The Use of Trail Cameras to Assess Angler Use: Processing Time, Cost Effectiveness and Limitations

Angler surveys are rarely conducted on small, remote water bodies because they are very time consuming and relatively expensive.  However, anglers are one of the most important components when it comes to managing a fishery.  We wanted to track angling pressure in response to different management actions at two remote reservoirs in southeast Nebraska.  Therefore we used trail cameras as a less expensive and time consuming method (compared to standard creel surveys) in an attempt to capture this information.  Cameras were secured to trees at a height of 4-6 m, with locations strategically placed around each reservoir to maximize spatial range for each camera.  Reservoir visits were made every 2-3 months (depending on time of year) to download pictures, ensure cameras were functioning properly and change batteries if needed.  We analyzed the time consumed to collect the data, process the pictures as well as the operating costs of using trail cameras and compared them to standard creel survey time and costs.  Through our experiences, we also call attention to specific limitations the trail camera method has in regards to angler count data collection.  Ultimately, we recommend this method to the ever-growing toolbox of fisheries management techniques.