Understanding the Sportfishing Consumer

Research shows that not all anglers purchase a license year after year.  And, when it comes to vying for an angler’s recreational time, it is important to know the competition.  What are anglers doing in the years when they do not fish?  And, why did they choose to take time away from fishing to pursue another activity? 

With the support of ASA, and in collaboration with Responsive Management, Southwick Associates explores these and other questions to better understand the sportfishing consumer.  We find that the reasons why anglers say they are fishing less often are not always about a shift of interest away from fishing.  We also find that the activities competing for an angler’s time offer an opportunity for cross-over promotions into other outdoor recreational activities. The results will help improve efforts to increase fishing participation.