The Role of Private Waters in Recruiting Anglers

In the United States, there are about 4.5 million small bodies of water ranging from 0.5 to 40 ha in surface area. The vast majority of these small impoundments are privately owned. Many contain quality fish populations and support considerable limited-access angling opportunities. Despite the exclusive nature of most private water bodies, more than one-third of all adult anglers fish annually in these systems. Unfortunately, data on anglers and angling activity on private waters is limited, so it is unclear what impact these systems have on the recruitment of new anglers. We explored the idea that private waters are providing youth angling opportunities, increasing fishing participation, and contributing to the recruitment of new anglers. An online survey of pond owners and managers was conducted using directed questions regarding youth angling access to private waters and the pond owner’s role in recruitment of youth anglers. Implications for angler recruitment, including increasing accessibility of private waters, will be discussed.