A Statewide Assessment of Florida Freshwater Anglers: Motivations, Preferences, Attitudes, and Value Orientations

In this study, I conducted a mixed-mode survey of Florida freshwater anglers using a stratified random sample of freshwater license holders. The survey assessed motivations to fish, fishing preferences, attitudes towards management issues and a measure of value orientations. Preliminary results indicate significant differences in motivations to fish, with outdoor and nature related motivations being most important. Motivations and fishing preferences also differed significantly between largemouth bass (LMB) anglers and other anglers. Non- LMB specific anglers were more likely to harvest fish and were less likely to prefer targeting trophy sized fish. Respondents believed non-native species negatively impacted sportfish and had positive views on stocking. About 1/3 of LMB anglers reported that they bed fished but general angler attitudes towards the behavior were slightly negative. Most of the views on tournament fishing were neutral, but respondents felt that tournaments positively impact local economies. Anglers had significantly different composite scores of value orientations indicating higher bio-centric than anthropocentric values. Results of this study can enhance management efforts and help agencies better understand the views of recreational anglers.