Catch-and-release regulations and paddlefish angler preferences

Abstract

This paper presents research on recreational paddlefish anglers' preferences for catch-and-release fishing. We used stated preference (SP) data from a choice experiment to identify the effect of a hypothetical catch-and-release regulation on fishing preferences, and revealed preference (RP) data to measure the desirability of actual paddlefish fishing locations. We then modeled the effects of catch-and-release regulations on location choice and participation in the Oklahoma fishery. Our results indicate that although anglers dislike catch-and-release, most directly affected by regulations will either continue fishing at their preferred site or switch to a site where harvesting is permitted. Our preferred model predicts two-thirds will continue to participate even if catch-and-release fishing is required statewide.

Keywords: Fishing; Nonmarket valuation; Overharvesting; Vulnerable species.