Use of Questionnaire Surveys in Forming Fishery Management Policy

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Abstract
The desirability of incorporating fishermen preferences into management decision making was identified. A questionnaire survey technique based on a random sample of residents was developed to obtain unbiased assessment of angler preference. The survey technique was tested in the Owasco Lake (New York [USA]) watershed. A random sample of 1092 Owasco Lake Basin residents was used to evaluate their preference for fishing and fishery management policies. The questionnaire was pre-tested for question effectiveness and clarity. A total of 794 completed forms were returned (73%). Effect of nonresponse was estimated through a phone survey of 60 nonrespondents. Of Owasco Lake Basin household''s 29% contained Owasco Lake fishermen. Of those who fished at Owasco, 21% preferred lake trout, 17% preferred rainbow trout, 15% preferred walleye and 47% other species. The most frequently cited reasons for fishing were for relaxation, to get outdoors, and for fun. The results represent an assessment of fishermen preference in the Owasco Lake locale and cannot be generalized to other areas. The questionnaire and sampling techniques that were developed can be used, with minor adaptations, in other recreational fisheries to obtain a systematic evaluation of preference that is far more reliable than casual contacts with sportsmen organizations or individuals.

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