Tseng, Y.-P.; Huang, Y.-C., and Ditton, R., 2012. Developing a longitudinal perspective on the human dimensions of recreational fisheries.

The purpose of this study is to demonstrate a longitudinal perspective on state-level recreational fisheries that could be used anywhere systematic angler surveys are conducted over time. With six angler surveys from Texas conducted over a 16-year time period, selected human dimension indicators of recreational fishing were analyzed with the index of qualitative variation (IQV) and Spearman rank-order correlation coefficient. Saltwater anglers demonstrated significant upward trends in household income, self-reported skill, preference for catching one particular species, and satisfaction with their fishing experiences. No significant downward trends were found. Although expected in some cases for various reasons, no significant trends were found in gender, baby boomer participation, racial/ethnic differences, years of fishing experience, and average annual days of saltwater fishing. Finally, this paper demonstrates the need for consistent human dimension questions over time in understanding the longitudinal perspective of recreational fisheries.