Characteristics of Recreational Anglers in the Blackwood Estuary, a Popular Tourist Destination in Southwestern Australia

Abstract

Recreational anglers were interviewed in the Blackwood Estuary, Western Australia, to ascertain demographics, spatial and temporal patterns of use, expenditures, and attitudes to conservation and fisheries management. Although almost half of the angling groups encountered were tourist families staying in caravan parks, most anglers were male, 31–45 years old, with relaxation as the primary motive for fishing. On average, boat-based anglers fished more frequently than shore-based anglers and locals fished more frequently in the Blackwood Estuary than tourists. Expenditures by anglers on bait, tackle, and capital equipment were considerable. Although support for biodiversity conservation measures and fisheries management regulations was high, noncompliance with minimum size limits was common and further education of anglers appears to be necessary. The study has shown that for fisheries management purposes, any creel survey of the Blackwood Estuary should ensure that local anglers and boat-based anglers are adequately surveyed.