Cluster-based multinomial logistic regression analysis of saltwater anglers' concerns of marine environmental threats

Abstract

This study utilised cross-sectional data extracted from the 2013 national saltwater angler survey to examine saltwater anglers' concerns to the threats of marine environment, to identify groups exhibiting common patterns of responses, and to examine the association between socio-demographic characteristics and the groups identified. Concerns of marine environmental threats from these participants were examined through factor analysis which identified three reliable factors. Cluster analysis was employed to identify three prominent groups. Statistical tests were employed to investigate the association between socio-demographic characteristics, including age, gender, income level, educational level, region of the respondent, and the saltwater angler groups identified. Results of this study may provide insight regarding the concerns of marine environmental threats from saltwater anglers as an indicator of potential participation and behaviour of saltwater recreational fishing activities.