Surveys of recreational anglers reveal knowledge gaps and positive attitudes towards manta ray conservation in Florida

Abstract

Abstract South Florida has a significant number of recreational anglers, and some shore‐based fishing sites overlap with habitat for juvenile manta rays. Although manta rays are prohibited from harvest in Florida, they are frequently seen foul‐hooked or entangled in fishing line. Recreational anglers (n = 198) were surveyed at piers and inlet jetties in Palm Beach County, Florida, USA to assess their knowledge of and actions and attitudes towards manta rays. Analysis of the responses revealed that while most anglers could identify a manta ray (66.7%) and expressed no interest in casting at (93.4%) or catching a manta ray (95.5%), they lacked knowledge about threats to mantas, as well as their conservation and protected status. Surveyed anglers overwhelmingly supported manta ray conservation (82.3%) and environmental protection (98.0%). Results indicate pier and inlet anglers are not using tackle strong enough to land a large ray to remove fishing gear, therefore it is recommended that outreach focuses on preventing recreational fishery interactions with manta rays, encouraging use of environmentally friendly tackle, and fostering engagement with anglers as citizen scientists. These results can inform the design of outreach materials aimed at closing knowledge gaps and encouraging best practices. Positive attitudes towards the environment and existing neutral behaviours towards manta rays indicate an opportunity to shift the behaviour of shore‐based anglers in this area in support of manta ray conservation.