The Recreational value of Atlantic salmon angling under different fishing regulations

Abstract

AbstractAtlantic salmon, Salmo salar L., stocks worldwide have dwindled, and stricter recreational fishing regulations have been implemented. This study estimates the recreational value of salmon fishing under different regulatory schemes and identifies factors explaining changes in net economic value of sport fishing. A Contingent Valuation mail survey in the Verdal River, Norway, asked anglers their willingness‐to‐pay for increased fishing expenditures or willingness‐to‐accept compensation in reduced fishing expenditures, to estimate recreational value. The average annual recreational value per angler decreased under stricter regulations from about €420 (in 2007–2009) to €280 (2010–2012) to €180 for the future scenario (2013–2015). Although an overall net decline in recreational value was found with stricter regulations, anglers have heterogeneous preferences. Anglers with non‐catch motives or high place attachment have higher recreational value with stricter regulations than others. If stricter regulations remain over time, younger, less consumptive‐oriented anglers would probably dominate the fishery.