Angler Perspectives on Walleye Management

Abstract

The need to incorporate demographic and sociological data into fishery management programs has been widely recognized, and data from many statewide and national surveys are now available. Most studies of anglers have not addressed differences in characteristics, attitudes, and behavior that exist among angler types, however. The objectives of my study were to describe the opinions of anglers on the relative importance of various factors in promoting good and poor fishing for walleyes Stizostedion vitreum. I surveyed attendees at walleye fishing seminars and I use the results as a basis for discussing walleye angler perceptions. I also describe walleye angler subgroups, based on my observations and communications with anglers, and I discuss them in light of survey results. Good habitat was rated the most important factor for good walleye fishing. Size limits, bag limits, and natural conditions were also rated important. Respondents rated introductory stocking, seasonal closures, and water-level management least important. Poor water quality, inappropriate size or bag limits, and natural conditions were considered the most important contributors to poor walleye fishing. Six walleye angler subgroups are occasional anglers, generalist anglers, tourist anglers, lake residents, walleye specialists, and professional walleye anglers. I characterize subgroups by differences in fishing frequency and dedication to angling, attitudes toward resource conservation, relationship to management agencies, and understanding of management strategies, economic impacts, and potential effects on walleye populations. Management plans that incorporate angler attitudes and seek to inform walleye angler subgroups about the rationale for actions or regulations will be more likely to succeed socially as well as biologically. Increased communication between resource users and managers will expedite effective management.