Why do people quit salmon angling? –a study of lapsed anadromous anglers in Norway

Salmon angling is a substantial contribution to the nature based tourism economy in Norway. The last years’ river runs of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) has been reduced, and strict harvest regulations have been enforced.... [ view full abstract ]

Salmon angling is a substantial contribution to the nature based tourism economy in Norway. The last years’ river runs of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) has been reduced, and strict harvest regulations have been enforced. Simultaneously, the number of anglers has declined significantly. Compared to the 2012 season, there was a reduction of -13 % (-10 000 anglers) in the 2013 season. According to substitution theory and theory of constraints and facilitation in angling, we suspect several factors work in concert. The current resource situation in Norwegian rivers may have caused less motivated anglers quit fishing. Secondly, as fish stocks in the rivers are decreasing, more strict harvest regulations have been enforced. Atlantic salmon in Norway are managed by conservation limits and regulations are implemented if the spawning target may not be reached. Strict regulations may have similar effect on more consumptive oriented anglers than those willing to practice C & R. Thirdly, anglers may switch to other species if resource situation or access to the resource is reduced. To investigate the main reasons a significant number of anglers not has bought the national fishing license, we conducted a survey to active anglers, and those who has been out of the game since 2012 season. Personal constraints and substitutes like trout fishing was important factors. Lapsed anglers consistently rated the relative importance of salmon fishing lower than active anglers, compared to other recreational activities. Recreation and socialize with friends was the most important motives for angling in both groups. For lapsed anglers, it was more important to socialize than experience a challenging fight with the fish, whereas for active anglers this pattern was the opposite. Active anglers was also more satisfied with the overall fishing experience, then number of anglers on the beat and the number of fish they caught. Lapsed anglers was also less satisfied with the current fishing regulations than the active ones. We address different actions measures to make lapsed anglers go fishing in the future. Currently lapsed anglers not are permanently lost, and the majority have intentions to re-engage in this activity in the future.