Characteristics, preferences and perceptions of recreational fishers in northern Patagonia, Argentina

Abstract

This study aims to compare the characteristics, preferences and perceptions of fishers in the recreational fisheries of San Blas (SB), El Cóndor (EC) and La Ensenada (LE), using the roving creel survey technique. No difference was detected in fishers’ characteristics (age, years of fishing experience, occupation), but the number of visits made per year was lowest in SB, which is located furthest away from large cities. The three fishing sites also showed significant differences in expenditure per trip. An inverse correlation between expenditure and number of visits per year in relation to distance travelled was observed only in SB. Micropogonias furnieri was the main target species In SB and EC fisheries, and Odontesthes sp. was the main one in LE. Most fishers in LE reported that fish size had not varied over time, while in SB and EC they considered that fish size had decreased in recent years. In all three sites, however, there was agreement on the decreasing trend observed in the number of fish caught per fishing trip. Between 70 and 90% of fishers agreed that there should be restrictions through daily quotas and minimum size, and recognized chondrichthyans as threatened species. It is concluded that the three fisheries presented fairly dissimilar profiles, suggesting that Patagonian recreational fisheries need to be assessed on a local scale instead of using a one-size-fits-all strategy, in order to recognize their differences and implement appropriate management measures. Understanding the preferences, motivations and demands of fishers is important if we are to update current regulations and improve the management of recreational Patagonian fisheries. This will contribute to their preservation as a valuable ecosystem service without compromising natural resources.