| Summary: | 57 pgs. Anglers who purchased a texas saltwater fishing stamp during its first year of issuance between January 1 and July 31, 1986 were sent a mail survey inquiring about their general demographics, attitudes toward management tools, fishing motivations, species preferences and annual expenditures. Two-thirds of Texas saltwater anglers responding were residents of Texas coastal counties. Nearly 45% have been fishing in saltwater for over 20 years. Most (44%) fished in saltwater 13 or fewer days the previous year. About 15% of anglers reported fishing outside of Texas. Anglers were supportive of stocking fish in saltwater and minimum size limits as management tools and were most opposed to "slot limits" and the prohibition of certain types of bait. "For relaxation", "To be outdoors", and "To get away from the regular routine" were ranked as the most important reasons for fishing; "Obtaining a trophy fish" and winning a trophy were ranked as lease important. Anglers agreed with the phrases "I usually eat the fish I catch" and "I like to fish where there are several kinds of fish to catch" and disagreed most with "I want to keep all the fish I catch" and "I usually give away the fish I catch." Spotted seatrout (Cynoscion nebulosus), red drum (Scaenops ocellatus), and flounder (Paralichthys lethostigma or P. albiqutta) were the most sought fishes by Texas saltwater anglers. Most saltwater fishing items bought by respondents were purchased in Texas and used predominantly for saltwater fishing. On average, Texas anglers spent approximately $1,500/year in Texas for saltwater fishing gear and equipment. http://gbic.tamug.edu/request.htm
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