National survey shows signifcant benefts of rec fshing

A national social and economic survey of recreational fshers has shown that one in fve Australian adults participate in recreational fshing every year, improving wellbeing and contributing 100,000 jobs and $11 billion to the Australian economy.

The National Social and Economic Survey of Recreational Fishers, jointly conducted by ABARES, the University of Canberra and the Australian Recreational Fishing Foundation, is the frst national survey of its type in over 20 years.

ABARES Executive Director, Dr Jared Greenville, said the survey provides a contemporary picture of recreational fshing in Australia, including information on participation rates, as well as the contribution to the economy and society.

“A total of 4.2 million or one in fve adult Australians were estimated to participate in recreational fshing each year. The number of recreational fshers has increased since 2000 as the population has also increased, however the proportion of fshers has remained relatively stable overall,” Dr Greenville said.

“Australians were estimated to spend 28 million days fshing each year. While most recreational fshers fsh fewer than fve days a year, a small proportion fsh more than 52 days a year.

“Recreational fshing was estimated to contribute over 100,000 jobs and over $11 billion per year (including direct and indirect contributions) to the Australian economy.

“Recreational fshers were found to have, on average, higher levels of wellbeing than non-fshers, and those who fsh more often have higher wellbeing. Recreational fshing appeared to support positive social connections, nature connection, relaxation and can help achieve recommended levels of physical activity.

“The survey results also showed that most Australians have a positive outlook on recreational fshing, with 79% of Australian adults considering recreational fshing to be an acceptable activity.

“Recreational fshers also contribute to environmental stewardship by picking up rubbish when out fshing, while some participate in habitat restoration activities or donate to organisations trying to improve aquatic health.”

Managing Director of the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation (FRDC), Dr Patrick Hone, said recreational fshing is an important part of Australian culture and contributes to our health and wellbeing.

“Timely research on recreational fshers is critical to informing fsheries management in a changing climate,” Dr Hone said.