Recreational sea angling and marine conservation zones

A baseline study of the fish species targeted by Recreational Sea Angling (RSA): their biology and distribution, angling techniques used and implications with respect to Marine Conservation Zones (MCZ)

This project funded by Natural England has two parts:

1. A literature review will be carried out to assemble and synthesise data on popular angling species, their geographic ranges, habitat preferences, relevant aspects of biology and behaviour and regional angling practices. This will provide an information base with which Natural England can elaborate the implications of interactions between RSA and potential target fish species in relation to the aims and management of MCZs.
2. Surveys of recreational sea anglers will be carried out around the coast by interview and mail, consisting of a questionnaire consisting of 3 sections to capture information regarding:
3. 1. species and methods,
   2. anglers attitudes to conservation and MCZs,
   3. acceptability of different management measures.

Cefas is carrying out surveys in the Northeast, the Northwest and the Southeast during Juanuary 2009. If you fish in one of these areas and wish to complete the questionnaire on-line then please do so before 16^th February 2009.

These surveys will provide information on angling as well as providing an opportunity for anglers to make their views on MCZs known. The survey has now been closed, and we are compiling the results.