The objective of the survey, which will commence in April 2012 and run throughout the year, is to establish the current volume and value of domestic and overseas recreational angling in the country.
Coarse, sea and game anglers will all be invited to participate in what is described as Ireland’s most comprehensive angling survey undertaken in decades. The results will inform Inland Fisheries Ireland and its tourism partners in respect of the business of angling in Ireland and also enable improved strategic planning and decision-making in terms of product development and marketing.
Minister of State for Natural Resources Fergus O’Dowd said:
“Anglers are the key to this survey, they know the resource and they understand the importance of sustainability. What anglers contribute to Ireland’s economy is unknown but I am certain that it is significant.
Angling takes place in every river and lake in Ireland and all around our coastline. There is no town or village in Ireland that doesn’t have anglers.
It is imperative that the inland fisheries and sea angling resources are managed in the best way possible to ensure enjoyment for our local and visiting anglers, sustainable jobs in rural communities and maximising its potential to add to Ireland’s economy. Getting the right information from those most involved will greatly assist in improving the angling product.”
The survey will be in two parts: a household survey and a survey of recreational anglers which will commence in April. Anglers will be met at fishing locations throughout Ireland and invited to participate either on the spot or, if preferred, at a later date by telephone or online.
