The use of sampling weights in regression models of recreational fishing-site choices

Abstract

Improved methods for estimating saltwater recreational fishing catch and effort have been developed by the NOAA National Marine Fisheries Service. Sampling weights that account for a complex sample design in surveys of anglers are now available with NMFS catch and effort estimates. Previously, estimates of the economic value to anglers (known as the “willingness to pay”) for additional fish caught that were based on angler surveys did not typically account for the underlying complex sample design. In this study, a recreational-demand model was used for analysis of fishing site choices in the Gulf of Mexico in 2009 among private-boat anglers who target groupers (Epinephelus spp., Hyporthodus spp., or Mycteroperca spp.) or red snapper (Lutjanus campechanus). Different versions of the model were developed with and without accounting for the complex sample design. Results between the unweighted version and weighted versions of the model varied in estimates of catch between sites and the value anglers place on being able to catch and keep additional fish.