Understanding Differences Between Organized and Nonorganized Anglers in an Urban Environment (Berlin, Germany) as a Prerequisite to Facilitate the Social Capital of Angler Organizations

Authors: Phillip Freudenberg and Robert Arlinghaus

In the private fishing rights systems of Germany, angler organizations and the social capital held within these groups fulfill a crucial role in managing fisheries resources. Little is known about the differences in the human dimensions of organized and nonorganized anglers that would allow insights paramount for recruiting new angling cub members, particularly in urban environments. The present exploratory study was based on n = 1061 urban anglers responding to a mail survey in the German capital of Berlin. Half of the responding anglers (58 %) were members of a fishing club. Organized and nonorganized differed with regard to a number of characteristics and behavioral patterns. Organized anglers comprised the more committed angler segment and were significantly more experienced, more avid and more consumptive than nonorganized anglers. Motivations of both anglers segments were comparable, with non-catch aspects of the fishing experience constituting the main angling motives. However, organized urban anglers placed significantly more importance on social and challenge/thrill aspects of the fishing experience. In terms of management preferences, organized anglers significantly more often suggested promotion of angling for school-age children than non-organized anglers. Moreover, stocking of fish was more often proposed by organized anglers as a means to increase angling quality. It was concluded that organized and nonorganized anglers constitute two different angler segments within the urban environment of Berlin. Differential marketing strategies tailored to the characteristics of either organized or nonorganized anglers are needed to successfully recruit and retain their angling interest and facilitate social capital building of angling organizations.