Abstract

Red Snapper (Lutjanus campechanus) and Greater Amberjack (Seriola dumerili) are two iconic reef fish species among recreational fishers in the Gulf of Mexico, as they are prized for being good tasting and their fight. These fisheries have also been subjected to multiple management changes in the last several years due to access and sustainability concerns. In January 2023, the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) implemented a new calibration measure for Red Snapper, resulting in changes to state quota limits. In March, NMFS announced the extension of an emergency rule for Greater Amberjack, which closed the May recreational fishing season. The perceptions held by recreational fishers that result from regulatory changes are rarely characterized using a longitudinal approach. To understand changing attitudes of recreational fishers, an online survey via a Qualtrics panel was conducted at two time points: June 2022 and August 2023. To determine who fishes for Red Snapper and Greater Amberjack, respondents were asked what reef fish species was most important for their fishing. Respondents also rated their satisfaction with population levels and current regulations of their target species and reef fish fisheries in general, as well as their level of influence of fishery management decisions. Satisfaction with reef fish regulations and influence on management decisions changed following the 2023 regulations. The results of these surveys can be used to better understand how recreational fishers perceive regulatory changes and inform more effective fishery management in the Gulf of Mexico.