AN article in Fish and Fisheries examines whether recreational angling is a conservation problem or a conservation action.
If recreational angling activities contribute to population-level consequences that are contrary to recovery strategies, then angling for endangered species would seem to be a poor option.
However, as revealed by several case-studies, there is much evidence that anglers are vocal and effective proponents of fish and habitat conservation, and for endangered species they are often the only voice when other stakeholders are not engaged.
Anglers may contribute directly to conservation actions via user fees (eg licences), philanthropic donations or by volunteering in research, education and restoration activities.
A risk assessment approach outlined in the paper may be used to determine when the benefits of angling for endangered species outweigh the risks.
For more information visit http:// onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/ faf.1207/abstract.