Angler characteristics and temporal trends in live baitfish use and release: The case of Ontario, Canada

Abstract Objective Live baitfish use is common among recreational anglers, and live baitfish release poses ecological risks to ecosystems. The frequency of these behaviors may vary among diverse angler groups. We sought to identify temporal trends and angler characteristics associated with these behaviors. Methods We used data from periodic large-scale angler surveys in Ontario, Canada, on the frequency of live baitfish use and release, along with numerous angler characteristics, including age, region, and preferred target species. We used Elastic Net regressions to identify temporal trends as well as associations between angler characteristics and the frequency of live baitfish use and release. Results The percentage of anglers who often used live baitfish declined from 36% in 2005 to 28% in 2020, and release rates among live baitfish users declined by 5% from 2010 to 2020. Despite this, 19% of live baitfish users released live baitfish in 2020, so substantial ecological risks persist. Live baitfish use was most frequent among anglers from northern Ontario, anglers who ice fished, and anglers who targeted Walleye Sander vitreus or Yellow Perch Perca flavescens, whereas live baitfish release was most likely among Canadian residents from outside Ontario and anglers who did not have a preferred target species. Conclusions Live baitfish release declined over time, but ecological risks persist from release behavior. Accounting for angler heterogeneity in live baitfish use and release could improve the effectiveness of education and management strategies aimed at further mitigating ecological risks.