New Volunteer Angler Surveys Encourage Citizen Input

Reporting Helps Manage State’s Fishing Resources

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is launching new mobile-friendly volunteer angler surveys, making it easy to turn a fishing trip into scientific research by submitting catch data right from a phone.

The survey is a simple tool where volunteers provide valuable information to department biologists such as species caught, estimated size and range. This input helps inform managers as they develop, plan and implement activities and seasons like trout stocking.

“With the use of these surveys we can see this data in near real-time,” Fishing and Boating Services Director David Blazer said. “Incorporating a survey gives the angler a direct link to the department right from the site of the catch.”

Volunteer surveys have been an important part of fisheries management in Maryland for decades. The department’s artificial reef initiative, freshwater fisheries and striped bass programs have begun upgrading to mobile-friendly methods.