Alaska Fishing Tours A Crucial Part Of The State Economy
There is probably no question in anyone’s mind about how important Alaska fishing tours are to the economic wellbeing of the entire state. In 2007 the Alaska Department of Fish and Game undertook a major study looking at the sport fishing industry. They found almost half a million people (residents and non-residents) purchased a fishing license in that year. These anglers went on to spend almost $1. 4 billion on hobby related expenditure. This related expenditure included travel, equipment, guides and accommodation.
The small town of Bethel, Alaska undertook a similar study in 2008. Fishing, both commercial and sport varieties play a significant economic role. This community is made up of around 6, 300 people is on the coast west of Anchorage.
The Bethel study found they had many of the sought after varieties of fish but there was a major element of potential not being realized. The services available and being provided to fishermen were not good enough. They identified the fact non-resident fishermen were big spenders and naturally spent much more than locals could or would. The idea of chasing repeat business was highlighted as was the need for far better accommodation choices. If the community wanted to get a bigger and better share of the fishing tour market in Alaskan visitor experience ratings had to increase.
The regulatory body, the Alaskan Department of Fish and Game has been promoting the idea guides need to be registered to ensure industry standards remain high. They are well aware that fishing tours are a major contributor to the Alaskan economy. The benefits of regulation in their minds will foster and maintain professionalism amongst guides. And the flow on effect from this is that Alaskan fishing tours will maintain their levels of viability.
One of the positive outcomes of licensing is an increase in the level of hard numerical data about fish stocks and activities. These are provided by log books maintained by the registered guides. This data will be useful for trends and for basing sensible decisions on.
One area that is emerging as an add-on benefit for fishing operators to pursue is the area of wildlife viewing. Although anecdotally this is a growing area there is little hard data to support these growth opportunity claims.
The fishing industry in Alaska is recognized as one of the best in the world. Alaska fishing tours are an important piece in the overall economic jigsaw.
To find out how to plan the best Alaska fishing tours be sure to visit: http://www.lureofalaska.com
Related posts:
