Oklahoma Trout License Holder Survey (2002)
ODWC conducted a mail survey of trout license holders in the winter of 2002. Nearly one thousand (943) resident and non-resident trout license holders completed the survey, providing information about their trout fishing activities, preferences and satisfaction. Presented below are responses to some of the questions presented on the survey.
All but a few of the 2001 trout license holders surveyed actually fished for trout in Oklahoma last year. The average trout angler fished for trout 11 days in Oklahoma.
Most trout anglers caught between 3 and 6 trout on a typical Oklahoma trout fishing day during 2001. [Click on graphic to view.]
Trout license holders were asked to consider a list of potential reasons to explain why they did not fish for trout more often. Of those offered, the biggest problem faced was the distance to the trout areas.
Oklahoma's trout anglers used a variety of baits, but commercial bait was the most popular.
Trout anglers tended to harvest some trout and release others, rather than exclusively practicing catch-and-release or exclusively keeping trout.
Catching many trout was more important than catching big trout for most of the trout license holders surveyed.
Most trout anglers were willing to pay $10 for their trout license (currently $7.75) if the Department could provide more trout or bigger trout, whichever was their preference from the previous question.
ODWC has considered developing Trophy Trout Zones, which would be specific sections of the lower Illinois and lower Mountain Fork Trout Areas with special regulations. These are the only areas that can support trout year-round and can be actively managed for trout. Trout license holders were most supportive of Trophy Trout Zones that included minimum size limits, and least supportive of Zones that restricted anglers to artificial lures and flies.
Trout license holders were most satisfied with the time spent enjoying nature while trout fishing, relaxation experienced while trout fishing, and the time spent with family and friends.
The most popular ODWC trout areas were the lower Illinois River, lower Mountain Fork River, and Blue River.
Overall, Oklahoma's trout license holders were satisfied with the trout program.
If you have questions about the Oklahoma Trout Fishing Questionnaire, please contact Andrea Crews at acrews@odwc.state.ok.us or (405) 522-0769.
Last updated 7/11/02.