Angler segmentation using perceptions of experiential quality in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park

Abstract

This study investigated the efficacy of segmenting anglers using their perceptions of trip quality in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park (GBRMP). Analysis revealed five segments of anglers whose perceptions differed on trip quality.We named the segments: slow action, plenty of action, weather sensitive, gloomy gusses, and ok corral and assessed variation among them with respect to gender, fishing experience, targeting particular fish species, motivations, and satisfaction. There were limited significant differences across the motivation dimensions while the satisfaction dimensions had the largest variation. Despite insignificant differences among catch propensity motivations and overall lower mean values, catch-related outcomes had the greatest variance among segments in the satisfaction dimension. This kind of information can be useful for marine park fisheries managers who need to take into account both generalized angler data and local baseline data that reflects the specific geographic context when creating fisheries policies.