Methodological, conceptual and sampling practices in surveying recreational fisheries in the Nordic countries – experiences of a valuation survey

The planning and initial phases of a joint Nordic project for the valuation of recreational fisheries is described. The economic value of recreational fisheries was taken to include non-market value as well as the traditional market value. The design of the survey was similar for each country so as to facilitate future comparison. However, initially there were difficulties in defining categories of recreational fishermen in the different countries. Other background information also had to be adapted to national circumstances. National population registers were used as the sampling frames. The effect of this on the responses from a valuation survey is discussed. Accessibility to population register data varies by country and so do possibilities for random sampling. Legal constraints were faced when implementing a centralised mailing system.