Wanted: Lapsed anglers

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Pete Grannis last week announced New York will join 30 states cooperating in a new effort to encourage lapsed anglers to buy a fishing license. Anglers who have not recently bought licenses will be sent targeted mailings reminding them to purchase a license and support fisheries management.

"The fishing in New York State is better than ever, but participation in the sport of fishing continues to decline both nationally and in New York," said Commissioner Grannis. "DEC is pleased to participate in this program, especially since it complements our I FISH NY efforts to increase angling participation in New York State."

A recent survey conducted by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service noted that the number of anglers fishing the freshwaters of New York State, not including the Great Lakes, declined 12 percent since 2001. The decline in resident angling in New York's Great Lakes was even greater -- dropping 41 percent since 2001.

The multi-state lapsed angler effort is being coordinated by the Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation (RBFF). Lapsed anglers are those that have purchased a license in previous years, but do not currently hold one. Studies have determined that just 15 percent of anglers renew their licenses every year for a five-year period. Also, just 44 percent purchased a license in one of those five years. There are currently estimated 12 million lapsed anglers in the United States. Research also indicates that these lapsed anglers are highly likely to renew their license if reminded.

DEC will employ a direct mail marketing effort to help reach approximately 155,000 lapsed anglers this year. The direct mail marketing program will employ an oversized postcard with a creative message encouraging anglers to buy their fishing license. Targeted lapsed anglers should receive the first postcard around May 1 and those who have not purchased their license will receive a second mailing in June.