Abstract:

Recreational fishery remains a dynamically developing form of social activity in the world. Its socio-economic significance is considerably greater than that of commercial fishery, which particularly applies to highly developed countries. The article presents a case study of an area located in north-west Poland, where angling tourism is becoming an increasingly important part of its local economy and may constitute an opportunity / threat to the condition of the natural environment. An opinion survey applying the Focused Group Interview method has been conducted among people living in this area and involved in this activity. The results allow for the conclusion that the analysed area is of great value for angling tourism but does not have sufficient infrastructure. They additionally indicate some problems related to management and cooperation between stakeholders. The survey, moreover, reveals a growing level of environmental awareness among people involved in recreational fishery. As the respondents state, proper management, cooperation as well as promoting the area to be interesting for angling tourism and eliminating any negative factors related to this activity may positively affect the sustainable development and benefits for the inhabitants.