Southwick Studies
Information is presented below on a landmark socio economic study that was known as the Southwick Study. At the time of this report it was the most comprehensive document of its type available on the value of the striped bass recreational fishery, especially as it compared to the commercial fisheries of the day. Since that time Fred Jennings PhD and board member of Stripers Forever has updated some of this information using the latest statistics available from NOAA. Currently Dr. Jennings is working on the latest information for the 2018 season. We will add this to the website as soon as it is available.
The Southwick Study was prepared for Stripers Forever, Inc. by highly-regarded wildlife socio-economist Rob Southwick of Southwick Associates. The report was also reviewed and critiqued by an array of recognized industry experts. The Southwick Study is unique in that it not only compares the relative economic values of commercial and recreational striped bass fishing, but it also takes the important step of determining what the socio-economic landscape would be like if commercial fishing for wild striped bass were to cease and the fishery managed purely for recreational/personal-use fishing. Additionally, the Southwick Study addresses the economic merits of replacing the commercial wild catch with aquaculture product.
You will find below links to view the full national study, and also MA, NY and MD state specific versions. Ordering information is at the bottom of the page.
SOUTHWICK NATIONAL STUDY ROAD MAP (click link to view PDF)
The Southwick Study Road Map is a 4 page summary document that serves two purposes. For super busy folks, it is a quick read that hits on the highlights of the full 64-page study. The Road Map utilizes helpful and attractive graphics to present the startling and important study conclusions. For folks who plan to read the full study, the Road Map serves as a guide and outline, pointing out where to find important information
SOUTHWICK NATIONAL STUDY – FULL REPORT (click link to view PDF)
The full Southwick Study is 64 pages, including the many charts and graphs, and an extensive bibliography. The many financial contributors that made the Southwick Study possible are listed inside the front cover. They range from industry giants like L.L.Bean, Orvis Corp. and Grady White Boats, to a number of fine organizations including the Coastal Conservation Association and the Rhode Island Saltwater Anglers Association. Also listed are approximately 100 individual contributors. Fishing for striped bass is an important recreation for over 3,000,000 Americans, and that level of participation has great economic effect. We think that this study will provide the reader with new information and insights on just how important the recreational fishery is and how many individuals are impacted by it. Dig in and enjoy it. When you are through, help us “Make It a Gamefish”.
TO ORDER PRINTED COPIES OF THE STUDY AND ROAD MAP:
Printed and saddle-stitched copies which include both the full study and the Road Map can be purchased by sending a check to the P. O. Box and address on the bottom of this page. The price, which includes mailing, is $6.00 for one copy and $3.50 for each additional copy ordered. This covers our cost of printing and mailing. We encourage supporters of gamefish status for striped bass to order additional copies to give to policy makers, both on the state and federal level, with whom they have a relationship. Copies of both the Road Map and the full study have been mailed to every Congressperson, U.S. Senator, state Governor, and state fishery executive from Maine to North Carolina.
