Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP)

The Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP) is a state-regional-federal partnership that develops, improves, and implements a network of surveys to measure total recreational fishing catch. Through these surveys, anglers and captains report the number of recreational fishing trips taken and the number of fish caught to NOAA Fisheries and our state and regional partners. When combined with commercial catch data, biological research, and direct observation of a fishery, these recreational catch and effort estimates help scientists and managers assess and maintain sustainable fish stocks. Our surveys provide reliable information to support effective and fair fisheries management.

Recreational fishing is a favorite American pastime. Protecting our ocean resources and safeguarding recreational fishing opportunities requires the cooperation and engagement of a broad network of partners, from saltwater anglers and marine scientists to stock assessors and fishery managers. We provide the scientifically sound recreational catch and effort estimates needed to maintain and enhance sustainable fishing opportunities.

We also help stakeholders understand how our survey methods produce reliable estimates of total recreational fishing participants, effort, and catch, and address state and regional needs and concerns about recreational catch and effort estimates.