Perceptions of climate vulnerability for subsistence inland fisheries in the United States

Fisheries
By: , and 

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Abstract

Globally, inland fisheries are important sources of food, particularly for some communities where fishing is socially or culturally important or where local community economics require families to find cheap sources of food. However, little information specific to subsistence inland fisheries and their dependent communities is available for the United States, especially for non-Indigenous populations. This study reports on a national survey of 600 fishery managers, fishers, and other relevant actors, examining current perceptions of subsistence fishing activities and their potential role in climate vulnerability. Findings suggest that the hidden contributions of fish harvests to food often go unreported, masked by a fuzzy boundary between recreational and subsistence activities. Respondents reported that fisheries are threatened by pollution and the compound implications of climate change. These fisheries may contribute more food to vulnerable communities than recognized, which merits increased consideration of subsistence fishers in climate adaptation planning.

Publication type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Title Perceptions of climate vulnerability for subsistence inland fisheries in the United States
Series title Fisheries
DOI 10.1093/fshmag/vuaf054
Edition Online First
Publication Date August 13, 2025
Year Published 2025
Language English
Publisher Oxford University Press
Contributing office(s) National Climate Adaptation Science Center
Description vuaf054
Additional publication details