Case Study Overview

​The project case study in Detroit, Michigan used focus group discussions to understand the experiences of urban shore fishers. The case study included perspectives of fishers across racial and ethnic groups and captured the benefits different fishers derive from the Detroit River and the barriers that restrict their access to those benefits

Preliminary Results

We found that for many recreational fishers in Detroit, fishing is about more than fun. Fishing provides an important food source for many recreational fishers. Its importance varies between fishers and can be related to cultural significance, connection to nature, connection to family/ancestors and community, knowledge over origin and handling of food, freshness, taste, species preferences, and or food security. A key finding is that food is a key factor motivating many fishers’ participation in recreational fisheries and that many benefits, including physical and mental health benefits, are tied not only to fishing (i.e. catch and release) but also to processing and consuming locally caught fish. However, the focus groups discussions revealed several factors limiting access to the benefits associated with fishing for food in Detroit such as limited shoreline and pier access, restricted park hours, lack of facilities, poor water quality, and conflict with police and between groups of fishers.
This research has the potential to recenter food in recreational fisheries management.

Questions or for more information, contact:  Emma Rice ([email protected])