Understanding and improving biosecurity among recreational anglers in Great Britain.

Recreational fishing with the principal motivation of leisure is associated with important economic, social, and conservation values. However, it is also a primary pathway of invasive non-native species and aquatic animal disease introduction and spread. Several studies have explored the overall biosecurity risk posed by recreational anglers based on self-reported behaviours and awareness of biosecurity campaigns. However, there has been little in-depth exploration of the characteristics of key stakeholders that are implementing biosecurity best practice and the barriers that prevent anglers from undertaking biosecurity measures in the field. This study addresses this knowledge gap, using an online questionnaire to collect information on angler socio-demographic characteristics, voluntary biosecurity behaviour, and barriers affecting the implementation of biosecurity best practices in Great Britain in 2018. Results indicated that cleaning behaviours vary considerably amongst anglers, with angling frequency and the number of pieces of equipment affecting how likely anglers were to clean and dry these items. High levels of disinfectant use were reported among anglers; potentially attributed to the concurrent advocation of disinfectant to prevent the spread of aquatic animal disease. Barriers affecting the implementation of correct cleaning behaviours included a combination of factors such as practicality, disability, lack of available information and individual values. These findings illustrate the importance for fishery managers, water companies and policymakers to tailor prevention measures and facilities for anglers to maximise practicality and encourage long-term implementation of best practice.