Assessing ecological efficiency, spatial spillovers, and configurational drivers of recreational fisheries in the United States

Abstract

This study employs an interdisciplinary integrative approach to systematically assess the spatiotemporal evolution, spatial spillover effects, and driving mechanisms of recreational fisheries ecological efficiency (RFEE) across U.S. coastal states. First, the non-radial Super-SBM model is utilized to measure RFEE levels, incorporating carbon emissions as an undesirable output, thereby enhancing the environmental adaptability of the evaluation. Second, social network analysis (SNA) is employed to reveal the structural relationships and centrality distribution of RFEE within interstate spatial networks. Further, the Spatial Durbin Model (SDM) is applied to identify the direct effects and spatial spillover pathways of factors such as population density, technological research and development, industry scale, and economic development on RFEE. Lastly, fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) is used to uncover the configurational paths of multiple interacting factors, identifying RFEE enhancement patterns such as “technological innovation and population agglomeration” and “locational advantages and resource optimization.” The findings highlight that technological advancement is the primary driver of ecological efficiency improvements, while increasing industrial concentration exerts a significant inhibitory effect on both local and neighboring areas' RFEE. Based on these insights, the paper proposes context-specific ecological management recommendations, emphasizing the adoption of a strategy combining “moderate scale expansion, decentralized layout, and cross-regional ecological compensation.” The research not only enriches the understanding of RFEE measurement and spatial diffusion mechanisms but also provides theoretical support and practical pathways for promoting the green, low-carbon transformation of tourism and sustainable fisheries governance.