Survey of Florida marine baitfish retailers: Assessment of wholesale supply and the market potential for cultured pinfish and pigfish

Abstract The marine recreational fishing industry in Florida has an economic impact of $7.6 billion dollars, which includes the expenditures of its 2.4 million licensed anglers. Interest in developing aquaculture techniques for marine baitfish species have served as an impetus for recent research; however, market data in Florida has not been investigated and described in over two decades. The objectives of this survey were to evaluate and describe the live marine baitfish market for cultured pinfish (Lagodon rhomboides) and pigfish (Orthopristis chrysoptera) in Florida. A survey was designed and distributed to 280 bait retailers in 37 coastal counties of Florida. The survey was developed to gather information vital to market evaluation. Survey questions focused on baitfish species sold, shortcomings of wild baitfish, preferred baitfish characteristics, perception of aquaculture and cultured bait, and specific questions with an emphasis on quantities and purchasing habits for pinfish and pigfish. A total of 119 surveys representing 31 counties were returned for a 42.5% response rate. The results of this market survey will serve as a valuable resource for current and potential producers who market live marine baitfish to retailers throughout coastal Florida.