Abstract

Recreational fisheries offer cultural, economic, and recreational benefits to communities worldwide, yet they often challenge the sustainable conservation of fish populations and aquatic ecosystems. This abstract explores a compelling case study that exemplifies the intricate task of managing recreational fisheries while preserving natural environments. The Smith River in Northern California serves as a prime example, known for its pristine waters, captivating landscapes, and abundant salmon and steelhead populations. As recreational fishing gained popularity, it brought about conservation challenges, including overfishing, habitat degradation, and conflicts with commercial fisheries.