Demographics and license buying trends of Oklahoma Anglers

Greg L. Summers
Oklahoma Fishery Research Laboratory, Oklahoma Dept of Conservation, 500 E. Constellation Norman, OK 73072, 405-325-7288, gregsumm@mmcable.com

Between 1995 and 1997, Oklahoma annual fishing license sales remained flat at slightly over 300,000 per year. Eighty five percent of the annual fishing license sales occurred prior to July 1 of each year. Females accounted for about 30% of the sales over this period. This was significantly higher than female hunting participants. The median age for licensed anglers was 37 years old. While census information indicated that 42% of Oklahoma's population was found in the metro Oklahoma City and Tulsa areas, Only 33% of the fishing license sales came from these locations. Between 1995 and 1996 only 53% of Oklahoma anglers renewed their fishing license with 55% renewing between 1995 and 1997. This suggests that more emphasis should be placed on marketing strategies directed toward license retention as well as looking for new participants. Several areas for potential license revenue increase are discussed.