APAIS Program
The NOAA Fisheries Marine Recreational Information Program’s Access Point Angler Intercept Survey (APAIS) is the primary method used to collect recreational saltwater fishing data on the Atlantic Coast. Rhode Island Marine Fisheries staff have been conducting the survey since 2016. Prior to that, a subcontractor selected by the federal government conducted the survey. The change to state conduct of the survey was prompted by the fact that states prior to RI that had taken over APAIS saw measurable improvement in the quality of the data generated from the survey. The public’s perception of the survey in these states also improved as a result of the new local flavor of the MRIP survey.
If an Angler is selected by one of our interviewers, they are asked a short list of question about their fishing practices and demographics. The demographic information is used to validate the results of the survey. The information collected during an interview is not shared with any person or organization not involved in the survey. Any data derived from these interviews is provided to the general public, it is presented in a manner that removes any specific information related to the angler.
The program begins every March and run until December 31 annually. The goal is to complete over 589 assignments from shore, private/rental and charter boat modes. This doesn’t include the additional 50 at sea-intercept sampling assignments, which will be carried out during the same time period.
The RIDMF is vested in increasing the quality and quantity of the data collected from our important recreational fisheries, and committed to improving our outreach with our recreational saltwater community. Staff hired and trained by RIDMF to be out in the field in direct contact with the recreational fishing community should help achieve our goals by fostering more acceptance of the survey. The Fisheries Interviews are listed below. If you see them out there feel free to say hello and participate in the recreational survey. Together we can become true partners in the collection of this critical marine recreational fisheries data. Better data, Better fishing.
I was hired by RI Marine fisheries in October of 2015 as the lead Biologist for the APAIS in RI. Prior to that, I served for over a decade as the Rhode Island Advisor to the ACCSP and sat on the Recreational Technical Committee. Additionally, I operated my own fishing tackle and reel repair in Fall River MA for 39 years. I graduated from UMass Dartmouth with a BS in Physics. Some of my hobbies include shore fishing in Rhode Island, cooking and weather forecasting.
Growing up In the Ocean State, I have always been drawn to the water. I am a Fisheries Technician for Marine Fisheries, and this is my fourth year working on the Access-Point Angler Intercept Survey. In 2015 I graduated from the University of Rhode Island with a BS in Marine Biology. I am a recreational angler, and I surfcast everywhere from Rocky Point in Warwick to the SW Point on Block Island. So, keep an eye peeled for me when you fish, I may want to talk to you about your recreational fishing habits and measure your catch!
I grew up loving to fish in CT and that lead me to study Aquaculture and Fisheries Studies at the University of Rhode Island. I do this job because I love to fish, and I want my children to be able to grow up the same way I did.
I am a recent graduate of the University of Rhode Island with a bachelors in Marine Biology. I joined the RI APAIS program to further my experience in this field and to learn more about the Rhode Island fisheries industry.
I am a senior at the University of Rhode Island. I am graduating in the Spring with a Bachelor's degree in Marine Biology. In my spare time I enjoy scuba diving and reading a good book on the beach. I am excited to further my knowledge in the field by being an APAIS Fisheries Technician getting hands on experience and being able to work with the public. Being able to educate people and collect data for fisheries across RI is so important for the future of our oceans!
I received my Bachelor's degree in Marine Biology and minor in Chemistry from the University of Rhode Island. My primary interests are in field ecology and conservation. Being an APAIS Field Interviewer allows me to pursue my interests because I have the opportunity to collect data in the field while interacting with a wide range of people. When I am not on site, I enjoy volunteering at the New England Aquarium, spending time with family, and exploring our coastlines.
I was born and raised here in Rhode Island and graduated from URI with a BS in Marine Biology. Although I have never had a straight answer for the "What do you want to be when you grow up?" question, I have never wavered from the mentality that if my job is not connected to the ocean, then I'm not interested. I joined the APAIS program for three reasons. One, to be a part of the collection of data which I believe to be incredibly important for the sustainment and protection of our oceans' resources. Two, to further my knowledge and understanding of the recreational fisheries industry. And three, to simply learn more about fishing and the species found around my home state. I do not have a lot of spare time but when it arises I like to spend it kayaking, reading, or working on my truck.
I go to the University of Rhode Island and I study Wildlife Conservation Biology and Aquaculture and Fisheries Science. I joined the APAIS Project to gain more experience with my majors.