Division presenters summarized two informational studies — the statewide angler survey and the Blue Ribbon economic survey — telling the Central Region RAC that fishing is economically significant in Utah and that angler motivations emphasize solitude and diverse fishing opportunities.

Trena (division presenter) said the statewide angler survey found a median of 14 fishing trips per angler (the mean was 20, skewed by heavy‑use anglers) and that the per‑trip average spending reported in the study was about $187. She said the economic analysis used an input‑output model (IMPLAN was referenced) to estimate broader economic effects and reported roughly 18,000 jobs supported by fishing and multibillion‑dollar impacts to the state economy.

Why it matters: RAC members said the findings validate fisheries’ role in local economies and suggested the division provide the technical appendix or a brief explanatory note from the study’s economist so RAC members and the public can understand the multiplier methodology. Trena offered to share reports or ask the study’s author to provide a concise explanation for the RAC.

Other takeaways: survey respondents prioritize solitude and varied species opportunities; division staff said biology must temper social preferences (for example, some habitats will not support largemouth bass year‑round). Upcoming outreach and events highlighted by staff included a state‑fair fishing pond, an underwater kokanee livestream and a kokanee viewing event at Strawberry Reservoir on Sept. 20.

Public comments and reaction: a small number of online commenters were neutral or opposed to paying more fees; local sportsperson Ken Strong urged vigilance against unauthorized species introductions and noted a $5,000 reward the Sportsman for Fish and Wildlife group offered for convictions in illegal introductions.

Action: these items were informational; no RAC vote was required. RAC members requested access to the technical report and a plain‑language explanation of the economic model used.