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Steve Sarley: Angling trends in Illinois, and why I believe fishing license sales slump

According to research into fishing license sales, 80% of fishing licenses sold in Illinois since 2006 have been purchased by male anglers. This is despite the fact that the number of females interested in fishing has grown. (Photo courtesy of Pamela Sites)

Who is and isn’t fishing in Illinois? What are the ages and gender of current anglers? Where do anglers live throughout the state? Why are fewer people buying fishing licenses over time?
According to a recent article in the Outdoor Illinois Wildlife Journal, DNR has found that the average license holder is getting older, and the average age of people going fishing has increased. Another finding is that men have purchased about 80% of licenses since 2006.

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