Programs - RFRI

About Our Programs

PRESENT

The RFRI is excited to share many of the successful and innovative projects that have been improving Louisiana’s fisheries science while merging it with the depth of the recreational fishing public, who in turn benefit from their participation in the management process. The RFRI has also developed ideas, processes, and software for a variety of related projects, and we invite you to learn more about their successful implementation of them. We welcome partners to join the RFRI in this new approach to conservation combined with the full outdoor experience of great times on the water with family and friends.

PAST

Through the grassroots efforts of our leadership and commitment from our partners, the programs that began almost two decades ago continue to produce vital habitat and educational benefits to anglers today. The programs of RFRI are firmly ingrained in its past. Below are programs that paved that foundation of education RFRI is proud to endorse.

A NEW APPROACH TO CONSERVATION

ALWAYS

The restoration of fish habitat and increased data collection of “citizen scientists” through past programs like the Bay Ronquille inshore artificial reef and TAG Louisiana allowed for the public’s direct participation in education and conservation. With new advances in technology, citizen scientists have more availability to this data and the ability to share their experiences than ever before. These same advances in technology have provided researchers with new ways to begin gathering data as well. Now anglers can “Fish with a Purpose”!

Our Programs

Tag It Louisiana Tournament

The RFRI has long been an integral part in the development of improved fishery data collection, fish habitat restoration, and the fostering of a catch and release, citizen-scientist driven movement amongst Louisiana’s recreational and tournament anglers. The partnership of recreational anglers and scientist help everyone conserve the resource while maintaining access to great times spent outdoors and on the water. A variety of projects have branched out from this common goal and each one has been successful in its focused goals. Learn more about our mission.

Anglers Almanac

Tag Louisiana

Outdoors & Education

In a time when technology often holds us captive, RFRI understands the importance of getting outside, being physically active, embracing teamwork, and connecting with nature and each other.

Habitat Enhancement

The creation of inshore reefs provides two main benefits: they assist in reducing coastal erosion and restore hard bottom and essential fish habitats where it had previously existed.

Marine Sport Fish Stocking

In Texas and Florida, supplemental, hatchery-based stocking, combined with standard management practices, has resulted in a successful and sustaining program of Red Drum enhancement.

Live Catch & Release Redfish Tournament

With low entry fees, tournaments allow anglers to fish close to home and compete for cash prizes while simultaneously giving back to the resource through tag and release fishing.

Tournament Management

Fishing tournaments continue to grow in popularity and diversity of formats, but putting them on has never been easier with the development of the RFRI Leaderboard software.

Fishial ID Challenge

RFRI has partnered with the Wye Foundation on the Fishial.AI Fish ID Project with the goal of making highly accurate fish identification “Fishial Recognition” possible.

Louisiana Sportfish Analysis

Fishing tournaments continue to grow in popularity and diversity of formats, but putting them on has never been easier with the development of the RFRI Leaderboard software.

RFRI Socio/Economic Survey

Get Involved

RFRI leads the way with novel ideas continuing to leave a legacy of leadership. Contact us for more information or to support current or future projects, please consider making a contribution.

WOULD YOU LIKE TO SUPPORT US?

ALL DONATIONS ARE TAX DEDUCTIBLE.

Managing the future of fishing in Louisiana is a monumental task and in order for the RFRI to tackle fisheries, habitat, and coastal restoration projects, funding is required. Your contributions will greatly protect, enhance and maintain the Gulf Coast Marine Fishery through science, education and public involvement.