World's Largest Angling Mental Health Study

A significant New Zealand study of nearly 1,900 anglers, the largest of its kind globally, has shown that fishing can significantly boost wellbeing and mental health.

According to the study published in the international journal Leisure Sciences, active anglers were 52% less likely to report psychological distress or thoughts of self-harm.

Fish & Game New Zealand, in collaboration with Dr Shyamala Nada-Raja, University of Otago, and independent researcher Paul Garbett, led the research examining the link between recreational fishing and mental health. 

The research used validated clinical assessment tools to demonstrate that active anglers were 52% less likely to report moderate-to-severe psychological distress and thoughts of self-harm, and 46% were less likely to experience moderate-to-severe anxiety.

Dr Nada-Raja, a wellbeing and suicide prevention researcher from the University of Otago, said the findings could reshape approaches to mental health support.

"What we're seeing here is evidence that nature-based interventions like trout fishing could serve as valuable complements to traditional mental health treatments," Dr Nada-Raja said.

"Some people who might not access conventional counselling services may find heading out to a river for a few hours both appealing and beneficial."

Dr Nada-Raja said another special thing about the study was it was essentially one of the largest studies focused on men’s mental health and wellbeing done in New Zealand.

“By seeking information about angling and its benefits we have learned a lot about the mental health and wellbeing of men from all walks of life as they were the majority of participants.”

The research identified specific elements enhancing mental health outcomes, including water contact through wading, fishing with companions, and physical activity involved in accessing fishing locations.

Importantly, the benefits remained consistent across gender and ethnic groups, including New Zealand European and Māori participants.

Otago University Professor of General Practice Tim Stokes said: “The research is internationally significant as nations worldwide grapple with declining mental health.”

The research arrives as New Zealand faces concerning mental health trends, with psychological distress rates rising from 4.6% of the population in 2011 to 11.9% in 2023.

Mental Health Awareness Week 2025 in New Zealand will be held from Monday, 6 October to Sunday, 12 October 2025. The theme is Top Up Together.

For study details, click here.

-    Fish & Game NZ