Sources Policy

Last updated: August 2, 2026

Every measurable claim in our content should be supported by a reliable source. This page describes which sources we prefer and how we use them.

Preferred sources, in order

1. Government fish and wildlife agencies (e.g. state DNR/FWC, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service).
2. NOAA and equivalent official marine authorities.
3. Universities and extension services.
4. Peer-reviewed research.
5. Recognized conservation organizations.
6. Primary manufacturer documentation, for equipment-specific claims.
7. Reputable fishing publications, only when primary sources are unavailable.

How we use sources

• We record what each source supports and when it was accessed.
• We do not copy source wording.
• We do not cite a source for a claim it does not actually make.
• Where sources disagree or evidence is conditional, we say so.

Claims we treat with extra care

• Record sizes and ages — only from recognized record-keeping bodies or official agencies.
• Temperature, pressure, and other thresholds — presented as typical ranges, not absolutes, unless a source states otherwise.
• Fishing regulations — never stated as fact on this site. Regulations are location- and time-sensitive; always check your local official source before fishing.

Images

We use public-domain and Creative Commons–licensed images (with attribution where required), primarily from U.S. government agencies such as USFWS and NOAA. Each image credit appears with the image.

Questions

Questions about a specific claim or source? Email [email protected].