Coupled natural-human systems are ecological systems where the natural system and human system have internal dynamics, but also reciprocal dynamics, with feedbacks between the natural and human components of the complex system. Florida is known as the “Fishing Capital of the World” due to its large and economically valuable recreational and commercial fishing industries, and the related ecotourism industry. Additionally, Florida’s unique coastal habitats such as seagrass beds, oyster reefs, and mangrove shorelines provide vital support for both prey and predatory fish species. A current trend in fishery management is integrating fishers into conservation initiatives and decision-making, but frequently there are inherent challenges balancing the wants and needs of the fishing community with sustainability, conservation, and management goals. To address this complex suite of issues, here I explored the interconnections and feedbacks among Florida’s fishing community, fish habitat, and fish populations. Spatially nested statistical models were used to assess and compare benthic habitat complex-prey-predator relationships in Tampa Bay. The results from this chapter advance our fundamental understanding of the myriad factors influencing fish populations in a spatio-temporal fashion. To gain insight into the understanding, knowledge, and opinions of the fishing community, I developed a graduate student led community research campaign and survey. With this information from the community, I explored community member attitudes and knowledge related to fishing regulations and environmental concerns, thereby producing new knowledge of community attitudes of how fishery and natural resources are managed and viewed.
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