The power of online communities: How social media is influencing hunting and fishing tourism

Hunting and fishing tourism have long attracted enthusiasts worldwide, serving as both recreational activities and essential sources of protein, particularly for rural communities. However, unsustainable hunting practices and unregulated trade have increasingly threatened wildlife populations, pushing several species toward extinction. This study examines the role of online communities and social media in shaping the behaviors, perceptions, and practices of hunting and fishing tourism, exploring how these platforms can influence both positive and negative outcomes in wildlife conservation and cultural preservation. The research utilizes a mixed-methods approach, combining content analysis of social media platforms with interviews from key stakeholders, including hunters, fishers, conservationists, and tourism operators. By analyzing trends and discussions within online communities, the study identifies patterns of influence and cultural shifts related to hunting and fishing tourism. The findings indicate that social media has a dual impact on hunting and fishing tourism. While it has helped raise awareness about sustainable practices and conservation efforts, it has also inadvertently promoted overhunting through the glamorization of hunting trophies and unregulated trade. The power of online communities lies in their ability to rapidly spread both positive and negative behaviors, making them a critical factor in the future of wildlife conservation. Social media and online communities are potent tools that can either exacerbate the threats facing wildlife populations or serve as platforms for promoting sustainable hunting and fishing practices. To mitigate the risks, it is essential to harness the positive influence of these platforms by encouraging responsible behaviors and supporting conservation-focused content. Effective regulation and cultural education through social media are crucial for ensuring the long-term sustainability of hunting and fishing tourism.

کلیدواژه ها:

Sport Tourism ، Hunting tourism ، Fishing tourism ، Social media ، Online communities ، Wildlife conservation ، Sustainable tourism