In 2006, IFREMER, with the help of the polling institute BVA, implemented a national pilot study of recreational fishing. Taking into account all the different fishing methods, from shellfish gathering to offshore angling, including spear-fishing, this study was designed to provide estimates of (i) the number of recreational fishers in France, (ii) recreational fishing effort; (iii) catches and landings; (iv) the economic impacts of recreational fishing, and to develop a classification of recreational fishers. A two-part method was adopted: a random-digit-dialing (ROD) survey combined with an on-site survey. The data collected from telephone and on-site surveys were compared and then used in combination to provide a reliable estimate of this growing activity in France. Recreational fishers are estimated at around 2.5 million, with the total catch estimated at 24,000 t of fish and 3100 t of shellfish. Fishing expenditure was estimated at between 1200 and 2000 million euros.