Statistical Analysis and Modeling

Statistical analysis and modeling has long been used in science, industry and economics to shed light on trends, unambiguously answer questions and prove theories. Statistical analysis is also used by fisheries biologists to answer questions as to whether a lake or river's fish population is healthy and to develop weight-estimation formulas (more correctly models) to aid them in their work.

In all, statistics are a powerful tool in which to take relatively meaningless data and have it answer questions in concise terms that can then be used to help make decisions.

I have been using statistics and modeling in my job and formal education for nearly 20 years. It wasn't until I was asked by Doug Stange, Editor-in-Chief of In-Fisherman magazine, back in the fall of 2004 to do an article on world-record bass hoaxes that I realized the power of statistical models in the bass fishing industry. That conversation resulted in a new weight-estimation formula for record-class bass that has been published no less than 5 times since it was introduced in the spring of 2005. See Article

Since then, I have used statisitical analysis methods to assist my friends with improving the size of the bass in their ponds and also wrote a two-part article regarding the use of weight-based points systems vs. points-based points systems for tournament which dis-spelled the myth that cumulative weight over an entire season is then only fair method to award an Angler-of-the-Year trophy. See Article 1 and Article 2.

If you are in need of statistical analysis to assist you in making your pond a place where 5-pounders are plentyful or you need some help disecting your club tournament standings, please don't hesitate to email me.

Terry Battisti