AbstractRecreational fishing holds substantial socio-economic importance in Australia as a popular leisure activity, particularly in regional areas. Heightened attention has been drawn towards angler satisfaction and the significance of motivational factors among recreational anglers in recent years. This study investigates aspects of satisfaction and motivation associated with recreational fishing in Port Phillip Bay (PPB), Australia. As one of the largest and most diverse bays in the country, PPB offers a diverse marine ecosystem attracting numerous anglers and boating enthusiasts. We examined long-term satisfaction data collected through creel surveys at 20 boat ramps in PPB over the decade spanning 2013-2022. Our analysis delved into satisfaction patterns on both annual and regional scales, considering factors such as avidity, demography (age groups), key species, policy changes and regulatory intervention. The importance of motivational factors in shaping angler satisfaction was also assessed. The findings underscored spatiotemporal trends in satisfaction levels, with lower ratings observed during the initial survey years especially in the western areas of PPB, Bellarine region, likely due to conflict over commercial net fishing which was subsequently phased out as policy shifted in favour of the recreational fishing sector. Higher satisfaction was evident among younger and avid anglers, and those targeting calamari, whilst King George whiting (KGW) was the species receiving the lowest satisfaction ratings, which some representative groups from the recreational sector attributed to commercial netting. The study highlighted the importance of intrinsic motivators such as relaxation and outdoor enjoyment which were significantly correlated with satisfaction, whereas extrinsic factors like competitive elements of fishing played a minimal role, although catching fresh fish for food was highly important. This study not only enhances our understanding about why anglers go fishing and which factors affect the quality of their experience, but also provides insights for policymakers and resource managers aiming to improve the sustainable use of PPB's fish stocks and to promote responsible angling practices in this important marine embayment.Keywords: angler satisfaction, motivational factors, recreational fishing, fisheries regulation