Global dataset of documented recreational fishing-mediated introductions of aquatic non-native species

This dataset compiles published evidence of recreational fishing-mediated introductions of aquatic non-native species worldwide. It was developed through a systematic literature review using the Web of Science and Scopus databases and includes records associated with four major introduction pathways: intentional stocking, live bait, fishing gear and equipment, and direct release by anglers. The dataset contains bibliographic information (publication title, database source, DOI, document type, publication year, and journal), geographical information (country, coordinates, and study year), environmental characteristics (ecosystem and waterbody types), fishing methods, introduction pathways, and taxonomic information. Recorded organisms are classified into four major groups: fish, invertebrates, aquatic plants, and pathogens. Categorical information is presented using binary indicators, where 1 indicates a recorded category or species and blank cells indicate that the corresponding category was not recorded. The dataset supports analyses of temporal and geographical patterns, introduction pathways, and taxonomic diversity associated with recreational fishing-mediated introductions of aquatic non-native species. Associated manuscript: Yang et al., Documented recreational fishing-mediated introductions of aquatic non-native species: pathways and evidence gaps.