Recreational fishing is a widespread activity shaped by diverse human motivations, from food provision to sport and cultural expression. This chapter explores how these motivations influence the economic, ecological, and social value of recreational fisheries. By challenging the traditional divide between subsistence and recreation, it proposes a more inclusive framework for assessing value, one that accounts for both visible economic contributions and less tangible benefits like nutrition and well-being. The chapter sets the stage for deeper discussions on specialised and trophy fisheries, highlighting the need for balanced, context-sensitive management.