The standardization of monitoring protocols across jurisdictions is a common theme in fisheries management because it provides a straightforward method for unbiased comparisons among different systems (i.e., across watersheds, lakes, states, or countries) and through time. However, in fisheries, one size rarely fits all, and as such, standard protocols must sometimes be optimized to fit the conditions of the study or management priorities. Creel surveys (i.e., the collection of socio-economic, fish, and fisheries information related to fishing trips and activities) are no exception. Further, over a long enough time, a creel survey may need modifications as the fish stock or societal conditions surrounding the fishery change. This chapter offers advice on how to measure the effectiveness of traditional creel survey protocols (e.g., stratified single-system angler interview and count surveys) and incorporate newer methods to gain additional insight into creel survey design and angler behaviour. First, we offer some practical advice on linking the mandate of fishery management with the outputs of creel surveys. Second, we introduce some approaches to improving the efficiency of the creel survey if the analyst deems the general protocol unbiased. Third, we present some approaches to identify, mitigate, and quantitatively correct biased data. Finally, we discuss how a Bayesian-based joint estimation modelling framework can combine multiple survey protocols (e.g., roving and waterbody access point, vehicle counts, and aerial angler counts) into one creel survey design.