Invaluable data reveals financial worth of US fishing industry
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Invaluable data for the recreational fishing industry is contained in a new report just released by the American Sportfishing Association (ASA).
The report – the 2023 Economic Contributions of Recreational Fishing: US Congressional Districts – reveals information about angler participation and economic impacts across all 50 states and the country’s 435 congressional districts.
Findings include the fact that 52.4 million anglers contribute $148 billion in economic output and support 945,500 jobs across the country, as well as contributing $1.8 billion to conservation.
Jobs supported include not just those in the manufacture and sale of fishing tackle, but also those in other industries like hotel accommodation, restaurants, charter trips and more.
“As Congress debates future legislation that affects our industry, it is important that members of Congress have data to make the best available decisions,” said ASA Vice President of Government Affairs Mike Leonard.
“This study will help show them that recreational fishing is an economic driver and job creator in their state or district. We hope that this information drives home the tremendous value sportfishing has to the nation and, therefore, the importance of supporting fisheries conservation and public access.”
The data was compiled in partnership with research firm Southwick Associates, whose President, Rob Southwick, added: “While sportfishing provides millions of days of escape and fun across the country, many people do not realise its significant economic contributions. Sportfishing is an economic engine that needs the same level of care and consideration as other critical industries.”
Headline statistics from the report include the top five states in economic output – Florida $13.9bn, Texas $7.7bn, California $6.2bn, Minnesota $4.2bn and Michigan $3.9bn.
The state with the highest percentage of anglers against population is Alaska with an amazing 64%, followed by Wyoming 58%, South Dakota 48%, Rhode Island 39% and Oklahoma 37%.
