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The growing importance of recreational fishing to the US economy has been emphasised in the latest report from the industry body that represents the sport.
The American Sportfishing Association (ASA) says that the new Sportfishing in America data shows that the industry generates more than $230.5 billion annually for the country’s economy and contributes $70 billion in salaries and wages, reinforcing its role as an economic force.
In 2022, sportfishing supported over 1.1 million jobs in the US – more employees than any company in the country except for Walmart and Amazon.
“These figures show that recreational fishing remains a significant driver of the US economy,” said Glenn Hughes, President and CEO of the ASA. “With over one in six Americans participating each year, and overall spending totalling almost $100 billion on equipment, licences. outings and related expenses, recreational fishing serves as an economic cornerstone for many communities, particularly in rural coastal regions.
The 2024 report includes updated economic impact figures for each state and every Congressional district in the country.
Conducted by Southwick Associates, the report also highlights the industry’s role in conservation. Through a federal excise tax on fishing tackle and motorboat fuel, along with licence sales and charitable contributions, the sportfishing community contributes $2 billion annually to angler and boating access, fisheries conservation and habitat restoration efforts.
For more information and to explore the full report, visit www.asafishing.org/economic-impacts-of-recreational-fishing/.
