A recent study released by the American Sportfishing Association reveals the significant impact of angler’s expenditures on the nation’s economy. The report, produced by Southwick Associates, includes the latest economic numbers for the sportfishing industry.
Especially if you live in a coastal community this may not be new information, but for the millions of folks that don’t, it is important to realize that the fishing industry reaches you too.
Fishing is much more than a recreational getaway, it supports and industry that provides a living for countless numbers of people. From the smallest tackle retailer, to fishing guides, to the hospitality industry, to the largest boat manufacture, the nation’s 60 million anglers are very important engines of economic activity.
“As an industry, we are keenly aware of the impact that sportfishing has on this nation’s economy,” said ASA President and CEO Mike Nussman. “Just by enjoying a day on the water, men, women and children across the United States pump billions of dollars into this country’s economy.”
Nussman went on to say, “And it’s not just the economy. In many ways, America’s anglers are the nation’s most powerful force for conserving our nation’s fisheries and waters, investing more than $1 billion dollars each year in fisheries management and conservation through taxes on fishing equipment and state fishing license sales.”
According to the new study, America’s nearly 60 million anglers are estimated to spend $46 billion per year on fishing equipment, transportation, lodging and other expenses associated with their sport. With a total annual economic impact of $115 billion, fishing supports more than 828,000 jobs and generates $35 billion in wages and $15 billion in federal and state taxes. Despite the economic difficulties facing the U.S. economy over the past five years; the total amount spent on sportfishing, which encompasses tackle, travel and other equipment, grew five percent.
The number of anglers is strong and growing, and the resulting impact will serve the nation well in terms of economic growth and conservation efforts.
For more information visit the following link:
Sportfishing in America: An Economic Force for Conservation
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Angler Alert: Don’t forget to log you catch online at the Angler Action Program.
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