BoatUS recently shared a new report from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) which reaffirms that recreational boating and fishing continue to drive the outdoor recreation economy, contributing more than any other conventional outdoor activity including RVing, hunting/shooting, motorcycling, or equestrian activities. The “Outdoor Recreation Satellite Account: U.S. and States, 2023” report revealed that boating and fishing account for $36.8 billion in current-dollar value added, representing a significant portion of the $639.5 billion outdoor recreation economy in 2023.
The data also highlighted the impact of the industry at the state level, with Florida ($4.2 billion), California ($3.1 billion), and Texas ($2.8 billion) leading as top contributors.
“BoatUS is committed to ensuring that policymakers recognize and prioritize the needs of boaters and anglers,” said BoatUS manager of government affairs David Kennedy. “This may include ensuring boaters have sufficient and safe access to the water such as launch ramps, support for boating safety programs, and conservation efforts to support fish stocks.”
The report also noted that outdoor recreation overall accounted for 2.3 percent of the U.S. Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2023. Boating and fishing were listed as the largest contributors to this sector in 34 states and the District of Columbia, demonstrating their widespread economic significance.
The BEA report’s findings come as communities across the U.S. face decisions on how best to manage natural resources and recreation infrastructure.