Boating and fishing are the number one driver of the $1.3 trillion outdoor recreation economy
by National Marine Manufacturers Association 7 Mar 09:05 PST
Boating and fishing are the number one driver of the $1.3 trillion outdoor recreation economy © National Marine Manufacturers Association
The U.S. Department of Commerce's Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) released new data showing that the recreational boating and fishing industry is the number one driver of the U.S. outdoor recreation economy, highlighting the industry's significant role in driving economic activity across the country.
The outdoor recreation industry generated a record $1.3 trillion in economic output in 2024, supporting 5.2 million American jobs and accounting for 2.4% of the nation's GDP. Recreational boating plays a vital role in the outdoor recreation industry, driving economic activity, innovation, and outdoor enjoyment. The latest BEA data show that boating and fishing together generated $38.4 billion in 2024.
"As the nation approaches its 250th anniversary, these numbers are a powerful reminder that time on the water remains deeply woven into the American story," said Frank Hugelmeyer, President and CEO of the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA).
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