SPRINGFIELD, Va. — A new report from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) 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% 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.

For more information on BEA’s findings and what they mean for recreational boating, visit https://www.bea.gov/news/2024/outdoor-recreation-satellite-account-us-and-states-2023.

About Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS)

Celebrating more than 55 years, BoatUS is the nation’s largest advocacy, services and safety group with more than 725,000 dues-paying members. BoatUS is the boat owners’ voice on Capitol Hill, fighting for their rights. The TowBoatUS® fleet is available 24/7 to assist our members on the water when boats break down or run aground with some 600 vessels and 300-plus locations across North America, bringing our members safely back to the launch ramp, marina or dock. On the road, we are The Boat Owners Auto Club™, helping ensure roadside trailer and tow vehicle breakdowns won’t slow you down. BoatUS offers GEICO boat insurance policies that give boat owners affordable, specialized coverage and the superior service they need. Award-winning BoatUS Magazine is the largest circulation recreational marine publication in the U.S. with engaging content that speaks to the passion for boat ownership, while our 501(c)(3) nonprofit BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water offers the nation’s only free online boating safety course and many other programs that keep boaters safe and our waters clean.