Charter Boats Create $82.3 Billion Economic Stimulus

Based on the NOAA reports, anglers in the US spent 127 million days saltwater fishing and created 534,000 jobs. The top five states are Florida, Texas, California, Louisana and North Carolina. End Quote

Charleston-North Charleston, SC (1888PressRelease) February 07, 2009 - According to an industry analysis performed by USOBE.com, nearly 25 million anglers in the US spent just over 127 million days saltwater fishing in 2006. “Their expenditures on everything from ice to having their catch mounted resulted in direct spending of $31.4 billion.” according to Don Campagna, spokesman for the company. USOBE is the Ultimate Source Of Boating Excursions, a nationwide network of charter boat captains.

“The industry itself creates 534,000 jobs but, the economic ripple effect is much greater” said Campagna. “Everyone from the bait shop owner, to the hotel operators, to the waitress in the restaurant benefit from fishermen. We estimate that their total economic impact is just over $82 billion. ” One of the major contributors to these numbers are those who produced and sold $25.6 billion in equipment and durable goods.

Citing data from the National Marine Fisheries Service and other trade sources, the study found that the top five states in terms of total expenditures were Florida ($16.7), Texas ($3.2), California ($3.0), Louisiana ($2.9) and North Carolina ($2.0). As an additional benefit, saltwater charter activity generated approximately $6.0 billion in federal taxes and about $4.0 billion in state and local taxes.

“The trends in our industry are quite positive with both trip expenditure and equipment spending rising steadily since 2000” said the spokesman. According to the National Marine Manufacturer’s Association, boat sales have increased 31% since 2000. In addition boat accessories have doubled and now hover around $3 billion annually. “USOBE predicts that while some sectors may see rough waters, its smooth sailing and big catches this year for the industry as a whole.”

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