New Reports Detail Hunting, Target Shooting, and Fishing’s $206 Billion Economic Impact
- By FTR Industry Wire
- April 10, 2025
Reports from the American Sportfishing Association and the Sportsmen’s Alliance Foundation Provide Insights at the Federal, State, and Local Levels.
FERNANDINA BEACH, FL. — Hunting, target shooting, and recreational fishing are not only cherished American traditions but also powerful economic drivers, generating billions in retail sales, job creation, and conservation funding. A newly released series of reports from Southwick Associates and partners provides updated insights into the economic contributions of these outdoor activities at the federal, state, and congressional district levels.
Using data in part from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s 2022 National Survey of Fishing, Hunting, and Wildlife-Associated Recreation and GIS mapping software, the studies highlight how spending by hunters, target shooters, and anglers supports jobs, wages, and local economies across the country. The research was conducted on behalf of the Sportsmen’s Alliance Foundation for hunting and target shooting and the American Sportfishing Association for sportfishing.
“Recreational fishing, hunting and target shooting are an escape for many, but are the workday for many others, collectively supporting nearly 2.5 million jobs in the U.S.,” said Rob Southwick, President of Southwick Associates. “Actions that impede Americans from enjoying these national pastimes or help to expand opportunity will be felt in all corners of the U.S. economy.”
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