For the 15th consecutive year, the Outdoor Foundation (OF) and the Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation (RBFF) have released their Special Report on Fishing — the most comprehensive overview of recreational fishing participation in the United States. The 2025 edition covers data through 2024, offering in-depth insights into long-term trends, motivations, demographics, and opportunities for future growth.
Record-Breaking Participation
In 2024, 57.9 million Americans aged 6 and older went fishing — surpassing 2023’s record of 57.7 million. This marks the highest number ever recorded since the report began in 2007. The national participation rate held steady at 19%, also an all-time high, confirming the enduring appeal of fishing as a recreational activity.
Youth Engagement Remains Crucial
The report highlights the importance of early exposure:
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85% of adult anglers today started fishing before age 12.
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Participation drops sharply after age 18, showing that families with young children are key to the future of the sport.
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Efforts to engage youth and families continue to be critical for sustaining long-term participation.
Diverse Angler Demographics
The angler base continues to diversify:
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Women now represent 37% of all fishing participants.
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Participation among Hispanic Americans has grown by 45% over the past decade.
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While most anglers still identify as White, the overall ethnic diversity of the fishing community continues to increase.
These trends reflect shifting demographics in the U.S. and point to growing opportunities for inclusive outreach and engagement.
Barriers and Motivations
Top motivations for fishing include:
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Spending time in nature
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Relaxation
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Social bonding
Barriers cited by non-participants include lack of time, lack of access, and not having someone to fish with — highlighting areas for continued outreach and support.
Why It Matters
With participation at an all-time high, angling remains a vital pathway to outdoor recreation, mental health, and conservation awareness. The report reinforces the need for targeted efforts to introduce fishing to young people, support family-friendly access, and address barriers to entry — especially among underrepresented groups.
=>Download the full 2025 Special Report on Fishing
