With more than 2,270 miles of tidal shoreline, more than 11,000 miles of waterways, and year-round weather ideal for outdoor activities, Florida is world-renowned for its recreational fishing. In 2016 Florida led the nation in total angler expenditures, with almost $5 billion dollars spent, supporting more than 80,200 jobs.
Fishing supports jobs in several industries, including retail, boat manufacturing and repair, research, and tourism. In fact, the largest share of fishing expenditures goes to trip-related expenses, including food, lodging, and transportation, which together totaled $2.8 billion dollars in 2011, or 61 percent of all fishing expenditures.
The fishing industry continues to grow in Florida. According to a 2013 Census Bureau report, fishing days increased by 24 percent in in the state of Florida from 2006 to 2011.