For recreational anglers, the opener is a tradition and cultural holiday. Fishing has become serious business for marine outfitters, sport shops and the anglers who spend six months visiting shows and buying equipment for one of America s favorite pastimes. Those in recreation angling are spending a lot more time on the water and more money, says Ron Payer, fisheries director for the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. It s a culture and a tradition. It s ingrained in so many people s lives.
Fishing has become more than a pastime, it s an industry of big business.
Steve Moltzan, owner of Moorhead Marine, said fishing boat sales at his shop are up 90 percent since 1999. You re seeing a lot of technology going into the boats, Moltzan said. They re outfitting them better. They re buying all the high-end technology equipment. Serious anglers are adding high-tech motors, trolling motors, depth finders and GPS tracking units to find bigger fish faster.