Fishing is a popular leisure activity in France. These figures represent the number of people who fish at least twelve times a year. Generally, fishing takes place during vacations as a leisure activity. Over one million fishermen fail to pay any kind of fishing tax. According to the last official survey, in 1996, total sales of fishing equipment amounted to USD 420 million.
Fishing is a seasonal activity.
It usually starts March 15 and ends November 30. Due to the new players in the market, customers are now able to take advantage of a larger line of products as well as competitive prices. Sales on-line are also increasing. For example, the following two web sites display a wide range of fishing equipment. These include self-service sporting goods chain stores with a fishing section.