Sports Fishing Equipment Market Size, Share, Demand Report By Type (Rods, Reels, Lures & Baits, Fishing Lines, Accessories), By Application (Freshwater Fishing, Saltwater Fishing), By Material (Carbon Fiber, Graphite, Composite Materials, Others), By Distribution Channel (Offline Retail, Online Retail), By End User (Professional, Recreational), Regional & Segment Forecasts, 2025-2033
USD 3950
Market Overview
According to Reed Intelligence the global Sports Fishing Equipment Market was valued at USD 18.7 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 29.4 billion by 2033, expanding at a CAGR of 5.1% from 2025 to 2033. Growing recreational participation, especially among millennials and Generation Z, supported the market in 2024. A key global factor driving demand was the rapid expansion of freshwater and saltwater angling tourism, which increased consumer spending on rods, reels, lures, and supporting gear.
Manufacturers continued investing in lightweight materials, digital fish-finding tools, and sustainable tackle products to differentiate their portfolios. Rising consumer interest in outdoor activities further encouraged retailers and e-commerce platforms to expand product availability across major markets. Government initiatives to promote fishing sports tournaments also contributed to stable equipment sales.
Key Highlights:
- Dominant region: North America held a 34.8% share in 2024; fastest-growing region: Asia Pacific, CAGR 6.2%.
- By Type: Rods dominated with a 29.4% share; fastest-growing: Lures & Baits at 6.7% CAGR.
- By Application: Freshwater fishing held the largest share at 63.1%; fastest-growing: Saltwater fishing at 6.4% CAGR.
- Dominant country: United States market valued at USD 4.9 billion in 2024 and USD 5.2 billion in 2025.
Market Trends
Eco-Friendly and Biodegradable Fishing Gear
The shift toward environmental responsibility encouraged manufacturers to develop biodegradable lures, non-toxic sinkers, and recycled fiber-based rods. Anglers increasingly considered environmental sustainability when choosing equipment, leading brands to introduce eco-certified lines. This trend reshaped competitive positioning as companies differentiated through greener materials, reduced microplastic content, and cleaner production processes.
Smart and Connected Fishing Tools
The integration of digital technologies gained momentum, with smart sonar devices, Bluetooth-enabled reels, and app-connected bite alarms becoming more common. These technologies enhanced decision-making by providing water-depth readings, bite force indicators, and location tracking. As consumers sought advanced fishing experiences, smart fishing products transitioned from niche to mainstream, influencing equipment development strategies.
Market Drivers
Expansion of Recreational Angling Tourism
The growing popularity of fishing vacations, guided tours, and international angling competitions stimulated demand for specialized gear. Many countries invested in promoting angling destinations, increasing visitor inflow and equipment purchases. Tour operators collaborated with equipment providers to offer premium fishing packages, which heightened product adoption across both premium and economy categories.
Rising Participation in Outdoor Sports and Wellness Activities
The global shift toward wellness encouraged consumers to spend more time outdoors, making fishing a preferred low-impact physical activity. The accessibility of fishing for all age groups attracted first-time anglers, boosting entry-level equipment sales. Concurrently, high engagement among hobbyists supported repeat purchases of advanced gear. This broader participation positively influenced overall industry growth.
Market Restraints
Regulatory Limitations and Fishing Quotas
The Sports Fishing Equipment Market encountered challenges due to strict fishing regulations in various countries, including limitations on seasonal fishing windows, bag limits, and catch-and-release protocols. These restrictions aimed to protect aquatic populations, but they also reduced fishing frequency in certain regions. In addition, regulatory complexities associated with saltwater zones occasionally discouraged hobbyist participation. Retailers in affected jurisdictions reported slower sales during restricted months. Although these regulations were essential for ecological sustainability, they acted as a bottleneck for consistent equipment sales, especially in coastal and protected habitats.
Market Opportunities
Premiumization of High-Performance Fishing Gear
Growing interest in specialized equipment created opportunities for premium rods, carbon-fiber reels, and aerodynamic lures. Manufacturers can tap into rising demand for lightweight, ergonomic, and high-strength materials. Competitive anglers and frequent hobbyists are increasingly willing to invest in advanced gear. This trend will enable brands to expand their high-margin product lines and cater to a more discerning consumer group.
Growth of E-Commerce and Direct-to-Consumer Sales
The rapid expansion of online platforms provides strong growth potential for suppliers. E-commerce allows brands to target beginners and experienced anglers through bundled kits, online tutorials, and subscription-based lure boxes. Companies adopting direct-to-consumer models can reduce distribution costs, improve customer engagement, and gain actionable insights from purchase patterns. This approach will offer new scalability avenues for both established brands and emerging entrants.
Segmental Analysis
By Type
Rods dominated the Type segment with a 29.4% share in 2024. Their broad availability across freshwater and saltwater applications and continuous product enhancements, including ergonomic grips and composite materials, supported their popularity. Retailers also offered a wide range of budget and premium rod categories to meet varying consumer needs.
Lures & Baits will be the fastest-growing subsegment, registering a 6.7% CAGR through 2033. Product innovation, including lifelike patterns, scent-infused designs, and eco-friendly materials, will enhance adoption among hobbyists and competitive anglers. These features will attract consumers seeking increased catch efficiency and an enhanced fishing experience.
By Application
Freshwater fishing held the largest application share at 63.1% in 2024. The abundance of lakes, rivers, and reservoirs globally made freshwater fishing highly accessible. Entry-level anglers typically preferred freshwater settings, contributing to high equipment sales in this subsegment. Retailers frequently marketed beginner kits targeting freshwater use.
Saltwater fishing will grow at a 6.4% CAGR owing to rising interest in offshore activities and coastal tourism. The increasing availability of specialized salt-resistant equipment will encourage more consumers to engage in deep-sea or surf fishing. Tourism operators will promote saltwater packages, thereby supporting equipment demand.
By Material
Carbon fiber dominated the Material segment with a 41.9% share in 2024. Its lightweight structure, high sensitivity, and strong performance characteristics made it a top choice for rods and reels. Consumers relied on carbon fiber for targeting larger species and competitive fishing environments.
Composite materials will record a 6.5% CAGR through the forecast period. Their balance of affordability, durability, and versatility will support adoption among beginner and intermediate anglers. Composite rods and reels will attract consumers seeking performance without premium price tags.
By Distribution Channel
Offline retail dominated the channel segment with a 56.3% share in 2024. Specialty stores, sporting goods outlets, and large retail chains provided hands-on experience and expert assistance. Many consumers preferred trying products physically before purchase, particularly for rods and reels.
Online retail will grow at a 7.1% CAGR due to rising digital purchasing habits. E-commerce platforms will offer broad selections, competitive pricing, and bundled gear packages. Video tutorials and product demos will encourage higher conversion rates among both new and experienced anglers.
| By Type: | By Application: | By Material: | By Distribution Channel: | By End User: |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
|
|
|
Regional Analysis
North America
North America accounted for 34.8% of the market in 2025 and will register a 5.2% CAGR through the forecast period. The region benefitted from a mature fishing culture and widespread angling participation. Government-backed freshwater conservation initiatives helped maintain lake and river ecosystems, supporting fishing activities across the United States and Canada.
The United States dominated the region due to its large angler base, well-developed retail environment, and extensive sportfishing infrastructure. The presence of several fishing tournaments and the popularity of bass fishing encouraged consumers to purchase advanced gear. Rising adoption of smart sonar devices further strengthened the country’s equipment demand.
Europe
Europe held a 27.1% share in 2025 and will expand at a 4.6% CAGR between 2025 and 2033. The region’s market performance was driven by recreational angling communities across Scandinavia, Western Europe, and Central Europe. Lakeside tourism and river-based fishing holidays remained popular among domestic tourists.
Germany emerged as the largest contributor because of its strong fishing club networks and structured angling certification programs. The country’s emphasis on organized fishing education increased the demand for compliant equipment. Additionally, German consumers showed rising interest in environmentally friendly lures and bio-based lines.
Asia Pacific
Asia Pacific represented 22.4% of the market in 2025 and will record the highest 6.2% CAGR through 2033. Increasing disposable incomes, expanding coastal tourism, and the growth of local fishing tournaments influenced equipment sales across the region. The rising popularity of sportfishing in Southeast Asia and Oceania also contributed to upward demand.
China dominated the regional market due to its large population and rapid expansion of recreational fishing venues. Urban fishing parks, premium tackle shops, and government-supported tourism zones boosted adoption among young enthusiasts. The country’s growing manufacturing base also facilitated cost-effective product availability.
Middle East & Africa
The Middle East & Africa accounted for 8.1% of the 2025 share and will experience a 4.4% CAGR during the forecast period. Coastal angling in the UAE, South Africa, and Oman supported regional demand. Enhanced investments in marine tourism, including charter boat services, encouraged more participation in open-water fishing.
The UAE dominated due to its strong tourism industry and high interest in deep-sea fishing among residents and visitors. The expansion of marinas, fishing competitions, and luxury charter experiences stimulated the purchase of premium saltwater gear.
Latin America
Latin America captured 7.6% of the market in 2025 and will grow at a 4.8% CAGR through 2033. The region benefitted from strong freshwater fishing demand in Brazil, Chile, and Argentina. Amazon river expeditions and coastal sportfishing experiences appealed to adventure tourists.
Brazil led the market owing to its diverse freshwater habitats and increasing fishing tourism in the Amazon basin. Rising collaboration between travel operators and gear suppliers resulted in wider product visibility and increased equipment sales.
| North America | Europe | APAC | Middle East and Africa | LATAM |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
|
|
|
Competitive Landscape
The Sports Fishing Equipment Market remains moderately fragmented with a blend of global brands and regional manufacturers. Leading companies focus on material innovation, ergonomic design, and product diversification. Shimano Inc. maintained a strong position with its advanced carbon-fiber rods and smart reel technologies. The company’s latest development involved launching a digitally integrated reel offering real-time tension feedback. Daiwa Corporation, Rapala VMC, Pure Fishing Inc., and Okuma Tackle continued expanding their portfolios through premium gear lines and influencer-based marketing initiatives. Manufacturers are also strengthening their e-commerce strategies to reach wider consumer groups.
Key Players List
- Shimano Inc.
- Daiwa Corporation
- Rapala VMC
- Pure Fishing Inc.
- Okuma Tackle
- Abu Garcia
- Penn Fishing
- St. Croix Rods
- Megabass Co. Ltd.
- G. Loomis
- Mustad Fishing
- Eagle Claw
- Strike King
- 13 Fishing
- KastKing
Recent Developments
- In 2024, Shimano introduced a smart reel line integrating torque and drag sensors for advanced angler insights.
- Daiwa expanded its eco-friendly lure range using biodegradable polymers.
- Rapala VMC launched new scent-enhanced baits targeting competitive anglers.
- Pure Fishing Inc. strengthened its direct-to-consumer portal with subscription-based tackle kits.
- Okuma unveiled corrosion-resistant saltwater reels for offshore use.
