Boating is firmly anchored to the economy, history, and culture of the United States – an estimated 100 million Americans enjoy recreational boating each year and spend $49.3 billion in 2020 on boats, marine products, and marine services such as storage and maintenance. Of these marine vessels, 95% were crafted in America, which is truly an outstanding record that celebrates American nautical heritage. If that is not testimony enough to how much Americans love boating, consider how the U.S. Department of Commerce's Bureau of Economic Analysis reported that recreational boating and fishing was the top contributor to the $689 billion dollar outdoor recreation industry. So, what state has the most boats per capita? That winner would be Minnesota with 143.6 per 1,000 people! Minnesota is home to 11,842 lakes, including the awe-inspiring Lake Superior, which is the largest in the United States and holds 10% of the Earth’s surface fresh water!
