Hunting is big business. According to information provided by the Animal Use Issues Committee of the International Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, hunting generates more than $67 billion in economic output in the United States and more than 1 million jobs. On the average in the U.S., each hunter spends $1,896 per year on hunting. That is 5.5 percent of the typical wage earner’s annual income.

Not only is it big business, but hunting is a thriving business. Retail sales have grown nearly 17 percent since 1991. Even when economic times are tough, people continue to spend time and money on hunting. After September 11, 2001, much of the travel industry suffered a sharp decline. Hunters kept to their travels supporting local motels, restaurants, gas stations and other businesses.

And finally, hunting is a healthy business. Literally. There are many health benefits to being an active outdoorsman. It is an American tradition that encompasses most ethnical, racial, religious and political boundaries. It involves family and friends. It brings a sense of stewarding to the land, the environment and all things wild.

As big as hunting is in America, fishing is even bigger. There are 44.3 million anglers that contribute to an estimated $116 billion overall economic output in the U.S. The average angler spends over $1,200 every year on the sport. That includes $41.5 billion in retail sales and $7.3 billion in state and federal taxes. The fishing industry supports over 1 million jobs in America and $30 billion in wages (more than created by corporate giants like Microsoft, Nike or Ford).