The National Marine Manufacturers Association, the American Sportfishing Association’s government affairs committee and the Center for Coastal Conservation joined for a “Center Focus on Washington” during the American Boating Congress, which brought recreational boating stakeholders to Washington, D.C., last week to advocate for the industry.
Leaders of all three groups flew to Washington to advocate for sound management of America’s marine fishery resources and other policy positions. Anglers and boaters welcomed senators and congressmen, and many legislators’ offices hosted the visitors.
Advocates had one-on-one meetings and a general session that gathered members of Congress, regulators, economists, commentators and experts.
“Recreational fishing has tremendous value in connecting people to the outdoors and providing jobs throughout the nation,” ASA’s Scott Gudes said. “Given the increasing number of policy issues affecting the sport, it’s critical that our policymakers understand the important role that recreational fishing plays in conservation and the economy. No one relates that message better than our members.”
