The recreational fishing market in France

Recreational fishing is deeply rooted in French culture, with 1.46 million people practicing it. Unlike commercial fishing, this practice is exclusively reserved for individuals, who fish for recreational or sporting reasons without the right to resell their catch. Its appeal rests on several dimensions: the pleasure of catching fish, the connection with nature, and the social and traditional aspects associated with it.

This market relies on a varied ecosystem, including the sale of fishing equipment, licenses, guiding services, transport, accommodation and boat maintenance. In 2024, the majority of anglers (55%) used a boat, with 803,000 boats dedicated to this activity, underlining the importance of the nautical sector in the leisure fishing economy. Expenditure on this hobby remains substantial, averaging €788 per year per angler, including €235 for boat equipment and €163 for specialized clothing.

The geographical distribution of anglers is strongly influenced by their proximity to the coast. In 2024, maritime regions will concentrate the majority of anglers: 27% in Brittany, 14% in Nouvelle-Aquitaine and 13% in Pays de la Loire, compared to just 1% in Grand Est and Centre-Val de Loire. This regional concentration reflects the accessibility of fishing areas and the cultural heritage of fishing in certain regions.

In recent years, the leisure fishing market has undergone profound changes. One of the most striking trends in 2024 is the rise of no-kill fishing, which involves releasing fish after they have been caught. Nowadays, the average angler keeps only 3 of every 9 fish caught per trip, a declining figure that reflects heightened environmental awareness and the effect of stricter regulations. This trend is accompanied by stricter rules, such as the increase in minimum catch sizes for several species, notably 42 cm for sea bass and 9 cm for lobster.

Recreational fishing remains a male-dominated activity(98% of anglers in 2024), with a marked ageing trend, with an average age of 51 years and a high representation of people from upper-income groups (39% of anglers) and retirees (32%). The low proportion of young people (only 3% under 24) raises issues about the future of this activity, prompting industry players to rethink their offering to attract new enthusiasts.

Finally, the concentration of catches on a few specific species poses challenges for the sustainable management of fishery resources. In 2024, bass/wolfish (20% of catches), mackerel (13%) and sea bream (8%) will be among the most popular fish species. However, some of these species are under pressure, leading to reinforced protection measures. Pollock fishing, for example, is now governed by quotas and seasonal bans, reflecting the authorities' determination to preserve fish stocks for years to come.

As a result, the French leisure fishing market finds itself at a crossroads: between increased regulation, changing practices and accessibility issues. While the enthusiasm of fishing enthusiasts remains strong, the sector's long-term survival depends on its ability to attract new audiences while adapting to environmental and economic challenges.