the recreational fishing market | Italy

1.1 Definition and scope of study

The term recreational fishing refers to the activity exercised exclusively for recreational or sporting purposes that uses living aquatic resources and is exercised along the coasts of the sea, rivers or lakes, either on the surface or underwater. It differs from commercial fishing in that, in the context of recreational fishing is strictly prohibited, in any form, the sale of the product caught. 

The recreational fishing market refers to the supply of equipment and services that enable the practice of fishing. This market includes fishing equipment, licenses needed to practice this activity, means of transport, accommodation, etc.. 

The Italian market is now subject to strict regulations that strongly limit the development of recreational fishing because of the strong impact it causes on aquatic resources. In spite of this, the data regarding this activity are positive: more than half of the electronic instruments sold annually are destined to the recreational fishing sub-segment as well as a good part of the recreational boats.

There are many Italian associations dedicated to sport fishing, which in turn have a high number of members. In Italy today there are about 1.25 million recreational and sport fishermen. In terms of distribution, there is also the presence of a good number of outlets specializing in sport and recreational fishing.

Given the large extension of the Italian coastline and the prosperity of lakes and riverbanks present on the Italian territory, this country is particularly predisposed to the activity of recreational and sport fishing. This natural predisposition of the territory together with the high rating of hospitality services in Italy represent an important opportunity to make Italy one of the most popular poles for the development of this type of activity.