Boating in the United States
Boating is enjoyed by tens of millions and is a popular way to connect with America’s waterways. When you’re trolling to your favorite fishing hole, cruising along a coastal bay, or towing water-skiers, boating brings you closer to nature while supporting local economies. Boating fosters lifelong memories and helps support clean waterways and infrastructure that ensures access for all.
Motorized Boating Safety, Access, and Stewardship
From coast to coast, state and federal agencies work together to ensure boating is safe and accessible. These efforts include supporting the construction and maintenance of boat ramps, docks, and bathroom facilities to support boaters, as well as free Coast Guard boating safety courses that keep waterways safe. Agencies and boaters both play an essential role in continued waterway access and protecting water quality.
Funding Boating Access and Clean Water Through Partnership
The Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund, as embedded the Sport Fish Restoration Act, funds projects that support motorized boating, fishing, and aquatic resource conservation across the U.S. The funds come from federal excise taxes paid by fishing tackle manufacturers, a portion of the federal gas tax that is attributable to motorboats and small engines, and matching contributions from state fishing license sales. When combined these dollars:
- Maintain and construct boat launches, docks, and moorings fields
- Promote boater education and safety
- Support the construction, renovation, operation, and maintenance of pump-out stations and waste reception facilities
If you’ve ever launched your boat from a well-maintained ramp, attended a boating safety course, or used a pump-out facility, chances are these funds played a part.
Boating Boosts Local Economies
There are over 12.5 million registered recreational boats in the United States. This pastime supports hundreds of thousands of jobs from marina staff and boat retailers to local tourism and hospitality businesses. Whether it’s a weekend day trip or a weeklong cruise, boating drives spending that sustains communities nationwide.
Get Involved
Boating is not just a pastime, it is an adventure that deepens connections to nature and the people around you. The gentle sound of waves and sunlight across the water creates a setting that can ease stress and offers a sense of freedom unlike anything else. Boating is more than just cruising across open water. It’s anchoring in a quiet cove for a swim, sharing laughter over a sunset dinner on deck, teaching someone how to steer for the first time, and making memories that last long after you’ve docked. Your next boating adventure can provide relaxation, a connection to nature, and build traditions that bring family and friends back to the water year after year.
Ready to get on the water and discover boating opportunities near you? Visit our local state fish and wildlife agency or boating agency website for more information about boat registration, and public launch sites. Explore the U.S. Coast Guard’s Boating Safety Division’s safety courses and resources to build your knowledge and skills before you out.
