Fishing Tackle Industry Asks for Tariff Relief

Today, the American Sportfishing Association (ASA) issued a strong warning: continued uncertainty and punitive tariffs threaten the very survival of many American sportfishing businesses.

In a letter sent to top Trump Administration officials, ASA President Glenn Hughes emphasized the urgent need for relief from the 145% retaliatory tariffs on Chinese goods, which include many of the rods, reels, and other gear relied upon by American anglers.

“For many of our members, this is an existential crisis,” Hughes wrote. “Without clarity and timely action on tariff relief, small businesses that make up the backbone of our industry may be forced to scale back operations or shut down entirely.”

The sportfishing industry contributes $230 billion to the U.S. economy and supports over 1.1 million jobs. It also plays a vital role in conservation, with a federal excise tax on fishing equipment funding habitat restoration and public access through the Sport Fish Restoration Fund. But the combined pressure of existing taxes and sustained tariffs has pushed many companies to the brink.

Much of the industry’s equipment is manufactured in China, particularly affordable rods and reels for entry-level and casual anglers. While companies are actively exploring nearshoring and onshoring alternatives, ASA notes that reshaping global supply chains is a long-term effort—and one that’s nearly impossible to commit to in the face of volatile trade rules and high financing barriers.

ASA is urging the Administration to take three key steps:

1. Conclude trade agreements that provide predictability to U.S. businesses.

2. Grant tariff exclusions for sportfishing gear categories with no viable non-Chinese alternatives.

3. Support targeted programs to help companies shift production closer to home where possible.

The consequences of inaction extend beyond the industry itself. “Fewer anglers mean less funding for conservation, diminished local economies, and the loss of a uniquely American tradition that benefits millions,” Hughes warned.

Read the full letter here.

Source: https://onthewater.com/fishing-tackle-industry-asks-for-tariff-relief

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