Leading into the Fourth of July weekend, the most popular boating holiday of the year, the National Marine Manufacturers Association released data showing recreational boating provides vast economic value for the nation — more than $121.5 billion.
As the popularity of boating reaches peak season across the country, Discover Boating named on-water hot spots in the top ten boating states ranked by total economic value.
1. Florida ($10.3 billion)
2. California ($8.9 billion)
3. Michigan ($7.4 billion)
4. Texas ($5.9 billion) Hot Spot: Austin Lake Austin, part of the seven Highland Lakes that stretch 85 miles northwest of the city, is regarded as a top outdoor destination in the area. The reservoir is formed by a dam on the Colorado River and beyond its recreational boating popularity with ideal conditions for watersports, it also attracts area anglers with its variety of fish, including largemouth bass.
