About

Summary 

Fishing is one of the most popular outdoor sports in the world and fishing tourists enjoy both freshwater and saltwater fishing experiences, like game fishing for big fish in exotic destinations. Developing countries are home to some of the best fishing locations in the world and are highly sought after. Sustainable fishing is important to recreational anglers, who look for responsible tour operators with strong sustainability actions including the conservation of fish species and improved catch-and-release techniques. 

Acorn Tourism was commissioned by the CBI to undertake thorough research to help SMEs in developing countries to understand the potential of fishing tourism and support them to attract the European market. 

Our Approach 

Acorn Tourism undertook comprehensive research into the fishing tourism segment, identifying that the rising interest in sustainable tourism and ecotourism is creating opportunities for the fishing tourism segment. The study identified the wide variety of fishing experiences across the world, ad provided a segmentation of the angler market, from the adventurous angler motivated by the thrill and challenge of fishing, and the zen angler who likes to get away to relax. Fishing is a major part of the European region’s culture and economy and the study profiled the main European source markets 

A range of practical advice was offered to SMEs looking to attract this market, with a strong focus on embedding sustainability into a fishing operation to ensure healthy fish stocks, conservation of species and techniques to reduce trauma to captured fish before release. Other practical tips were provided to help appeal to this discerning market. Acorn Tourism’s research outline the main sales channels for fishing tourism and outlined some of the main competing destinations and businesses to provide context and further information. 

This study accompanies a wide range of detailed business guides aimed at SMEs in developing countries commissioned by the CBI, the Netherlands Enterprise Centre, one of Acorn Tourism’s long-term clients.

Outcome 

Acorn Tourism’s guide to help local tour operators all over the world develop fishing tourism products sustainably provided a thorough study of the market with a wide range of information and practical tips.