Answer the Call of the Wild by Locking and Loading the Latest Outdoor Gear
The fourth Saturday of every September is National Hunting and Fishing Day, ringing in the start of the hunting season. The day is meant to “recognize generations of sportsmen and women for contributions to the conservation of our nation’s rich sporting heritage and natural resources” according to the National Hunting and Fishing Day website. Hunters and fishers have raised more than $57 billion for conservation efforts.
The start of hunting and fishing season means that experienced sportsmen and women will be looking to upgrade their equipment and newcomers to the sports will be wanting to start their own kits. This is the ideal time to stock up on supplies to give customers what they’re looking for.
Survey says
According to outdoorindustry.com, in 2020, over “160.7 million Americans, ages 6 and over participated in at least one outdoor-related activity”. Hunting, fishing, and wildlife-watching are among the most popular outdoor pastimes.
The numbers don’t lie: hunting and other wildlife-related activities are still popular among many Americans. As a result, we’ll break down some of these statistics to see how much revenue different interests pull in. We’ll also look at what outdoor supplies interest each type of adventurer.
Hunting
Of the three markets, hunting pulls in nearly $30 billion thanks to the over 15 million recorded hunters. Almost half of that money is geared towards equipment. The number of hunters is down slightly since there has been an increase in camping and taxidermy materials. According to the Department of the Interior, “Camping equipment experienced a 27% uptick, and hunting trip-related expenses increased 15%.” But don’t be fooled by these numbers: hunting is still incredibly popular.
Now let’s see what gear hunters are looking for.
Trail cameras
Whether it’s scouting ducks on a pond or monitoring a trail for big game, trail cameras offer your customers some much-appreciated intel.
Binoculars and optics
Once hunters are familiar with the area they are going to hunt, they still must spot their target. Binoculars and optics are exactly what hunters need for spotting game from stands or blinds, and even keeping track of bird dogs from afar.
Riflescopes
There are multiple things to consider when selling riflescopes. The location of the hunt and time of day are important considerations. If they’re hunting at dawn or dusk, a scope that excels in low light would be ideal.
Gun cases
The most important accessory a hunter has is his weapon. Keeping that weapon pristine is essential to its accuracy. With the right gun case, a hunter can protect the gun from water, dirt, drops, and even crushing.
Camping
But what about campers? Don’t worry; the Petra lineup of camping accessories has you covered. Items like lanterns, tools, and weather radios appeal to campers and hunters alike. And don’t forget the sleeping bags!
Anglers
Fishing is up next. According to research presented by Realtree and supported by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, “Fishing is the second most popular outdoor activity for American adults.” Fishing comes in just behind running and jogging. The equipment expense for fishing gear is like hunting. The average expenditure for anglers was nearly $1,300—including equipment, licenses, and other expenses.
Now let’s see what supplies will make fishermen bite.
Fish finders and transducers
Casual anglers are often content to while away the hours on the water without worrying about how many fish they catch. But serious anglers equip their boats with fish finders to get precise mapping, intel on where the fish are, bottom conditions, etc.
Fishfinders vary greatly in price and features. PiranhaMAX models are ideal for smaller boats and offer a lot of bang for the buck.
Fish finder accessories
Experienced anglers are often on the prowl for fish finder accessories. Petra offers a range of cable adapters, Ethernet cables and switches, separate transducers, and in-dash mounting kits to augment existing fish finders.
Observers
Consider catering to the growing wildlife observation demographic—comprised of 86 million Americans, over the age of 16. More than hunting or fishing, simply getting out into nature has become the biggest draw. Pulling in almost three times as much money as hunting, wildlife observation, and photography, wildlife observation has become a rapidly growing hobby. Much of the same gear used for hunting also applies to observers, such as binoculars and camping gear. But there are some specialized pieces of equipment as well.
GPS receivers
For those who enjoy hiking out to look-out spots, consider keeping GPS receivers on hand. They’re an ideal accessory for any great outdoors lover, regardless of their preferred pastime. Although all handheld GPS devices use satellites for their coordinates, as you’ll see, some utilize satellite technology to a higher degree.
Walkie talkies
While hiking with a group, it’s easy for members to become separated. Walkie-talkies provide an excellent way to stay in touch—especially if there is no cell coverage.
Reeling in outdoor supplies
Although the outdoor sports market is fluctuating in some areas, it is still a $156 billion enterprise— “The most in the last 25 years, adjusted for inflation.”
Outdoor wildlife-based activities are still very popular. Use National Hunting and Fishing Month as an opportunity to reassess your inventory. Stock up to cater to newcomers as well as seasoned veterans. Outfit your customers who answer the call of the wild with hunting, fishing, and camping gear with products you can find on our Hunting and Fishing landing page!