Fall fishing on the Madison River at sunrise. (Photo: NPS / Jacob W. Frank)
Montana’s outdoor recreation industry continues to be a major economic driver, as highlighted by a U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis report from 2024. The report, delayed due to a federal shutdown, reveals that outdoor recreation activities made up 4.9% of Montana’s GDP, an increase from 2023. This places Montana third nationwide, following Hawaii and Alaska. The report underscores the state’s significant role in the national outdoor economy.
The U.S. report, known as the Outdoor Recreation Satellite Account, breaks down economic activity linked to outdoor recreation. This includes core activities like hunting, fishing, and snowsports, as well as supportive sectors. In Montana, boating and fishing generated $149 million, while hunting and snowsports added $118 million and $77 million, respectively.
Montana ranks high in employment within the outdoor recreation sector, with 5.9% of the workforce or 32,094 jobs. Hawaii and Alaska lead with higher percentages. Since 2020, Montana has added nearly 10,000 jobs in this field.
Nationally, outdoor recreation contributed $696.7 billion to GDP, a rise of 2.7% from 2023. The sector’s estimated ripple effect is $1.3 trillion, marking a peak since tracking began. The industry supports 5.2 million jobs and 3.2% of U.S. wages, with Montana’s industry generating $1.87 billion in wages.
The Outdoor Recreation Roundtable notes slowing growth due to inflation, interest rates, and post-COVID shifts. ORR president Jess Turner stated, “To keep this economic sector strong in 2026, we need action: invest in access, reduce friction in supply chains and permitting with stable business environments, and pass commonsense policies that support outdoor recreation infrastructure and public lands and waters.”
This release marks the eighth study under the Outdoor Recreation Jobs and Economic Impact Act of 2016. The Outdoor Industry Association reports record participation, with 181.1 million Americans engaging in outdoor activities in 2024.
Key 2024 metrics in recreational activities include:
Boating and fishing became the top conventional activity nationwide, valued at $38.4 billion. In Montana, these activities contributed $149 million, despite a slight decline from 2023.
RVing, the second-largest activity nationwide, added $27.5 billion and maintained the top spot in Montana with a $238 million impact.
Hunting and shooting activities in Montana rose 14%, contributing $118.4 million, while guiding and outfitting grew 12%, adding $162.5 million.
