Internet Marketing Tips for Fishermen

Fishermen across the United States contribute significantly to national and state economies. Just look at how much states like Florida and South Carolina depend on us. In Florida, recreational saltwater fishing alone accounts for over $9 billion* in revenue.

*Source: American Sportfishing Association and Southwick Associates, based on USFWS 2011 survey data updated to 2020 using FWC-OLP’s license trend data plus inflation data)

The fishing industry is a major contributor to the global economy as well. The point is, it’s high tide—er, time, that you cast your digital marketing net and catch your share of this thriving market.

Anglers of All Stripes

Not all anglers are cast from the same mold. Just like the fish they target, they come in various shapes, sizes, and fighting proclivities. While digital marketing agencies who are less experienced with fishermen might look at them as one big “niche,” Identifying your target market niche within fishermen is essential for developing successful fishing marketing strategies.

While there’s a strong sense of community among fishermen, they don’t all have the same preferences or needs. (Just look at how they debate about rigs.)

To develop effective fishing marketing strategies, you’ve got to identify your target market niche(s).

Some common—but definitely not mutually exclusive—audience categories include:

• Casual weekend anglers
• Experienced fishermen
• Fly fishermen
• Surf fishermen
• Inshore fishermen
• Deep sea/offshore fishermen
• Tournament participants
• Anglers with families (especially children they’d like to teach how to fish)

Understanding the unique characteristics, wants, and needs of groups like these will help you tailor your marketing efforts to attract the right customers.

Spy on Your Competition

No, seriously. Understanding your place in the “fish” market and sizing up your competition is essential to getting ahead in it.

Identify businesses that offer similar products and services to fishermen, and analyze their pricing strategies, marketing messages, strengths, and weaknesses.

Pay attention to where they advertise and how they engage with customers online. Keep a finger on the pulse by setting up search engine alerts and monitoring their digital presence.

The idea isn’t to copy them, but to understand what you can do to improve what you’re doing.

What’s USP, Doc?

Your unique selling proposition (USP) is the “hook” that sets you apart from the competition. Use it to create engaging marketing messages, press releases, and content for your website and social media.

Your USP is what sets your business apart from the competition. Use it to create engaging marketing messages, press releases, and content for your website and social media. Some examples of USPs for fishing businesses include:

• Tarpon fishing trips with expert guides
• Scalloping or lobstering charters
• Alligator hunting
• Night fishing trips
• Deep sea shark adventures
• Exclusive access to prime (or private) fishing locations
• The biggest selection of gear (or the most competitive prices) locally
• Customized fishing experiences tailored to individual preferences

Now of course, you might have multiple USPs, perhaps you’re a captain who specializes in bowfishing, or marsh fishing, or luxurious sunset trips with gourmet meals, or maybe you boast the most extensive selection of bait and tackle in your area.

Most of our fishing guide clients have unique USPs beyond just offering “inshore fishing charters”—of course we won’t give them away here. After all, as the great philosopher William Dance once said: “There’s only one secret to fishing… Don’t tell anyone your secrets.”

Set Target Objectives

Set your marketing strategy’s goals and objectives to steer your business in the right direction.

For example, you might aim to:

• Increase sales of fishing gear by 10%.
• Expand your customer base to include a new target market.
• Boost customer engagement on social media.

To achieve this, consider advertising in local publications, hosting live bait demonstrations at your store, sharing useful fishing tips and techniques through videos and blog posts, or other digital marketing ideas for fishing businesses.

Organizing & Delegating Fishing Marketing Tasks

Break down your marketing strategies into manageable tasks and delegate responsibilities.

For instance, if live lure demonstrations are part of your strategy, you’d want to establish a schedule, invite product reps to answer questions, stock up on promotional giveaways, and secure skilled anglers to lead the sessions.

Then you’d promote your event through niche publications, social media, websites, and blogs. Oh, and don’t forget to send out press releases before and after the demonstration to create a buzz.

Easy, right?

But what if you’re already swamped with managing your fishing business and don’t have the time or expertise to handle all these marketing tasks?

That’s where we come in.

Page One Fishing: Digital Marketing Exclusively for Fishing & Marine Businesses

As a digital marketing agency that exclusively serves the fishing and marine industries, we have the expertise, passion, and creativity to help you reel in customers and stay ahead of the competition.

Here’s what you can expect when you partner with us:

• Tailored search engine optimization (SEO) and digital marketing strategies that align with your unique selling propositions and target audience.
• Expert content creation, including engaging blog posts, social media updates, and PPC ad optimization and management.
• Comprehensive online promotion of your events and campaigns through targeted channels.
• Ongoing support and guidance to help you navigate the constantly-changing digital marketing waters.

Don’t let your company’s internet marketing efforts flounder. Connect with us and discover how our team of fishing marketing experts can help you get more business. Learn more about our range of fishing marketing services or click here to contact us!