Starting on March 13, 2025, the Government of Canada is imposing 25% tariffs on $29.8 billion in products imported from the U.S. — the list of items includes fishing rods, hooks, nets, lines, and other tackle, according to a recent announcement made by the Canadian government. The announcement explained that these new tariffs would remain in place until the U.S. eliminates its tariffs against Canadian steel and aluminum products. Negotiations between the two nations are ongoing, and might ease trade tensions, but the tariffs remain in effect for the time being.
As the Trump administration moves forward with its trade agenda, the sportfishing industry is feeling the effects of new tariffs on imported goods, including fishing equipment. The administration has prioritized correcting trade imbalances, often using tariffs as a tool. Ongoing trade negotiations are leading to frequent updates to U.S. trade policies.
A 2019 study done by the American Sportfishing Association (ASA) found that about 60% of fishing equipment sold in the U.S. is imported, with two-thirds of those imports coming from China. The ASA says the new tariffs disproportionately affect the sportfishing industry, which already pays a 10% excise tax on fishing gear that helps fund conservation and public access efforts through the Sport Fish Restoration Fund.
The most significant actions impacting the sportfishing industry include tariffs on products from China, Canada, and Mexico, as well as tariffs on aluminum used in fishing reels, reel parts, and landing nets. These actions have been reportedly implemented for various reasons, such as addressing fentanyl trafficking, illegal immigration, and correcting trade imbalances. However, the details of how these tariffs will be enforced are still evolving.
Key Tariff Actions
- On Feb. 13, President Trump directed officials to develop reciprocal tariffs targeting countries with large trade deficits, including China, Canada, Mexico, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and the European Union. A report is due by April 1.
- On March 4, 2025, the U.S. will implement 25% tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico, following delays. The move responds to concerns about fentanyl shipments. The tariffs will be applied once systems are in place to collect tariff revenue.
- On March 4, the 10% tariff on Chinese imports was increased to 20%. De minimis eligibility for Chinese products will be removed, though implementation is delayed until systems are in place to enforce it.
- On March 7, U.S. Customs & Border Protection issued guidance on the tariffs for aluminum derivative products. It also provided instructions for importers to ensure the tariff is applied correctly. On March 12, the President plans to raise the tariff on aluminum from 10% to 25%, affecting fishing reels, reel accessories, and landing nets. These tariffs will target the aluminum content, not the entire product.
- On March 12, Canada announced retaliatory tariffs on U.S. fishing products, including rods, nets, and tackle. The 25% tariff will take effect on March 13 and remain in place until the U.S. removes tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum.
The Fishing Industry Hangs Tight
There is currently no way for manufacturers to seek exemptions from these tariffs, and only continued negotiations between the White House and Canadian authorities can alter them.
