By Chad Tokowicz, MRAA Government Relations Manager
In early April, leaders from across the recreational fishing industry gathered in Washington, D.C. for the inaugural American Sportfishing Association (ASA) Keep America Fishing Fly-In. The event, a coordinated advocacy effort, was designed to bring industry perspectives directly to Capitol Hill.
For the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas (MRAA), the event provided an opportunity to ensure the recreational boating industry’s priorities were part of those conversations from the outset. Among those representing the recreational boating industry were the MRAA’s Mike Sayre, Director of Government Relations, and Chad Tokowicz, Government Relations Manager.
Nearly 120 industry leaders attended ASA’s Keep America Fishing Fly-In. They carried one unified message focused on protecting and advancing the future of sportfishing in America.
Leading the West Coast Delegation
During the fly-in, Tokowicz and Sayre helped lead the West Coast Hill group, which included participants from Idaho, Washington, Alaska and other Pacific states. Partnering with Larry Phillips, ASA Pacific States Policy Director, the MRAA tandem guided the group through a packed schedule of congressional meetings.
For many in the delegation, this marked their first time navigating Capitol Hill, which is no small task given the complexity of the House and Senate office buildings. Relying on their experience, Tokowicz and Sayre ensured the group arrived on time to each meeting and provided essential context on how to effectively communicate with legislative staff. Their leadership helped participants stay focused on what mattered most, delivering a strong, unified message on behalf of the recreational fishing industry and their businesses.
Beyond policy discussions, the ASA event created valuable opportunities for relationship-building. Tokowicz and Sayre connected with new congressional staff, strengthened existing relationships and gained deeper insight into the evolving priorities shaping federal policy. Additionally, these connections are essential because advocacy is not a one-time event. It’s an ongoing effort that depends on trust, consistency and engagement.
Policy Priorities Discussed
During the fly-in, participants discussed several policy priorities that directly affect both the recreational fishing and boating industries. These included:
- Reauthorization of the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund, a cornerstone program supporting conservation, access and infrastructure
- Pinniped predation on salmon and steelhead populations — a growing concern for West Coast fisheries
- Broader challenges around habitat, access and management of anadromous fish species
Furthermore, by sharing insights from the recreational boating industry, MRAA ensured policymakers understood how these issues impact anglers as well as marine retailers, manufacturers and the broader boating economy.
Strengthening Industry Alignment Through Shared Policy Priorities
Policies like the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund are foundational to both sectors and not siloed. One of the most important takeaways from the fly-in event is the clear alignment between the recreational boating and sportfishing industries. From funding public access and conservation projects to supporting boating infrastructure, these programs demonstrate how closely linked our industries truly are. Events like the Keep America Fishing Fly-In highlight the power of collaboration. Moreover, when boating and fishing stakeholders speak with one voice, the impact is amplified on Capitol Hill.
Looking Ahead
The success of the inaugural Keep America Fishing Fly-In sets a strong foundation for future advocacy efforts. Events like this reinforce a core priority for the MRAA by ensuring the recreational boating industry has a seat at the decision-making table. Through leadership, collaboration and a commitment to shared goals, Tokowicz and Sayre demonstrated how coordinated, relationship-driven advocacy advance shared industry priorities.
Consequently, as the relationship between boating and fishing continues to grow, so too does the opportunity to drive meaningful outcomes for both industries, and the millions of Americans who enjoy life on the water.
Reach out to the MRAA Advocacy team to learn more or get involved with recreational boating advocacy.
