Early 2026 Data Reflects Continued Market Softness

Performance across key segments remained mixed heading into the 2026 selling season. Freshwater fishing boats, the industry's largest retail segment, remained relatively flat year-over-year at 54,199 units sold and accounting for 34% of all retail sales through February. Outboard boats have the largest volume, representing 67% of total retail sales with a 6.9% decline on a rolling 12-month basis. Meanwhile, personal watercraft and pontoon boats saw declines of 10.8% and 12.5%, respectively, reflecting continued pressure on discretionary spending categories.

Key economic indicators continue to impact the boating market. Consumer confidence (91.2) and sentiment (56.6) remain subdued, and interest rates (with the 30-year mortgage fixed at 6.0%continue to affect affordability for large discretionary purchases like boats. With just two months of data available, it's early to read too much into 2026's trajectory, but the spring selling season will be an important indicator of where buyer appetite stands.

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