COLUMBIA, S.C. — The South Carolina Boating and Fishing Alliance once again will showcase South Carolina-made boats and fishing tackle at Gamecock Village when South Carolina takes on the Texas A&M Aggies October 22. SCBFA is the title sponsor of the game.
Boats up to 40 feet long and fishing tackle made by South Carolina-based companies will be on display before and after the game, showcasing companies that contribute $5 billion a year to South Carolina’s economy and support 23,000 jobs.
The SCBFA first made its first appearance at last year’s game against Kentucky. The Gamecock athletics department estimated more than 20,000 fans visited Gamecock Village to see one of the state’s top industries on display.
“Last year’s boating and fishing showcase was one of the most successful Gamecock Village marketing campaigns we’ve ever had. This year’s will be bigger and better and we’re proud to be associated with the SCBFA,” said Eric Nichols, the university’s senior associate athletic director and chief marketing officer.
Besides iconic boat and fishing tackle brands, there will be activities for fans of every age, courtesy of the S. C. Waterfowl Association and the S. C. Department of Natural Resources. Tackle companies will have casting contests.
Founded in 2021, SCBFA’s membership includes boat and fishing tackle manufacturers, dealers, retailers, and individual boaters and anglers.
South Carolina per capita is among the national leaders in outdoor recreation, with 725,000 fishing licenses and 500,000 registered boats.
“South Carolinians are passionate about their boating, fishing and football. Having the opportunity to combine all three passions at the same time on gameday is a real honor for us,” said Chris Butler, board chairman of the S C. Boating and Fishing Alliance.
About the South Carolina Boating and Fishing Alliance
The South Carolina Boating and Fishing Alliance (SCBFA) is a nonprofit organization representing the state’s boat and fishing tackle manufacturers, who have a $5 billion a year economic impact in the state and support 23,000 jobs. Industry members, along with dealers, retailers, boaters and anglers, are working together to protect and grow this important economic sector while engaging in public policy issues to conserve the state’s important waterways. The SCBFA was officially launched in February 2021. Chris Butler of Butler Marine chairs the SCBFA.
For more information, visit www.SCBFA.com.
