Are boat sales an indicator of economic bounce-back?

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Recreational boating is a big business.  Nationwide the boating industry generates about $30 billion a year.  In Kansas and Missouri, people playing on the water help keep both states economies afloat.

 “Thousands of jobs will be generated between manufacturing as well as servicing the product and selling the product as well, marinas, gas stations on the water, restaurants what have you,” said Mark Adams, manager of the Kansas City Boat Show.

Adams his job is to make sure the Kansas City Boat and Sport show, which opens later this week, is a success.  He says all indications are that it will be, with 3 to 400 boats on display, making this year’s event bigger and better than ever.

Despite the sinking economy the boating business is making a comeback.

It started last year with about a six percent hike in boat sales.  Randy Tague from Viking Marine says even soaring gas prices didn't keep people off the lakes.

“We did see everybody cut down on the amount they used their boat under power. The amount of time they spent on their boat I don't think changed at all,” said Tague.

The boat show has something for everyone with free fishing for the kids and even a pool for those who want to try scuba diving.  And for the serious boat buyer there's good news for you too.

“Yes there are deals here. The financing is the best it's been in maybe ever that I’ve seen,” said Tague.

The boat show is at Bartle Hall Thursday Jan. 19 through Sunday Jan. 22, and kids under 15 get in free.