JACKSON, MS (Mississippi News Now) -
Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial kick off to summer and the first busy weekend of the season for Smith Marine Service in Ridgeland.
Owner Buddy Smith says this year's sales are better than 2011 but still don't match 2006 numbers.
"The housing market took a crash. That always hurts the recreational market, but with that coming back around also that's gonna help out," explains Smith.
He has cut orders more than half from recent years. Smith says most buyers are looking for used boats to get a better price.
With 27 years of boating experience, Smith knows other factors play into how people spend their recreational dollars.
"I was worried about the gas prices killing everything on the sales, but so far with them coming down that's helped."
Smith's retail sales follow national trends.
In 2011 recreational boat sales, accessories and marine services increased six percent to more than $32 billion, according to the National Marine Manufacturers Association.
83 million Americans went boating last year. As it's popularity increases, so do sales.
Fishing and pontoon boat sales seem to be gaining the most steam.
Consumer confidence plays a big role in how extra cash will be spent but not all boaters are convinced the economy is a rising tide.
"I hope so. I don't know that the economy has turned around but I hope it has," says Vicksburg boater Daryl Hollingsworth.
"The gas prices are coming down thankfully. So, it just makes for funner days," adds Beth McMillon.
Consumer uncertainty is one reason why Smith's service department accounts for more business than boat sales.
Owners are making repairs rather than buying new boats.
"We used to have turnover every year to two years. Now, we're seeing five to eight years."
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