Proposed Expansion of Hunting and Fishing Access Marks Major Win for Public Lands
Hunters and anglers across the country have reason to celebrate following a newly announced proposal from the U.S. Department of the Interior and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to significantly expand hunting and sport fishing access on federal lands.
The proposal would open or expand more than 1,450 hunting and fishing opportunities across 111 federal stations in 32 states, including 107 National Wildlife Refuges and four National Fish Hatcheries. More than 92 million acres, over 95% of National Wildlife Refuge System lands, would be available for hunting access.
At a time when access remains one of the biggest challenges facing hunters and anglers nationwide, proposals like this are historic. America’s public lands belong to the public, and ensuring responsible access helps preserve outdoor traditions while strengthening the connection between people and wildlife conservation. For sportsmen and women, it’s also a reminder that public lands, public access, and wildlife conservation are deeply interconnected.
Importantly, hunting and fishing opportunities on National Wildlife Refuges are only permitted when determined to be compatible with each refuge’s conservation mission. That balance is essential. Healthy wildlife populations and quality habitat remain the foundation of sustainable hunting and fishing opportunities, and science-based management continues to guide both.
Hunters and anglers have long been among the nation’s leading conservationists. Through licenses, tags, excise taxes, duck stamps, and conservation advocacy, sportsmen and women directly contribute billions of dollars toward fish and wildlife management, habitat restoration, and public access projects nationwide. Expanding opportunities to participate in hunting and fishing helps strengthen that conservation model while also helping recruit future outdoor advocates.
The proposal would also simplify and modernize federal regulations by revising or removing hundreds of outdated rules and better aligning federal management with state wildlife frameworks. According to the Department of the Interior, the effort is intended to reduce unnecessary barriers to access while maintaining conservation standards and public safety protections.
Expanded access also benefits rural communities and local economies that depend on outdoor recreation. Hunting and fishing supports jobs, small businesses, outfitters, guides, conservation organizations, and community infrastructure across the country. Public lands and access opportunities do not stay protected without continued engagement from hunters, anglers, and conservationists. As this proposal moves through the public comment process, it serves as an important reminder that we continue to play a vital role in shaping the future of conservation and outdoor access in America.
The proposal is currently open for a 30-day public comment period through Regulations.gov. Hunters, anglers, and public lands advocates are encouraged to stay informed and participate in the process. When we invest in access, support science-based wildlife management, and conserve the public lands that belong to all Americans, wildlife and outdoor traditions benefit.
