Landmark Increase in Hunting Access to Federal Land on the Horizon

The Department of Interior has released details of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s (USFWS) proposed expansion of hunting and sport fishing opportunities, the largest in agency history. National Park Service actions to remove unnecessary hunting-related restrictions across National Park System units—where hunting is authorized by law—were also included in the announcement.

“America’s public lands belong to the American people, and they should be able to access them without unnecessary bureaucracy standing in the way,” said Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum. “Under President Donald J. Trump’s leadership, we are expanding opportunities for hunters and anglers, reducing duplicative restrictions and making federal land management more practical, consistent and accessible.”

As part of the announcement, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is proposing to open or expand more than 1,450 hunting and sport fishing opportunities across 111 stations in 32 states, including 107 national wildlife refuges and four national fish hatcheries. The proposal would make more than 92 million acres—over 95 percent of National Wildlife Refuge System lands—available for hunting. It also includes first-ever hunting or sport fishing opportunities at 14 refuges and three hatcheries.

“Hunting and fishing are deeply rooted American traditions that support conservation, connect families to the outdoors and strengthen local economies,” said U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Director Brian Nesvik. “We are proud to expand access while continuing to fulfill our conservation mission and responsibly manage these lands and waters for future generations.”

The proposed rule would also simplify federal regulations through more than 500 revisions and deletions to outdated or duplicative provisions, helping align refuge requirements with state fish and wildlife laws. The changes would make compliance easier for hunters and anglers.

Details and locations are included in the Federal Register announcement. Public comments are accepted until June 26.

National Park Service

Separately, the National Park Service is proposing the removal of unnecessary hunting-related closures and restrictions in units where the pursuit is authorized by law. The change would improve consistency, reduce duplicative requirements and eliminate barriers that exceed what is necessary for public safety, resource protection or legal compliance.

These updates focus on removing unnecessary park-specific restrictions that duplicate state wildlife regulations or repeat existing federal requirements, making it easier for visitors to understand applicable hunting rules while respecting the primary role of states in wildlife management.

“Americans should be able to access and enjoy their public lands without navigating unnecessary bureaucracy,” said Jessica Bowron, comptroller, exercising the delegated authority of the director of the National Park Service. “These changes improve clarity, reduce duplication and expand access where appropriate while ensuring the National Park Service continues to protect the extraordinary natural and cultural resources entrusted to our care.”

Hunting and fishing remain subject to applicable federal law, public safety requirements and resource protection standards. Hunting is only permitted in National Park System units where authorized by law, and fish and wildlife access on refuges remains subject to compatibility determinations and conservation requirements.

“Today’s announcement by Secretary Burgum, together with USFWS Director Brian Nesvik and National Park Service Acting Director Jessica Bowron, should be celebrated by all Americans, including hunters, recreational target shooters and everyone who enjoys experiencing the great and beautiful American outdoors,” said Lawrence G. Keane, National Shooting Sports Foundation senior vice president for Government and Public Affairs. “This is yet another major step by President Donald J. Trump and his administration carrying through on their promises to deliver for America's hunters and conservationists.”