The Department of the Interior has announced a significant expansion of hunting and sport fishing opportunities across various national refuges and hatcheries. According to a press release from the department, 42 new opportunities will be available across more than 87,000 acres, managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. These changes will be incorporated into the 2025-2026 hunting seasons commencing on September 2, 2025.
Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum emphasized the importance of these traditional pastimes for conservation efforts, stating, "Hunting and fishing are more than just traditional pastimes, as they are also vital to the conservation of our lands and waters, our outdoor recreation economy, and our American way of life." This move clearly aims to not only preserve but also to promote outdoor activities and demonstrates the current administration's efforts to reduce regulatory burdens on the public.
Newly opened or expanded hunting and fishing areas include locations across Alabama, California, Idaho, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Montana, North Carolina, Texas, and Washington. The specificity of these locations was chosen to align closely with state fish and wildlife regulations, creating a seamless transition for hunting and fishing enthusiasts. The department indicates that coordination with states was key to ensure consistency with regulation updates.
Brian Nesvik, Director of the Fish and Wildlife Service, highlighted the economic benefits of these activities citing a Service's survey that outdoor activities contributed more than $394 billion in economic expenditures in 2022. "We are pleased to offer these new hunting and fishing opportunities that are compatible with our conservation mission," Nesvik told the Department of the Interior. The emphasis is on leveraging these pursuits to support wildlife population management, outdoor stewardship, and local economies.
The final rule, along with a complete list of all units opening or expanding hunting and fishing opportunities, is set to publish on August 28, 2025, in the Federal Register and will be available for review at the regulations website under Docket Number: FWS-HQ-NWRS-2025-0031. The administration's commitment to the outdoors not only meets a set mandate for reducing federal regulations but also reconnects individuals to nature and the timeless American heritage of hunting and fishing.
