In a major win for America’s hunting community, the Trump administration has announced the expansion of hunting and fishing access across 87,000 acres of federal land—doubling the amount opened by the Biden administration.
U.S. Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum, a strong Second Amendment supporter and former pro-gun governor of North Dakota, unveiled the plan last week. The expansion will include 42 national wildlife refuges and fish hatcheries in states like Texas, Idaho, Montana, North Carolina, Michigan, and more—just in time for the 2025-2026 hunting season.
“This is a clear victory for the American outdoorsman,” Burgum said. “We’re opening more land, supporting rural economies, and protecting our heritage—all while following responsible conservation practices.”
Fighting Back Against Federal Overreach
One of the most critical aspects of the new policy is its rejection of the Biden-era push to ban traditional lead ammo and tackle on federal lands. Instead, Burgum emphasized cooperation with states and respect for hunters’ rights, saying the federal government will mirror state laws rather than impose top-down restrictions.
This approach signals a sharp turnaround from the previous administration’s attempt to restrict access through backdoor regulations on ammunition and gear.
Gun Industry and Hunters Applaud the Move
The National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), which represents the American firearms industry, praised the Trump team’s action.
“This is a huge win for hunters, anglers, and every American who values our outdoor freedoms,” said Mark Oliva, NSSF’s Director of Public Affairs. “President Trump and Secretary Burgum continue to deliver for the men and women who cherish America’s wild lands and our God-given right to use them.”
Oliva also highlighted the unmatched role the gun and ammo industry plays in conservation. “Over $29 billion has been raised through the Pittman-Robertson tax on firearms and ammunition,” he said. “That’s the backbone of habitat restoration and public land access across America. Last year alone, nearly $900 million of those funds went directly to states for conservation efforts.”
Outdoor Recreation Powers America
According to the latest federal survey, outdoor recreation pumped $394 billion into the U.S. economy in 2022—with hunters and anglers contributing $144 billion of that. More than 14 million Americans hunted, and over 46 million participated in recreational shooting.
This expansion is more than just a policy win—it’s a recommitment to the uniquely American model of “user-pays, public-benefits,” where hunters and sportsmen fund conservation and preserve traditions for future generations.
What’s Next
The proposed access changes will be open for public comment in the Federal Register, with the goal of finalizing the rule before the 2025 fall hunting season. If approved, it will mark another major step forward in restoring access to public lands and protecting America’s outdoor legacy.
Whether you’re a lifelong hunter or a weekend sportsman, the Trump administration just gave you more freedom—and more land—to enjoy it.
