NMMA Applauds Interior Announcement to Expand Hunting and Fishing Access at Refuges and Hatcheries
The Department of the Interior announced on Wednesday that it will expand hunting and sport fishing opportunities across more than 87,000 acres within the National Wildlife Refuge System and the National Fish Hatchery System. The expansion creates 42 new opportunities at 16 refuges and one hatchery, opening access in Alabama, California, Idaho, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Montana, North Carolina, Texas, and Washington.
NMMA applauds the announcement as a win for boaters, anglers, and all outdoor recreation enthusiasts:
"Expanding access to fishing and outdoor recreation is a major win for America’s boating and outdoor community,” said Frank Hugelmeyer, NMMA President and CEO. “Recreational boaters and anglers have always been among the greatest stewards of our nation’s waters, and our industry is built on ensuring that every family has the opportunity to connect with the water and enjoy our natural resources. We commend Secretary Burgum and the Department of the Interior for making access a priority, which strengthens local economies, supports conservation, and reinforces our shared commitment to the outdoors.”
The recreational boating industry supports more than 800,000 jobs across the U.S. and generates $230 billion in economic activity. The industry is a major contributor to the $1.2 trillion outdoor recreation economy.
The final rule was published in the Federal Register on August 28, 2025 (Docket Number: FWS-HQ-NWRS-2025-0031 linked here: (https://www.regulations.gov/document/FWS-HQ-NWRS-2025-0031-0201) and will be effective for the 2025-2026 hunting and fishing seasons beginning September 2, 2025.