For Immediate Release 

May 29, 2026 

Contact: 

Media@backcountryhunters.org 

 

BHA Welcomes USFWS Expansion of Hunting, Fishing Opportunities 

Public Lands Advocacy Group Encourages its Members to Review Proposed Regulation Changes in Detail 

Washington, D.C.—Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) is encouraging hunters and anglers to review and engage in the public comment process for the Department of the Interior’s newly proposed rule expanding hunting and fishing opportunities across the National Wildlife Refuge System and National Fish Hatchery System. 

 

The proposal from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) would open or expand hunting and sport fishing opportunities at 111 federal field stations, including 107 national wildlife refuges and four national fish hatcheries, across 32 states. According to the Department, the proposal would create more than 1,450 new hunting and fishing opportunities, including first-ever hunting or fishing access at several refuges and hatcheries. BHA applauds all efforts to responsibly expand and improve public access for hunters and anglers and appreciates the Administration’s recognition of the important role sportsmen and women play in the conservation and stewardship of public lands and waters. 

 

A Closer Look 

BHA is simultaneously encouraging its members, supporters and the broader sporting community to closely review the proposal and provide feedback to ensure all changes are implemented thoughtfully, sustainably, and in a manner that supports long-term conservation outcomes across the National Wildlife Refuge System. Those with a refuge in their state are encouraged to use the link below to see how access may be impacted by these proposed changes. 

 

In addition to expanding hunting and fishing access, the proposed rule would: 

• Open new upland game, migratory bird, and big game hunting opportunities on additional refuge acres; 

• Expand public access to sport fishing opportunities at previously closed locations; 

• Rescind nine previously-finalized nonlead ammunition and fishing tackle requirements at select refuges that were scheduled to take effect in 2026; and request additional comment on lead regulations; 

• Update station-specific regulations to reflect current management practices and recreational opportunities; 

• Make more than 500 revisions or deletions to existing refuge-specific regulations with the intent of simplifying rules, removing outdated provisions, reducing regulatory burdens, and improving consistency with state fish and wildlife management frameworks; 

 

Adequate Staffing, Funding Essential 

BHA also notes that expanding access to the National Wildlife Refuge System must be matched by meaningful investments in staffing and resources needed to manage these lands and waters effectively. Refuge managers, biologists, maintenance crews, firefighters, and law enforcement staff play a critical role in maintaining habitat, supporting public access, and ensuring quality hunting and fishing opportunities for future generations. BHA continues to advocate for the full staffing of our federal land management agencies to conserve our wildlife refuges for our future generations of hunters and anglers. 

 

A Deeper Dive 

Previously, BHA has applauded the USFWS’s past efforts to expand the decision to expand its voluntary lead-free ammunition incentive program. For more on BHA’s policy position on the use of lead ammunition and fishing tackle, click here. 

 

BHA encourages hunters and anglers to review the proposed rule and make their voices heard through the public comment process. 

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Backcountry Hunters & Anglers seeks to ensure North America’s outdoor heritage of hunting and fishing in a natural setting through education and work on behalf of wild public lands, waters, and wildlife. To learn more about issues important to BHA’s membership, visit https://www.backcountryhunters.org/get-involved/issues.