Anglers across the country got access to more places to fish this summer as the US Fish and Wildlife Service announced news of 53 new distinct hunting and sport fishing opportunities on approximately 211,000 acres nationwide in the National Wildlife Refuge System.  In the announcement from the agency, anglers can find place plenty of places to fish near home. The news included a dozen wildlife refuges where anglers can fish for dozens of exciting species of fish...and not just trout!

Twelve national wildlife refuges may be open and included expanded opportunities for hunting and fishing. These refuges are in Kentucky, Louisiana, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Carolina, Texas, Washington, West Virginia and Wisconsin. These include first ever hunting opportunities on Green River National Wildlife Refuge, expanded waterfowl and archery deer hunting on newly acquired acres at Bayou Teche National Wildlife Refuge and expanded fishing on Horicon National Wildlife Refuge. Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge in Illinois is proposing to close 111 acres to hunting for other visitor uses, including camping.

Across the country there is a national wildlife refuge within an hour’s drive of most major metropolitan areas. There 571 national wildlife refuges and 38 wetland management districts. More than 68 million Americans visit refuges every year. National wildlife refuges provide vital habitat for thousands of species and access to world-class recreation, from fishing, hunting and boating to nature watching, photography and environmental education.

“Hunting and fishing are traditional recreational activities deeply rooted in America’s heritage. Today, nearly 80 percent of Service stations offer hunting and fishing access that helps boost local economies and connects people with nature,” said Service Director Martha Williams. “We are pleased to expand access and offer new opportunities that are compatible with National Wildlife Refuge System purposes and are committed to responsibly manage wildlife health and these areas for the benefit of future generations.”

To discover even more places to fish, use onWater Fish to explore the complete list of all refuges opening or expanding opportunities is available in the proposed rule in this online list.

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