Earlier this week I posted an article about fishing in National Forests. A good number of people found it interesting enough to read, and I hope that it was also a useful reminder that there are millions of acres of public land that are accessible. Last year, I put together a similar article regarding National Parks. In a similar vein, my encouragement is to look for angling opportunities alongside of all the other outdoor recreation in federally managed lands.
The truth is that there is a lot more out there. A lot more land that you can fish, use, and enjoy.
With the most robust federal entrance pass (which I explain below) you get access to the following:
- National Parks
- National Wildlife Refuges
- National Forests & Grasslands
- Bureau of Land Management Sites
- Bureau of Reclamation Recreation Sites
- Army Corps of Engineers Sites
Of course, there are countless options for cultural, historical, and other outdoor-related activities that dwarf the available fishing across these diverse locations. But that isn’t a bad thing. It just means there is something for everyone. And there is still a lot of fishing. It usually just takes an inquisitive mind and the ability to click around federal websites and maps.
What are each of these federally managed lands?
The marquee sites across the country include parks, scenic trails, parkways, seashores, and historical sites.
These lands are set aside for conservation and management, but allow recreation that aligns with the purpose of each refuge.
The federal government oversees large swaths of land, balancing conservation, recreation, and sustainable resource use.
Bureau of Land Management Sites
Along with unique sites, the BLM works with the aforementioned agencies to oversee federally owned land.
Bureau of Reclamation Recreation Sites
This bureau manages water-based resources, such as dams, tailwaters, and diversions.
Within a wide variety of other military-related tasks, the Corps of Engineers works on dams, erosion, and other ecological construction projects.
The best way to access all of these sites is with the America the Beautiful Pass. For $80, you’re entrance and day use fees are covered for a whole year. There are other free ways to get in, too (4th graders, military, disabilities). My family usually gets our money’s worth by early spring.