President Donald Trump has signed executive orders aimed at expanding hunting and fishing opportunities on federal lands while directing agencies to review and roll back certain restrictions.
According to Fox News on September 18, 2026, Trump signed the orders on September 17 during an event with hunters, anglers and outdoor industry representatives at the White House.
The administration said the measures are intended to increase public access to federal lands and waters and promote hunting and fishing across the country.
One provision drew an unexpected reaction from Trump himself.
While reading remarks about the order, Trump paused when he reached a provision concerning traditional lead ammunition.
“I never knew this was a problem, Doug,” Trump said, referring to Interior Secretary Doug Burgum. He then asked whether lead ammunition was a problem and whether other ammunition was better.
“I don't know what the hell that means, but I know one thing: you wanted it, you wanted it, and I'm here for you,” Trump told the audience before continuing with his remarks.
The executive order specifically directs federal agencies to propose policies that would permit the use of traditional lead ammunition and fishing tackle on applicable federal lands.
Expanding Access to Federal Lands
Under the order, the Interior Department has 90 days to allow hunting of certain species not protected under the Endangered Species Act in Castle Mountains National Monument and Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve.
The order also directs the Interior, Agriculture, War and Commerce departments to propose changes within 180 days that could expand hunting, fishing, shooting and other recreational access to federally managed lands.
Officials are also directed to examine ways to improve access to difficult-to-reach federal lands through voluntary easements, land exchanges and agreements with states and local governments.
The order further calls for federal agencies to encourage Sunday hunting opportunities, streamline seasonal migratory bird hunting regulations and support programs designed to introduce young Americans and veterans to hunting and fishing.
Why Lead Ammunition Is Controversial
Lead ammunition has long been a subject of debate because fragments can remain in hunted animals and may be consumed by scavenging wildlife.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has encouraged hunters to use lead-free ammunition, warning that lead fragments left in animal remains can be consumed by wildlife, including bald and golden eagles.
Trump's order takes a different approach by directing agencies to allow traditional lead ammunition and tackle on federal lands covered by the order.
The administration argues that the measure protects access and reduces restrictions on hunters and anglers.
Trump Says More Federal Land Will Be Available
Trump also pointed to previous actions by his administration that he said had opened additional federal acreage to hunters and anglers.
During his remarks, he said an earlier action had opened another 92 million acres across 32 states. He described the latest orders as part of a broader effort to make federal lands more accessible for outdoor recreation.
The orders do not automatically open every federal property to hunting or fishing. Instead, several provisions direct federal agencies to review existing policies and propose changes within specified time frames, subject to existing law.
The move is likely to keep the debate over federal land management, hunting access and wildlife conservation in the spotlight as agencies begin implementing the administration's directives.