Hunting, Fishing and Shooting
Our national forests provide an endless number of fishing opportunities for the experienced and beginning angler. Beautiful rivers and streams, high mountain lakes or reservoirs and small ponds offer just about every setting one could ask for to relax and fish or just enjoy the magnificent scenery.
State laws apply to fishing laws and regulations on all national forests and grasslands. Some states prohibit putting fish remains into the waters, lakes, streams or rivers after you have cleaned and gutted your catch. Some states set limits on the number of fish you can catch and when. Other rules are imposed by the national forest and grassland, such as not fishing during derbies or in areas posted as closed. Know the rules before you angle to your favorite fishing spot.
Lake and Pond Fishing
State laws apply to fishing laws and regulations on all national forests and grasslands. Some states prohibit putting fish remains into the waters, lakes, streams or rivers after you have cleaned and gutted your catch. Some states set limits on the number of fish you can catch and when. Other rules are imposed by the national forest and grassland, such as not fishing during derbies or in areas posted as closed. Know the rules before you angle to your favorite fishing spot.
Ice Fishing
Don’t fish in areas where it is not permitted. These areas have been declared “off limits” to protect wildlife, vegetation, or for your safety.
When choosing a site for fishing, always consider safety factors. Because fishing is practiced in a variety of environments, evaluate factors specific to safety in each environment.
River and Stream Fishing
Don’t fish in areas where it is not permitted. These areas have been declared “off limits” to protect wildlife, vegetation, or for your safety. When choosing a site for fishing, always consider safety factors. Because fishing is practiced in a variety of environments, evaluate factors specific to safety in each environment. Use caution when baiting and removing hooks.
Hunting
Hunting activities are regulated by the corresponding state’s forest service office. Follow the state laws and regulations pertaining to hunting, including seasons, dates and licensing. For licenses, regulations and detailed game unit information, visit the corresponding state’s fish and game department.
While the Forest Service does not sell hunting licenses, a license is required to hunt in various states. Visit the corresponding state’s wildlife website for more hunting information.
Recreational and Target Shooting
According to the Code of Federal Regulations (title 36), recreational shooting can take place on the National Forests and Grasslands under these conditions:
- You are at least 150 yards from a residence, building, campsite, developed recreation area or occupied area
- You are not shooting across or on a National Forest System Road or an adjacent body of water.
- You are not shooting into or within a cave
- You are not shooting in any manner or place where any person, property or resource is exposed to injury or damage due to such discharge
- You are not firing any tracer bullet or incendiary ammunition.
Search for Hunting, Fishing and Shooting Opportunities
Cave Lake Loop Trail
Centerville Flat Dispersed Campground
Chain of Lakes
Changing Canyon Trailhead
Charity Valley East Trailhead
Chris Flat Campground
Clear Creek Trail (Table Mountain)
Clover Creek Trail
Colonel Moore Trail
Columbine Campground