Take action - Tell Congress to reauthorize the Dingell-Johnson Act

Fishing © Marek Trawczynski

The Dingell-Johnson Act, passed in 1950, was created as a "user pay, public benefit" system that has become the foundation for the American fisheries conservation model - rivaled the world over.

For 75 years, Dingell-Johnson has generated over $12 billion to support fishery restoration, boating access, and infrastructure for recreational anglers. In 2024 alone, $381 million was invested back into all 50 states to support over 320 state fish hatcheries, 9,000 access sites, and engage 850,000 students in conservation and fishing programs — protecting treasured fish species while motivating the next generation of anglers.

The current authorization of Dingell-Johnson is set to expire in late 2026. If Congress does not reauthorize this legislation by then, the hundreds of millions of dollars generated through this program each year will disappear.

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