As any angler in Colorado knows, finding good fishing spots can be challenging, even on public lands. In Colorado only 975,000 acres of a total of 2.8 million acres of state trust lands are open to the public. That leaves nearly 2 million acres as not accessible. This lack of designation cuts off access to the general public. If you dream of better public access, join Backcountry Hunters & Anglers and support public access to Colorado’s state trust lands.
As the demand grows for more access to public lands, we are proud to support Backcountry Hunters & Anglers in working to ensure Coloradans of all backgrounds and incomes have an equal opportunity to fish and hunt on state trust lands.
Learn More and Sign the Petition Today.
What are state trust lands?
State trust lands are areas of land in Colorado that are managed by the State Land Board, with the goal of generating revenue for public schools and other public institutions. These lands are currently leased to private entities for agricultural and commercial use, and public access is limited.
Why is the BHA petitioning to open state trust lands to public hunting and fishing?
The BHA believes that state trust lands should be accessible to the public, especially for hunting and fishing. By opening up these lands, more opportunities will be created for anglers and hunters to explore new areas and enjoy the natural beauty of Colorado. Additionally, allowing public access to these lands will generate revenue for public schools and other public institutions.
What are the potential benefits of opening up state trust lands to public hunting and fishing?
Providing new opportunities for anglers and hunters to explore new areas and fish different bodies of water.
Helping ease overcrowding at popular fishing spots.
Generating revenue for public schools and other public institutions.
Encouraging people to spend more time outdoors and enjoy the natural beauty of Colorado.
For you, the angler, the petition to open Colorado’s state trust lands to public hunting and fishing is an effort to create more opportunities for anglers and hunters to explore new areas and enjoy the natural beauty of Colorado. It is a step toward ensuring that everyone has access to the state’s natural resources and can enjoy outdoor activities like fishing.
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Backcountry Hunters & Anglers(BHA) along with onWater have worked to ensure access and habitat are protected and preserved. To learn more to support access on Colorado’s state trust lands, visit and consider joining the Colorado Chapter of BHA.
