The Sport Fish Restoration Program was created in 1950 to restore and better manage America's declining fish resources.

What We Do

Our Services

Staff from Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources sample fish populations using throw nets.

The Sport Fish Restoration program provides funds to fish and wildlife agencies of the states, the District of Columbia, and U.S. territories for fishery projects, boating access, and aquatic education. It was created in 1950, with the passing of the Sport Fish Restoration Act (a.k.a., the Dingell-Johnson Act). Modeled after the successful Wildlife Restoration Act, the Sport Fish Restoration Act dedicated permanent funding for fishery conservation.

Since the Act was passed, it has generated over $8 billion for the conservation and restoration of sport fish species and their habitats. These funds also support connecting people with nature through outdoor recreational opportunities and aquatic resources education programs.

Revenue comes from manufacturers’ excise taxes on sport fishing equipment, import duties on fishing tackle and pleasure boats, and the portion of the gasoline fuel tax attributable to small engines and motorboats.

Our Library

FY 23 - Certificate of Apportionment for Dingell-Johnson Sport Fish Restoration

Final fiscal year 2023 apportionments, by state and territory, for the Dingell-Johnson Sport Fish Restoration Fund. These funds are administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Wildlife and Sportfish Restoration Program.

FY 23 - SFR Final apportionment table

Final Fiscal Year 2023 Certificate of Apportionments for Dingell-Johnson Sport Fish Restoration Fund.