Trump Says He Could Ban Fishing to Support Outdoor Industry
At a Rose Garden dinner, Donald Trump told outdoor enthusiasts he could ban fishing if it hurt the industry, while signing orders to expand hunting and fishing. He also highlighted White House renovations and a new helipad.
By Felo News Desk · Published
During a Thursday evening gathering in the White House Rose Garden, former President Donald Trump addressed a crowd of hunters, anglers, and industry leaders. The event, which celebrated outdoor recreation and the businesses that support it, also served as the backdrop for Trump’s signing of executive orders aimed at expanding hunting and fishing opportunities and rolling back certain restrictions imposed during the Biden administration.
Trump’s Light‑Hearted Threat to the Fishing Industry
Trump’s remarks were delivered with the characteristic bravado that has become synonymous with his public speaking style. He told the audience that, as president, he possessed the power to ban fishing entirely if it threatened the livelihoods of those in the sector. “I could have banned fishing and driven Johnny right the hell out of business,” Trump said, referring to Johnny Morris, the billionaire founder of Bass Pro Shops. He added that his executive orders would help extend the fishing season and boost sales of fishing gear.
While the comment was meant in jest, it underscored Trump’s broader agenda to support the outdoor industry. By signing orders that lift restrictions on hunting and fishing, the former president aimed to create a more favorable environment for businesses that rely on these activities.
Expanding Outdoor Opportunities
The executive orders signed at the dinner are part of a larger effort to broaden access to wildlife areas and fishing waters. They reverse several Biden‑era limits on hunting seasons and fishing permits, allowing more people to participate in these recreational activities. The orders also include provisions that simplify the permitting process for private landowners who wish to open their property to hunters and anglers.
Industry executives applauded the measures, noting that the changes could translate into increased sales for outdoor retailers, higher tourism revenue for rural communities, and greater conservation funding from hunting license fees.
White House Renovations and the New Helipad
In addition to his comments on the fishing industry, Trump highlighted recent renovation projects around the White House. He pointed out a new black‑and‑white granite helipad on the South Lawn, a feature designed to accommodate presidential helicopters. Trump described the helipad as a “beautiful eagle” carved into six‑inch‑thick granite, a first for the White House grounds.
During a separate Oval Office event in July, Trump revealed that Sikorsky Aircraft, a Lockheed Martin subsidiary, had contributed to the helipad’s construction. He noted that the company felt “a little guilty” for not warning about the power of the new fleet of helicopters, which had caused significant damage to the grass during testing. The helipad’s cost was estimated at $5–$6 million.
Historical Context and Future Plans
Trump compared his support for outdoor enthusiasts to that of former President Theodore Roosevelt, describing the late president as a “great friend” of hunters and fishermen. He suggested that no other president had been as supportive of the sector in recent decades.
Looking ahead, Trump hinted that the executive orders could be expanded further. He joked about issuing a temporary ban on fishing for a day or two as a playful demonstration of presidential power, though he clarified that the measures were intended to benefit the industry, not harm it.
What Happens Next?
The executive orders are now in effect, and the outdoor community is watching to see how the changes will play out. Industry leaders expect a boost in sales and increased participation in hunting and fishing activities. Meanwhile, conservation groups will monitor the environmental impact of expanded access to wildlife areas.
As the White House continues to make renovations and new infrastructure projects, the administration will likely keep outdoor recreation in the spotlight, balancing economic interests with environmental stewardship.
Key facts
- Trump joked he could ban fishing to protect the industry
- Executive orders expand hunting and fishing opportunities
- White House added a new granite helipad
- Sikorsky Aircraft helped fund the helipad
- Trump compared his support to Theodore Roosevelt
- Future policy changes are anticipated
Why it matters
Trump’s comments and the executive orders signal a shift in federal policy that could reshape the outdoor recreation economy, affecting businesses, consumers, and conservation efforts.
Frequently asked questions
What executive orders did Trump sign at the dinner?
The orders expanded hunting and fishing seasons and simplified permitting for private landowners.
Who funded the new White House helipad?
Sikorsky Aircraft, a Lockheed Martin subsidiary, contributed $5–$6 million to the project.
Did Trump actually ban fishing?
No, the ban was a humorous remark; the orders aim to increase access, not restrict it.
Sources
- [1] independent.co.uk — originally reported as “Trump tells outdoorsmen at White House dinner he is so powerful he could ban fishing”
