Angling for Some Fun: Bill Dance Lends Legacy to Support Tennessee’s Lakes

Iconic sportsman Bill Dance might be redubbed Saint Nick this season by Tennessee anglers. Today, Governor Bill Lee and iconic sportsman, Bill Dance announced a new program in partnership with Tennessee Department of Tourist Development (TDTD), Tennessee State Parks and Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) to improve infrastructure at select lakes and increase angler visitation statewide. Tennessee Wildlife Federation was excited to weigh in on the project to provide conservationist and NGO perspective. We believe the program can marry responsible use and appreciation for Tennessee’s amazing lakes with sport and tourism.

The program will brand select Tennessee waterways with an iconic Tennessee name synonymous with fishing, Bill Dance. Tennessee’s Bill Dance Signature Lakes, a statewide program, will identify stand-out lakes through a criteria-based program to showcase a diverse offering of experiences to reach all skill levels of anglers. Infrastructure improvements, both above water and below, along with branding and marketing. Tennesseans will benefit from increased stocking, habitat and fisheries management, as well as improved access for fishing and boating.

We know that anglers, like other sportsmen and women, are vocal advocates for conserving our wildlife and wild lands. This program can provide the support to make Tennessee a best-in-class destination for anglers worldwide, but perhaps more importantly, shed light on the importance of conserving Tennessee’s wildlife and wild lands. We’re excited to share what so many Tennessee anglers already know–that Tennessee has some of the best lakes and variety of fish in the country! You can read more about the program here.