Anyone who knows Tennessee knows about its abundance of freshwater. Anglers in particular can thank the varied geography and Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) history of hydroelectric development for its verdant waterways and winding miles of shoreline both natural and manmade. The Volunteer State also has another treasured resource when it comes to fishing: Bill Dance. Known as “the world’s most-loved angler,” the pro bass fishing legend and longtime TV personality recently partnered with the state to continue introducing generations of outdoor adventurers to the joy of fishing.
The Bill Dance Signature Lakes program now showcases 14 world-class lakes across Tennessee, each selected and enhanced to provide top-tier fishing and recreation opportunities. The initiative combines habitat improvement, intensive fisheries management, stocking, access upgrades, and ongoing conservation to make Tennessee a leading destination for freshwater fishing across all skill levels. To date, the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency has already stocked over 13.1 million fish into the 14 Bill Dance Signature Lakes!
And though Dance is a true believer in these recreational opportunities, having long represented the state in his signature University of Tennessee ball cap, he is eager to explain exactly why these lakes (often adjacent to amenity-packed state parks) are so beloved. We recently sat down with Dance for a deeper look at Tennessee’s top lakes for premier fishing and summer trip planning.
Outside: What inspired you to partner with Tennessee on this initiative?
Bill Dance: Tennessee is family to me. It’s home—my people, my places. And we all go above and beyond for what we love. I am a native, my family are all Tennesseans. There’s a love and loyalty here, as I suspect it is with other regions, but it is hard for me to imagine it anywhere else, because all I know for sure is Tennessee. Also, we have been a partner with Tennessee Tourism for nearly 20 years.
What specifically about Tennessee separates it from other states?
Can there be a better place for fish-related projects than the Volunteer State? We have miles of water, from creeks, to rivers, to state park lakes, to TVA reservoirs. We literally have more species of fish than any other state (350 or so). Think about that for a minute: can there be a better place for a fisherman to be, than Tennessee?
And I do wear this T cap. True, I started wearing it because I thought it was lucky. But it’s funny, over time I wear it proudly for the love for this wonderful place I call home.
Which lake holds your most memorable fishing experience?
Hands down, it’s Pickwick Lake. I’ve always listed this lake as my home waters. Pickwick is where I learned (through the inspiration of veteran angler Glen Andrews) to fish deep, open water—and I mean 25-35 feet. I knew to be successful at tournament angling on the big stage, I’d have to learn to do this. The pursuit of this knowledge at my training ground of Pickwick led to tournament success, which led to TV shows, and so many more of my other accomplishments in the world of fishing.
The bottom line? Pickwick is simply a great place to fish, and that’s on the lake or in the tailrace below its dam. There’s something to fish for year-round. One can’t go wrong visiting Pickwick.
How has this initiative helped shape the future of fishing in Tennessee?
Few are the people that do not enjoy fishing. And honestly, I believe those that don’t enjoy it, have never been. The initiative is all about the opportunities fishing offers. True, it provides and enhances great places to go fishing. If you go to these lakes, you’ll catch fish and lots of them. But the complementing layers to the initiative are many; it will likewise boost economies in the area, and provide added recreational opportunities as well. People need added recreation in a hurried world. Together time is a big deal for family and friends. And few things can do this like the sport of fishing. I can only imagine the memories this initiative will spawn and the legacy it will have.
What advice do you have for first-time anglers visiting these lakes?
To begin, look for the specific areas that have marinas with guides. A guided trip is worth the money because novice anglers can learn so much in a very short amount of time. Another route could be to research the area via the Internet. With a little time on your laptop or phone, you’d be amazed what you can know about a new body of water before you ever make that first cast. Of course, actually calling someone (yes, I’m old school), isn’t a bad idea, either. A knowledgeable contact is a winning strategy, whether it’s sound advice at nearby chambers of commerce, visitor centers, or any other local contacts. They’re out there if you dig.
And once you’re at the lake?
Pick the brains of locals! Though all fishermen tell tales, my experience shows rare are the anglers who are not willing to help other newcomers to public waters catch fish…especially families. This is why the phrase, ‘What are they biting?’ is so woven into the fabric of fishing. We help each other.
What makes Tennessee stand out as a fishing destination in comparison to other states?
Variety. We have more fish species than any other state. It obviously comes from our geographic locale as well as our diversity of waters. On one end, Tennessee has the Mississippi River, one of the largest in the world, and Reelfoot Lake, the famed Quake Lake [created by early 1800s earthquakes]. As you move eastward, you find diverse oxbows, rivers and creeks, many Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency-managed lakes, huge TVA Reservoirs, and mountain streams, in the east. An angler only has to ask, ‘What do I want in the way of freshwater fishing,’ and Tennessee has it.
Beyond fishing, what activities make these lakes a regional draw for weekend adventures?
Again, Tennessee offers diversity in fishing opportunities, with so many geographical changes. Likewise, each area surrounding the lakes has its own regional charm. This includes the people, the dining, the lodging, the history, and cultural experience. Opportunities abound with a surprising number of added activities available if you research the areas you plan to visit. For example, maybe there’s a state park golf course you want to try, or a local diner that’s especially unique to the area. Off the water, ramble around and see exactly why so many of us love Tennessee.
What other off-water developments or lakeside curiosities would you consider must-do?
There’s so many. Picking just a few would do the others an injustice. It’s hard to go wrong with the Tennessee State Parks in affordability, lodging, food, etc. Our parks always seem to be a win-win. But don’t let me sway you. Do your research. Go and ramble about. That’s part of the fun: exploring. And sometimes fishing for the side-trips, especially on family outings, can be the most fun part of your angling adventure as well.
Bill Dance Signature Lakes is a collaborative effort between Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, Tennessee State Parks and Tennessee Department of Tourist Development to improve and enhance Tennessee Lakes, increase visitation and honor Dance’s legacy. Tennesseans will benefit from increased stocking, habitat and fisheries management, as well as improved access for fishing and boating at 14 designated lakes across the state. This multi-agency partnership has committed more than $25.4 million to improvements both above and below the water at lakes bearing Tennessee icon Bill Dance’s stamp of approval. For more information, visit billdancesignaturelakes.com