Bill Dance Signature Lakes
Program Overview
Bill Dance Signature Lakes will connect the world’s most-loved angler with some of Tennessee’s greatest natural resources — its lakes. Already known for its premier fishing spots, this program will make Tennessee a best-in-class destination for anglers worldwide — beginners, experts and every skill level in between.
ABOUT BILL DANCE
Bill Dance, professional bass fishing’s first superstar, has taught generations to fish. Dance began competing – and winning – in bass tournaments in the early 1960s. With over 2,000 shows under his belt since 1968, he has educated millions of fishing enthusiasts as host and producer of “Bill Dance Outdoors” and “Bill Dance Saltwater, airing respectively on the Outdoor Channel and Sportsman Channel. From his production studio in Collierville, Tenn., Dance oversees a fishing empire that includes his TV shows, tackle endorsements, how-to seminars, and a series of popular “blooper” videos. Dance has written seven books and his articles have been published in Sports Afield, Field & Stream, Bassmasters, Outdoor Life and more.
Dance’s accomplishments, techniques, and fishing savvy have been recognized through countless awards, including 23 national B.A.S.S. titles, three-time B.A.S.S. Angler of the Year, 40 top-ten finishes and eight-time Bassmaster Classic Qualifier. In 2021, Dance received his Honorary Doctorate from the University of Tennessee for his outstanding contributions to the sport. Country superstar Luke Bryan also celebrated the fishing legend in 2021 with the release of an ode titled “Bill Dance.” For over five decades, Bill Dance has served as an ambassador to the state of Tennessee, always filmed or photographed wearing his trademark orange and white University of Tennessee cap.
Signature Lakes
Bill Dance Signature Lakes currently include lakes in all three regions of the state, touching 13 state parks and 39 Tennessee counties.
Nine large reservoirs feature Bill Dance Signature Lake access points constructed to a standard of excellence endorsed and designed by Bill Dance Outdoors in collaboration with Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation and Tennessee Department of Tourist Development. These reservoirs include “Bill Dance Signature Lake access areas” with new or improved assets driving economic activity year-round for each surrounding community.
In addition, “small venue” lakes entice anglers of all ages and experience levels to enjoy the outdoors while experiencing an above-average catch rate.
What To Expect
Bill Dance Signature Lakes, a statewide program, encompasses lakes best suited for a diverse offering of experiences for anglers of all skill levels. The program will include infrastructure improvements both above and below the water, along with branding and marketing to drive visitation and economic impact. Development includes:
- Development of 9 large Tennessee Valley Authority, Army Corps of Engineers, and other state or locally managed Signature reservoir access points
- Management of fisheries to offer anglers of all ages an excellent fishing experience
- Creation of superior facilities that enhance the overall experience
- Engagement of private-sector partners for sponsorship contributions
Media Inquiries
TENNESSEE DEPARTMENT OF TOURIST DEVELOPMENT (TDTD)
Mary Katelyn Price, Communications Specialist
Marykatelyn.Price@tn.gov
TENNESSEE WILDLIFE RESOURCES AGENCY (TWRA)
Jenifer Wisniewski, Chief, Outreach and Communication
Jenifer.Wisniewski@tn.gov
TENNESSEE DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT AND CONSERVATION (TDEC)
Eric Ward, Communications Director
Eric.Ward@tn.gov
Sponsorship Inquiries
TENNESSEE DEPARTMENT OF TOURIST DEVELOPMENT (TDTD)
Dennis Tumlin, Chief Customer Officer
Dennis.tumlin@tn.gov
Participating Sponsors
