Tennessee invests $25M in Bill Dance Signature Lakes to boost tourism and economy

The Tennessee House Finance, Ways, and Means Committee meeting on March 17, 2025, highlighted significant advancements in the state's tourism and fishing initiatives, particularly through the Bill Dance Signature Lakes project. This initiative, backed by a $25 million investment, aims to enhance fishing opportunities across 14 lakes in 39 counties, with a focus on attracting tourism and boosting local economies.

During the meeting, representatives discussed the successful collaboration with the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) and other partners, including Ford and Bass Pro Shops. The project has already shown promising results, with increased fishing tournaments and a notable rise in local tourism revenue. For instance, Hardin County has successfully shifted fishing tournaments from Alabama to Tennessee, resulting in increased lodging and restaurant patronage.

The committee emphasized the importance of branding these lakes with the recognizable figure of Bill Dance, a well-known advocate for fishing in Tennessee. The initiative not only aims to improve fishing amenities but also to engage children in outdoor activities, with designated areas for fishing events.

Looking ahead, officials expressed optimism about completing the project by the end of 2026, with ongoing benefits already being realized. The meeting underscored the potential economic impact of these efforts, as increased tourism spending translates into tax revenue for local communities.

In addition to the fishing initiatives, the committee also discussed the Rural Destination Development Program, which has successfully increased occupancy tax revenues in rural areas by 60%. This program focuses on empowering communities to market themselves as tourist destinations, further enhancing Tennessee's appeal as a travel hotspot.

Overall, the discussions at the meeting reflect a strong commitment to leveraging Tennessee's natural resources for economic growth and community development, with a clear vision for the future of tourism in the state.