By. Alexis Hill, Intern
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency is asking anglers and outdoor enthusiasts to help shape the future of bass fishing in the state by providing feedback on its proposed Tennessee Black Bass Management Plan.
The statewide plan is designed to guide how the agency manages black bass fisheries while addressing the challenges of providing quality fishing opportunities across Tennessee. Developed by TWRA and a stakeholder advisory committee made up of citizen volunteers representing a variety of bass fishing interests, the plan outlines management goals, objectives and strategies based on public values and scientific management.
TWRA officials say the plan provides long-term guidance for commissioners and agency staff but does not replace the existing process used to establish fishing regulations.
The draft plan is now available on the TWRA website, where the public can also watch a short video explaining the planning process and complete an anonymous survey. The public comment period will remain open through September 4, 2026.
In addition to the online survey, TWRA will host five open-house public meetings across the state. Each meeting will be held from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. local time and will allow attendees to speak directly with agency staff and learn more about the proposed plan. There will be no formal presentation, so participants may attend at any time during the event.
The meeting schedule is:
- August 11 – Henry County Fairgrounds, 517 Royal Oak Drive, Paris, TN 38242 (6-7:30 p.m.)
- August 18 – Birchwood Elementary School, 5623 Highway 60, Birchwood, TN 37308 (6-7:30 p.m.)
- August 20 – Bass Pro Shops, 3629 Outdoor Sportsman Place, Kodak, TN 37764 (6-7:30 p.m.)
- August 25 – TWRA Region 2 Office, 5105 Edmondson Pike, Nashville, TN 37211 (6-7:30 p.m.)
- August 27 – Johnson City Public Library, 100 West Millard Street, Johnson City, TN 37604 (6-7:30 p.m.)
TWRA encourages anyone with an interest in Tennessee’s bass fisheries to review the proposed management plan and submit comments before the September 4 deadline.
The agency is responsible for protecting, managing and conserving Tennessee’s fish and wildlife resources while also promoting boating safety and enforcing wildlife laws across the state.
