FOR ONE day each year, typically the Saturday of the first full week of June, people of all ages can fish without a license in Tennessee’s public waters, state parks, and agency-owned lakes.
This year, on June 6, the 24th Annual Lincoln County Free Fishing Day coincided with the Jr. Fishing Rodeo, bringing together a community of sponsors and more than 500 participants. Children 12 and under were eligible to participate and win prizes.
“The event is a staple of Fayetteville and also brings in families from nearby cities and counties,” said Nathan Browning, Fayetteville’s director of parks and recreation. “Thanks to the generous donations of businesses such as Walmart, Holt’s IGA, and Gerald’s Foodland, we were able to serve 700 hot dogs to the children and their families.”
Several other local businesses made monetary donations or provided prizes. The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) and the local Elks Lodge joined the Fayetteville Parks and Recreation Department in hosting the event.
While the event’s success was a culmination of numerous organizations, Browning credited one individual as an invaluable resource.
“Darion George has always worked on the fishing rodeo, mainly behind the scenes. During the event, he is the emcee and relies on his family as assistants throughout the day — taking pictures, interacting with kids, weighing fish, and delivering encouraging words to all,” Browning said. “Without Darion, I’m not sure if we could pull it off.”
The Jr. Rodeo began at 7 a.m. with registration, and by 8 a.m., children lined the water’s edge hoping to catch their first fish. The pond was stocked with more than 2,500 pounds of catfish before the event, ensuring few participants went home disappointed. Some fish were tagged for additional prizes
The event concluded at noon, with trophies and prizes awarded throughout the morning.
Professional sports bass fisherman and special guest Clay Dyer was available to meet participants and take photos with them. Applauded both for his expertise and tenacity, Dyer began fishing at age 5. By 13, he was already competing in tournaments.
Born without any lower limbs, no left arm, and a partial right arm, Dyer fishes without special equipment. He casts by tucking the rod under his jaw and whipping it with a quick left-to-right motion. He reels in fish by holding the rod under his chin.
According to his website, Dyer said his most difficult step in the fishing process is tying lures. Nevertheless, he gets the job done — tying knots with his tongue, unhooking fish with his teeth, and amazing everyone who knows his story. Dyer’s motto is, “If I can, you can.”
“The Lincoln County event is always an exciting fishing opportunity. It’s a community opportunity,” said Barry Cross, TWRA Region 2 communications and outreach coordinator. “We are thankful to those who attend and for the many community sponsors that support the efforts.”
According to Cross, fishing is for everyone. There are no age requirements, and while permits are required on other days, Tennessee does offer year-round opportunities.
“Fishing is a great family activity, whether it’s done by sitting on a bank or in a boat,” Cross added. “It is a great way to unwind, have fun, and reconnect with family and friends.” GN
More information about Tennessee fishing fees is available on the official TWRA License Sales portal at TN.gov.
