Council approves 'Bill Dance Bridge'
On Monday, the Metro Council unanimously approved a Proclamation by the State of Tennessee and Metro Moore County Government to name the bridge over the east fork of Mulberry Creek on the Lynchburg Highway in honor of renowned angler Bill Dance.
Dance is being honored for his fishing prowess, but he almost became a doctor. However, while enrolled in medical school, he was the first on the scene of a horrific motorcycle accident. “At that moment, I knew I didn’t want to be a doctor anymore,” Dance told legendary sports writer Larry Woody in 2008.
A Lynchburg native, Dance developed his love affair with fishing as a kid, wading Mulberry Creek with his grandfather. “I’ve always had a knack for fishing,” Dance added. “Always had good luck.”
Dance attributes his success to the support of his wife, Dianne, whom he met on a blind date when his original date canceled.
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“As I look back over my life and my career, I’m convinced that things happen for a reason, even if we don’t understand those reasons at the time,” he said. “What if I hadn’t come up on that motorcycle wreck that night? I’d probably be a doctor today. What if my original date hadn’t backed out that time? I wouldn’t have met Dianne. Funny how things work out, ain’t it? Call it fate or whatever, I’ve been very blessed.”
Metro Moore County Proclamation
WHEREAS, William George Dance, Jr., known to all as Bill Dance, was born on October 7, 1940, and raised in Lynchburg, Tennessee, where his lifelong passion for fishing began along the serene waters of Mulberry Creek; and
WHEREAS, Bill Dance’s childhood adventures wading in Mulberry Creek with his grandfather not only kindled his love for fishing but also laid the foundation for a remarkable career that would bring joy, education, and entertainment to millions of anglers across the nation; and
WHEREAS, Bill Dance made an indelible mark as a professional angler, winning numerous bass tournaments and later becoming a beloved television personality through his shows Bill Dance Outdoors and Bill Dance Saltwater, which have aired nationwide for decades, inspiring generations of fishermen and women; and
WHEREAS, Bill Dance is celebrated not only for his fishing prowess but also for his unique ability to connect with viewers through his down-to-earth personality, humor, and commitment to sharing his knowledge, making him an icon in outdoor sports and entertainment; and
WHEREAS, through his contributions to the fishing industry and his dedication to promoting the joys of the outdoors, Bill Dance has elevated Tennessee’s rich natural heritage and recreational opportunities to national prominence, bringing pride to his home state and community; and
WHEREAS, Bill Dance has always remained true to his roots in Lynchburg, Tennessee, wearing his iconic University of Tennessee cap and representing the Volunteer State with pride and humility, earning the love and respect of countless fans; and
WHEREAS, it is fitting and proper to honor a man whose life and career were profoundly shaped by the waters of Mulberry Creek by naming the bridge that spans this cherished landmark in his honor;
NOW, THEREFORE, we, the State of Tennessee and the Metro Moore County Government, do hereby proclaim and decree that the bridge over Mulberry Creek on Lynchburg Highway shall henceforth be named the Bill Dance Bridge, in recognition of his extraordinary contributions to the sport of fishing, the state of Tennessee, and the Lynchburg community;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this designation shall serve as a lasting tribute to Bill Dance’s legacy, inspiring future generations to embrace the wonders of the outdoors, the value of perseverance, and the joy of sharing one’s passions with the world.
