TWRA seeks input on statewide black bass plan

Public comments are open through Sept. 4, with four open-house meetings remaining across Tennessee

5:40 p.m. Aug. 4, 2026

TWRA seeks input on statewide black bass plan

If you’re a Moore County bass master – whether you fish Tims Ford Lake, Mulberry Creek, or Hurricane Creek – the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency wants to hear from you.

TWRA is asking anglers to weigh in on how black bass are managed across the state.

TWRA is taking public comments through Sept. 4 on its proposed Tennessee Black Bass Management Plan, which lays out goals, objectives, and possible management strategies.

The agency developed the plan with a citizen advisory committee made up of volunteers with different bass-fishing interests.

The plan would guide TWRA staff and the Tennessee Fish and Wildlife Commission but would not replace the existing process for setting fishing regulations.

Public can comment online

The proposed plan is available in the fishing section of TWRA’s website, along with a short video explaining how it was developed and outlining seven key areas.

An anonymous online survey is also available, with comments accepted through Sept. 4.

Four public meetings remain

TWRA is also holding open-house meetings across the state where anglers can talk with agency staff and ask questions about the plan. There will be no formal presentation.

• Aug. 11: 6-7:30 p.m. – Henry County Fairgrounds, 517 Royal Oak Dr., Paris.
• Aug. 18: 6-7:30 p.m. – Birchwood Elementary School, 5623 Hwy. 60, Birchwood.
• Aug. 20: 6-7:30 p.m. – Bass Pro Shops, 3629 Outdoor Sportsman Place, Kodak.
• Aug. 25: 6-7:30 p.m. – TWRA Region 2 Office, 5105 Edmondson Pike, Nashville.
• Aug. 27: 6-7:30 p.m. – Johnson City Public Library, 100 W. Millard St., Johnson City.

All times are local.

For more information, contact Vic DiCenzo at vic.dicenzo@tn.gov.