LYNCHBURG — Lynchburg native and America’s most-loved fisherman Bill Dance will be honored next Wednesday, October 1 when a Lynchburg bridge – one Dance used to fish under as a child – officially becomes the Bill Dance Bridge. The ceremony will take place at 2:30 p.m. at 133 Lynchburg Highway in Lynchburg. The public is invited to the free event and to a reception immediately following the naming ceremony.
Bill Dance, along with his family, friends and fans, will participate in the event. The dedication is supported by the Tennessee General Assembly and the Metro Moore County Council, following the passage of a proclamation submitted by the Lynchburg Moore County Chamber of Commerce, Experience Tennessee, and the Jack Daniel Distillery.
“Bill Dance’s legacy reaches far beyond fishing. He represents the heart of Tennessee –hard work, humility, and a passion for the outdoors,” said representatives from the Lynchburg Chamber of Commerce. “It is an honor to dedicate this bridge in the place where his journey first started and to celebrate his continued impact through the Signature Lakes program.”
Roots run deep in Lynchburg
Bill Dance’s roots run deep in Lynchburg, where he spent time as a child with his grandparents and first cast a line. From those early days in Middle Tennessee waters, Dance went on to become the most recognized face in bass fishing.
Known for his signature white-and-orange Tennessee Volunteers cap and his warm, down-to-earth style, Dance became a household name through more than 2,000 episodes of Bill Dance Outdoors, which first aired in 1968. While his TV presence introduced millions to the joy of fishing, his credibility was earned in competition. Dance was three-time B.A.S.S. Angler of the Year, winner of seven of his first 17 Bassmaster tournaments, first angler to ever land a bass in B.A.S.S. history, and qualified for Bassmaster Classic eight times in nine years.
Dance’s decision to shift from tournament competition to television changed the sport forever. Through his shows, he shared knowledge of bass behavior, seasonal fishing patterns, and tackle selection, all while making viewers feel as if they were spending the day with a favorite uncle on the water. Beyond his show, Bill Dance has been recognized with induction into the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame, the National Freshwater Hall of Fame, the IGFA Hall of Fame, and the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame.
Bill Dance’s legacy also lives on through the Bill Dance Signature Lakes, a collection of 18 lakes across Tennessee selected for significant upgrades to improve the fishing experience. These enhancements include new ramps, docks, fish attractors, and more, and are part of a statewide initiative led by Tennessee State Parks, the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development, and the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency. The program not only elevates fishing opportunities but also showcases Tennessee’s outstanding natural resources, encouraging tourism while carrying Bill Dance’s reputation for excellence to waters across the state.
Of special pride to the Lynchburg community, Tims Ford Lake, which borders Moore County, is included on this prestigious list. Its recognition as a Bill Dance Signature Lake further cements Lynchburg’s role in Tennessee’s fishing story and ensures a lasting legacy for generations of anglers.
The public is encouraged to attend this historic celebration.•
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