America’s most-loved fisherman Bill Dance, Lynchburg’s native son, was honored when the local Mulberry Creek Bridge officially became the Bill Dance Bridge. State and local officials, including family and friends, attended the dedication ceremony to celebrate Dance.

The program featured remarks from Tennessee Speaker Pro Tempore Pat Marsh, House of Representatives, and Commissioner Mark Ezell, Tennessee Department of Tourist Development, who hailed Dance as a Tennessee legend. President Marsha Manley Hale, Lynchburg Moore County Chamber of Commerce, was the mistress of ceremonies. Executive Director Ryan French, South Central Tennessee Tourism Association, served as host at the Tennessee Whiskey Trailhead in Lynchburg. Officials from Jack Daniel Distillery were also on hand to bring congratulations to Dance. Gracious remarks from Bill Dance highlighted the event.

“I can’t begin to tell everyone how much I appreciate their involvement in getting this bridge named after me,” Bill Dance said. “I’m downright humbled and honored. This very creek is where my daddy and granddaddy taught me all about fishin’ and conservation. I just can’t thank the good folks in Lynchburg enough for this kind gesture. I hope the bridge will be a reminder to folks to get outside, wet a line, and maybe make a few memories of their own.”

Bill Dance’s roots run deep in Lynchburg, where he was born and spent time as a child with his grandparents. It was under this bridge where Dance first cast a line. From those early days in Middle Tennessee waters, Dance went on to become the most recognized face in bass fishing.

“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 Moore County 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.”

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 3-time B.A.S.S. Angler of the Year, winner of seven of his first 17 Bassmaster tournaments, first angle 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 dedication and naming of the Bill Dance Bridge 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.