KNOXVILLE, Tenn.— The state won’t officially host Free Fishing Day this summer, but the Tennessee Wildlife Resource Agency’s fisheries division will stock the small pond near The Cove at Concord Park with catfish for an “increased fishing opportunity” the weekend of June 6, officials announced.
In addition, state wildlife leaders said folks of any age can fish for free without a license that weekend in Tennessee’s public waters, agency owned and operated lakes, and Tennessee State Parks.
The Cove is located at 11808 S. Northshore Drive.
Free Fishing Day is typically held across the state the first weekend in June and allows anyone to fish without a license. The TWRA usually supplies fishing gear, free hotdogs, snacks and prizes for the children who participate. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, that won’t happen this year.
“As with a lot of things, Free Fishing Day will look a little different than it has in years past,” said Mayor Jacobs. “But we are encouraging people to spend some family time fishing at The Cove. It should still be a fun time and hopefully everyone will have a nice catch that day.”
The event is free and open to the public. The Cove also features picnic tables and grills.
“This event has always been a huge success,” said Parks and Recreation Director Paul White. “It’s great to see people of all ages taking advantage of something new and fun.”
Folks who plan to fish are asked to: practice physical distancing; wear cloth face coverings when in public and physical distancing can’t be achieved; wash hands properly and often; clean surfaces regularly; and stay home when sick.
State officials said they plan to officially host Free Fishing Day again next summer.
