Blake Parsons advocates for proper oversight of Tennessee's fishing and boating access

The Tennessee House Agriculture & Natural Resources Committee convened on April 1, 2025, to discuss critical issues affecting the state's waterways and fishing community. A significant focus of the meeting was the proposed legislation concerning the oversight of boat ramps and access points, which has sparked considerable debate among stakeholders.

Blake Parsons, a local business owner and fly fishing guide, voiced strong opposition to the bill, emphasizing the need for effective oversight of Tennessee's lakes and rivers. Parsons highlighted that his business, which relies on anglers' access to fishing waters, has already been negatively impacted by overcrowding from commercial paddle craft operators. He argued that the proposed legislation would prioritize commercial operators over recreational anglers, undermining the funding structure that supports the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA). According to Parsons, anglers contribute significantly to TWRA's budget through license fees, and any reduction in oversight could lead to negative experiences for users of public boat ramps, ultimately harming local businesses like his.

The discussion also touched on the constitutional right to free access to rivers, as noted by Representative Fritz, who raised concerns about the implications of the bill on public access. In response, Representative Butler clarified that the TWRA remains neutral on the legislation, indicating that there are no current plans to restrict access to boat ramps. He emphasized the importance of collaboration among various waterway users, including paddle sports operators and anglers, to ensure equitable access for all.

The committee ultimately voted on the bill, which passed with eight votes in favor and six against, moving it to the finance committee for further consideration. This decision reflects ongoing tensions between different user groups of Tennessee's waterways and raises questions about the future management of public access points.

As the discussions continue, the implications of this legislation will be closely monitored by both business owners and recreational users, as they seek to balance access, safety, and the sustainability of Tennessee's natural resources. The outcome of this legislative process could significantly impact the state's fishing community and the broader ecosystem that supports it.