One of the ladies at the river bank stated, "I can't believe there are so many kids here today and you don't hear any of them screaming, whining, or fussing about anything.  It's almost quiet." 

We think that's what happens to kids (and adults) when they are in the relaxing, beautiful natural setting of the Clinch River. 

The Clinch River Chapter's Kids Fish Free Day event is all about a peaceful, relaxing, fun, educational experience on the river.  We teach the kids not only fishing techniques, but how the river works and the importance of caring for and preserving our beautiful environment.  They get one-on-one attention.

Over 125 kids, parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles and friends gathered on the banks of the Clinch River at Miller Island. 

TU members Denny McMahan, Andrew Morgan,
and Scott Hahn give personal fishing guide
service to Clinton dentist Dr. Thomas Myers
and his daughters Natalie and Abby
 

READ ARTICLE BY RAY BLAKNEY
IN THE CLINTON COURIER NEWS

The day was held on the Tennessee statewide “Free Fishing Day” when no fishing license was required.  The Clinch River Chapter of Trout Unlimited in cooperation with the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) and Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) sponsored the event between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.  The activities took place at the TVA Miller Island Access on the Clinch River in Norris. TWRA stocked the river with fish and TVA kindly held off their generation for the hours of the event.

Big
Brown
caught by
Phillip Saah
of Knoxville

THANKS!!!

Chapter members Jeff Wade, Frances Oates, and Sarah Weeks taught the art of tying flies.

Thanks to TVA for the loan of boats and of waders and life vests to keep the kids safe.

Thanks to Officer Jack Paul of TVA for traffic control and security.

Thanks to Bill Shipman for providing drinks, Barry Thacker for bringing his grill, and Buzz Buffington for providing a few prizes.

Thanks to Shawn Madison, Bill Shipman, Beth & Jerry Van Fossen and Richard Barrett (Barrett Photos) for submitting photos.

Janiece Douglas and Mrs. Kim cooked up and served the hot dogs!

The LaFollette Press newspaper attended and let the kids know how important this day was for them. 

Congratulations to the grown-ups for taking the time to bring their kids to this event and giving them a great experience with nature.

BIG THANKS to all who brought their boats for the rides down the river! 

Thanks to all the volunteers and friends who helped out today. 

See a list of volunteers at end of page.