TBA Law Blog


Posted by: Julia Wilburn on Feb 24, 2023

Tennessee legislators have introduced bills that would restrict the use of trotlines in Tennessee waterways. Senate Bill 1308 is sponsored by Sen. Paul Bailey (R, Dist. 15) and the corresponding House Bill 1260 is sponsored by Rep. Paul Sherrell (R, District 43). Members of the American Canoe Association said such legislation was likely after the Tennessee Fish and Wildlife Commission (TFWC) failed to take action on their requests recently. NewsChannel 9 in Chattanooga explains that trotlines are long lines, placed under water containing multiple hooks, that fishermen use most often for catching catfish. Some water sport enthusiasts say trotlines that stretch across creeks and streams represent a safety hazard for canoers and kayakers.