Photo by Bill Banaszewski.

People travel many miles each summer to get to amusement parks, resorts and the sun. But for many, a vacation means getting outdoors, and getting outdoors in the summer means fishing. From mountain trout streams to flowing smallmouth rivers and family-friendly lakes scattered in much of the state, opportunities exist for outgoing families, including those with kids of all ages.

The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) and others have put an emphasis on family fishing waters, and there's at least one near you. Let's take a look at some of these across the state.

TENNESSEE'S CROWN JEWEL OF FAMILY FISHING
It's no secret that most of the state's fishing can be found in Middle and especially East Tennessee when it comes to lake and stream options. West Tennessee anglers need not worry because the TWRA has put a major emphasis on creating family fishing opportunities in the western reaches as well as the middle portion of the state.

The agency said its Family Fishing Lakes were built for solitude and relaxation and the chance to catch bass, sunfish, crappie and catfish, as well as spend quality family time together.

There are 18 lakes managed by the TWRA that are open year 'round for fishing and outdoor recreation. Designed and regulated especially for family fishing, these lakes prohibit alcoholic beverages, houseboats, inboard motors, water skiing, personal watercraft and swimming. Most lakes have wheelchair-accessible fishing piers, easy access to bank-fishing, boat rentals, launching ramps and picnic areas. Some lakes offer conveniences such as bait, tackle, snacks and drinks.

These lakes are managed to provide fishing opportunities while producing the best quality fishing possible at a minimal cost. Ten of the lakes are located in West Tennessee and range from 87 acres to 560 acres in size. The newest and largest lake, Gibson County Lake, was impounded in September 1999 and opened to the public April 1, 2003. This lake also has a recreational zone that allows water skiing, personal watercraft, and swimming. The remaining eight lakes are located in Middle Tennessee and range from 12 acres to 325 acres in size.

One of the four lakes at Williamsport (known locally as Whippoorwill) is for youth-adult fishing only, and an embayment of Laurel Hill Lake is designated for youth-only fishing. In addition to these, there are a couple of ponds totaling approximately 15 acres designated as youth fishing ponds. These ponds are located on the Bridgestone/Firestone Centennial Wilderness WMA in White County.

If your family wants to get away from it all, then consider one of these 18 Family Fishing Lakes. There are also state parks scattered around the region and many of them are close to these lakes. Whether you're into camping or like the comforts of a park resort or hotel, lodging isn't an issue and you won't be far from some really good fishing.

Information & Regulations
• A $5 daily or $40 annual permit is required to fish most of these lakes. These permits may be purchased at most of the individual lake offices.
• Boats may be rented for $8 per day at most lakes. This permit may be purchased at the individual lake office.
• Fishing is permitted seven days per week from one-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset (except at Garrett Lake, which is open 24 hours a day).
• Commercial gear, trotlines and limblines are prohibited.

License Information
• Anglers under the age of 13, holders of a Lifetime Sportsman license, and those with an Annual Sportsman license do not need a lake permit.
• Anglers born before March 1, 1926, do not need a license or lake permit.
• Anglers who are age 65 and older need only a Permanent Senior Citizen license (type 166) and do not need a lake permit.
• Anglers age 16 through 64 must have a Tennessee fishing license and an annual or daily lake permit.
• Anglers ages 13-15 need only a Jr. Hunt/Fish/Trap license.
• Other rules for fishing that apply to many of the TWRA's family lakes include the following: Boats may not exceed the no-wake speed, motors (except trolling motors) are prohibited on some lakes, and personal boats may not be left overnight. Motorized vehicles are permitted only on designated roads.