NEWPORT, Tenn. — In response to potential impacts from recent flooding caused by Hurricane Helene and in partnership with Tennessee State Representative Jeremy Faison, the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) stocked approximately 10,000 walleye at two locations along the Pigeon River on May 20, 2025, to support fish populations and bolster natural reproduction.
“The Pigeon River is healthier and more vibrant today than anyone alive can remember,” said Rep. Faison. “I’m deeply grateful for the continued dedication of the TWRA in supporting the decisions that keep the Pigeon sustainable and thriving. The sight of 10,000 walleye growing and repopulating our river is truly exciting—and a powerful sign of progress.”
TWRA Chief of Fisheries Jason Henegar also commented on the effort. “We understand concerns that recent flooding from Hurricane Helene may have impacted river ecosystems and fish habitats,” said Henegar. “Our most recent survey of the Pigeon River indicates minimal changes in fish populations. However, consistent with the agency’s ongoing fisheries management efforts, we are conducting walleye stocking to support and enhance natural reproduction.”
Henegar added that TWRA will continue monitoring affected river systems to better assess the long-term ecological impacts of the storm.
Each year, TWRA stocks over 10 million warm and cold-water fish into Tennessee’s lakes, rivers, and streams to enhance natural reproduction, sustain healthy fish populations, and provide quality angling opportunities for the public.
Photo: Pictured (left to right): TWRA General Counsel Torrey Grimes; Newport Parks and Recreation Director Tim Dockery; Tennessee State Representative Jeremy Faison; TWRA Chief of Fisheries Jason Henegar; TWRA Reservoir Fisheries Biologist John Hammonds; TWRA Regional Fisheries Program Manager Jim Habera; Newport Community Development Director Gary Carver; and Newport Administrative Assistant Molly Ealy. Front: Braylin Stephenson.