1951 TVA Fishing Guide with Fold-Out Map of Tennessee Lakes and Dock Listings
A striking and increasingly scarce piece of early Tennessee Valley Authority recreational ephemera, this 1951 Fishing Guide to the Great Lakes of Tennessee captures a pivotal moment in mid-century American outdoor culture—when newly created reservoirs transformed the region into a premier fishing destination.
Issued by the Tennessee Department of Conservation in cooperation with the TVA and U.S. Army Engineers, this 14-panel fold-out guide extends 38 inches in length, combining detailed cartography, lake data, and travel-style promotion into one highly visual piece.
The bold cover—featuring a smiling angler holding a largemouth bass against a vivid blue background—advertises the era’s optimistic promise: “No Mosquitos – No Closed Season.” Inside, the guide unfolds into a comprehensive system of maps and indexed lake data designed for both planning and exploration.
Historical Note
This guide was produced during the early years of the Tennessee Valley Authority’s reservoir system, often referred to as the “Great Lakes of the South.” By 1951, lakes such as Norris, Cherokee, Pickwick, and Kentucky Lake had transformed the region—both environmentally and economically.
The promotion of “No Closed Season” reflected experimental wildlife management practices aimed at encouraging recreational use, while the phrase “No Mosquitos” highlighted the perceived advantages of large, managed reservoirs over earlier swamp conditions. Publications like this were distributed to attract tourism and position Tennessee as a leading destination for sport fishing in postwar America
Five panels present a detailed map of Tennessee’s reservoir system, with an alphanumeric coding system identifying major lakes such as Cherokee, Douglas, Pickwick, and others. Each lake corresponds to a structured grid listing dock locations, operators, and amenities—including boats, bait, tackle, meals, lodging, and outboard motors.
Additional panels outline fishing regulations, licensing fees, and descriptions of each lake’s size, location, and principal game fish—offering a complete snapshot of how these waters were introduced and promoted to the public in the early 1950s.
Framing Appeal
The bold blue cover with its mid-century typography and classic angler imagery makes a standout display piece. Equally compelling, the fully extended map—spanning over three feet—offers strong graphic impact when framed.
Ideal for lake houses, cabins, fishing lodges, or rustic interiors, it pairs beautifully with vintage sporting décor and Americana collections.
Very good condition for vintage ephemera. Light edge chipping and expected age toning with some foxing. The first fold shows minor splitting, though the structure remains fully intact and sound. Colors remain bright and the fold-out is complete.
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