Mike Smith retires after 46 years of service at Eagle Bend Hatchery
Region 4 Hunter Education coordinator Tommy White- head (left) presents Eagle Bend Hatchery Manager Mike “Stump” Smith with his law enforcement service weapon upon his retirement from TWRA with 46 years of dedicated service.
Smith began his career as a CETA (Comprehensive Employment Training Act) employee working as a wildlife manager in reservoirs and later serving as a wildlife officer in Hancock and Claiborne counties. He spent most of his career as Eagle Bend Hatchery manager.
His dedication to the agency’s mission and service to the public have been unwavering.
Smith has been a mentor to many professionals in the fisheries field and an educator to students of all ages. He was at the forefront of striped bass culture in Tennessee and has ensured that this significant fishery has continued.
He has worked with other states to help foster and establish long-term relationships for fish exchange.
Many of the fish-culture techniques used in the agency’s hatchery system today have benefited from his input and expertise.
His commitment to advancing fisheries management has been long-standing by providing technical expertise to professional committees and workshops. If anyone has ever spent just a short amount of time with Smith, it is easy to recognize his commitment and passion for his work, the agency said.
Region 4 Fisheries Program Coordinator Bart Carter said, “Whether sampling musky on the Plateau, working law enforcement details, or tank spawning striped bass, Stump has had one of those careers that will always be something people will remember and appreciate for years to come. We are very happy for Stump to enter this next chapter, but he will be sorely missed.”