This Tennessee hunting guide pulls everything straight from the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) and official state sources. No fluff, no outdated info. Just what you need to plan your hunts, budget your licenses, and understand the new rules before you head to the woods.
Here’s what we’re covering:
- License costs and season dates for every species (residents and non-residents)
- New regulations including that deer baiting change everyone’s talking about
- Where to hunt—public land, private leases, and everything in between
Let’s jump into the essentials: licenses, dates, and what you need to know before opening day.
Quick Overview: Season Dates, Tennessee Hunting Licenses, and Regulations
Tennessee keeps it straightforward with their licensing. You need a base license for small game, then add supplemental licenses for the big stuff—deer, turkey, bear. Every big game animal you harvest gets reported through the Go Outdoors TN app before you call it a day.
Tennessee Hunting License Types and Costs
The base license covers small game. Want to hunt deer, turkey, or bear? You’ll need supplemental licenses on top of that.
| License Type | Resident | Non-Resident |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Hunting/Fishing Combo (Base) | $34.00 | N/A |
| Annual Big Game (Supplemental) | $34.00 | Included in “All Game” |
| Annual All Game (Base + Big Game) | $68.00 | $305.00 |
| 7-Day All Game | N/A | $214.00 |
| Sportsman License | $166.00 | N/A |
| Junior (Ages 13–15) | $10.00 | $41.00 |
| Bear License (Supplemental) | $24.00 | $24.00 |
| Deer Baiting Privilege License (NEW 2026) | $50.00 (estimated) | $100.00 (estimated) |
Coming from out of state? That 7-Day All Game license at $214 is your sweet spot for a week-long hunt. Planning multiple trips? The annual at $305 pays for itself.
The big news for 2026-2027: That Deer Baiting Privilege License lets you use corn, wheat, and grains on private land. Has to be scattered though—no processed foods allowed.
Tennessee Hunting Season Dates 2026-2027
Here’s every season date you need, organized by species and season type.
| Species | Season Type | Start Date | End Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deer | Archery | Sept. 26, 2026 | Oct. 30, 2026 |
| Deer | Young Sportsman | Oct. 31, 2026 | Nov. 1, 2026 |
| Deer | Muzzleloader/Archery | Nov. 7, 2026 | Nov. 20, 2026 |
| Deer | Gun/Muzzleloader/Archery | Nov. 21, 2026 | Jan. 3, 2027 |
| Turkey (Fall) | Shotgun/Archery | Oct. 10, 2026 | Oct. 23, 2026 |
| Turkey (Spring) | Young Sportsman | Apr. 3, 2027 | Apr. 4, 2027 |
| Turkey (Spring) | Shotgun/Archery | Apr. 10, 2027 | May 23, 2027 |
| Elk | Archery (Quota) | Sept. 26, 2026 | Oct. 2, 2026 |
| Elk | Gun/Muzzleloader/Archery | Oct. 3, 2026 | Oct. 9, 2026 |
| Black Bear | Archery (Selected Zones) | Sept. 26, 2026 | Oct. 23, 2026 |
| Squirrel | Fall/Winter | Aug. 22, 2026 | Feb. 28, 2027 |
| Squirrel | Spring (2027) | May 8, 2027 | Jun. 13, 2027 |
| Rabbit | General | Nov. 7, 2026 | Feb. 28, 2027 |
| Quail | General | Nov. 7, 2026 | Feb. 28, 2027 |
| Grouse | General | Oct. 10, 2026 | Feb. 28, 2027 |
| Coyote/Groundhog | General | Year-round | N/A |
Got your dates? Good. Now let’s break down what you can actually do during these seasons, starting with the species that gets most Tennessee hunters fired up: whitetails.
Tennessee Deer Hunting
More hunters chase whitetails in Tennessee than anything else. Makes sense—the state’s got solid deer numbers and a long season that runs from late September through early January. Tennessee splits the state into 6 Deer Management Units (DMUs) with different bag limits depending on where you hunt. And yes, that deer baiting change we mentioned? It’s the biggest regulatory shift Tennessee’s seen in decades. Want the full breakdown on Tennessee deer hunting strategies and DMU specifics? Check out our complete Tennessee deer hunting guide.
Tennessee Deer Hunting Seasons
Archery season kicks things off September 26th and runs through October 30th. Lower pressure, early patterns, and deer that haven’t been spooked yet. The Youth season gives kids two days at the end of October. Then muzzleloader season starts November 7th—right when bucks start getting stupid with pre-rut behavior. Gun season opens November 21st and runs through January 3rd, covering the rut and most of the season’s harvest. Planning to gear up for Tennessee deer season? Browse hunting gear at Hunting Locator to get ready.
Tennessee Deer Hunting Regulations
Deer rules change based on which DMU you’re hunting, plus there are special rules in Chronic Wasting Disease zones.
- Buck limit: 2 per season anywhere in the state, max 1 per day
- Doe limits by DMU: Units 1, 2, 3 let you take up to 3 does per day. Units 4, 5, 6 give you 2 for the season or 4 if you’re archery-only
- Earn-A-Buck in CWD zones: West Tennessee counties with Chronic Wasting Disease let you earn extra buck tags by getting does tested
- Hunter orange: 500 square inches on your head and chest during any gun or muzzleloader season
- E-Check: Report every deer through Go Outdoors TN before you go to bed
Here’s the big change for 2026-2027—deer baiting is now legal on private land: Tennessee approved the Deer Baiting Privilege License. You can use corn, wheat, and grains as bait on private property. Rules: scatter it (no feeders for hunting), no processed foods, estimated $50 for residents/$100 for non-residents. This does NOT work on public land or WMAs.
Tennessee Turkey Hunting
Spring gobbler season is what gets Tennessee hunters through the winter. But there’s a catch this year—bag limits dropped from 3 birds to 2 for conservation reasons. Tennessee also runs a fall season, but it’s bearded birds only in select counties. For detailed turkey tactics and county-specific fall season info, check our Tennessee turkey hunting guide.
Tennessee Turkey Hunting Seasons
Fall season runs October 10-23, but only in certain counties and only bearded birds count. Youth get their shot April 3-4 for spring season. The main event starts April 10th and runs through May 23rd—peak gobbling time when toms are fired up and looking for hens.
Tennessee Turkey Hunting Regulations
Turkey rules focus on what you can harvest and how you can hunt them. Pay attention to that bag limit change.
- Spring bag limit (THIS CHANGED): 2 bearded turkeys for the whole spring season, max 1 per day. Used to be 3, now it’s 2 for conservation
- Fall bag limit: 1 bearded turkey in designated counties only
- Legal methods: Shotgun and archery during their seasons
- E-Check required: Report every turkey through Go Outdoors TN before end of day
- Bearded birds only: You can’t shoot hens in Tennessee
Tennessee Elk Hunting
Elk hunting in Tennessee is like winning the lottery—extremely limited tags through a quota system. Applications usually open in February for fall hunts, so you need to plan way ahead. For the complete rundown on applications and hunt units, see our Tennessee elk hunting guide.
Tennessee Elk Hunting Seasons
Two elk seasons, both quota-only. Archery runs September 26 through October 2nd. Gun/muzzleloader/archery follows October 3-9. Applications typically run February 4-25 for that year’s hunts. Miss that window? You’re done for the year.
Tennessee Elk Hunting Regulations
Elk hunting runs under tight rules because Tennessee’s managing a small, restored population.
- Quota permit required: No over-the-counter tags. You either win the draw or you don’t hunt elk
- Either sex: Winners can take bulls or cows during their season
- Specific zones: Elk hunting only happens in designated restoration areas
- E-Check mandatory: Report elk harvest immediately through Go Outdoors TN
Tennessee Black Bear Hunting
Bear hunting in Tennessee is archery-only and zone-specific. You’ll need that extra $24 Bear License on top of your regular big game license. Bears are tough to hunt—they’re smart, the terrain is usually brutal, and success rates stay low. For bear hunting strategies and zone details, visit our Tennessee black bear guide.
Tennessee Black Bear Hunting Seasons
Archery season for bears runs September 26 through October 23 in selected zones. That’s nearly a month when bears are actively feeding before winter, making them more predictable.
Tennessee Black Bear Hunting Regulations
Bear hunting operates under strict rules to keep populations stable while giving hunters opportunities.
- Bag limit: 1 bear per year, either sex
- Bear license required: $24 on top of your big game license
- Archery only: No guns during bear season
- Zone restrictions: Only hunt in designated bear zones
- E-Check mandatory: Report bear harvest through Go Outdoors TN before end of day
Tennessee Minor Game Species Hunting
Small game hunting in Tennessee offers long seasons, low pressure, and great opportunities for new hunters or anyone wanting to extend their time in the woods. These species only require your base hunting license, making them affordable options for everyone.
Tennessee Squirrel Hunting Information
Squirrel season gives you the longest hunting opportunity in Tennessee. Fall/winter season runs August 22 through February 28, then spring season goes May 8 through June 13. Tennessee’s hardwood forests are loaded with squirrels. Daily bag limit is 10, possession limit is 20. For detailed squirrel hunting techniques and spots, see our Tennessee small game guide.
Tennessee Rabbit Hunting Information
Rabbit season runs November 7 through February 28, timing perfectly with cooler weather when rabbits move during daylight. Tennessee’s mix of brushy edges, fencerows, and farm country creates excellent rabbit habitat. Daily bag limit is 5, possession limit is 10.
Tennessee Quail Hunting Information
Quail season runs November 7 through February 28, but wild quail numbers have crashed in Tennessee. Most quail hunting now happens on managed properties or preserves that stock birds. Daily bag limit is 6, possession limit is 12.
Tennessee Grouse Hunting Information
Ruffed grouse season runs October 10 through February 28, mainly in East Tennessee’s mountains where the habitat still works. Grouse hunting means steep hiking and thick cover—it’s probably Tennessee’s most physically demanding hunt. Daily bag limit is 3, possession limit is 6.
Tennessee Coyote and Groundhog Hunting Information
Coyotes and groundhogs are fair game year-round with no bag limits. Perfect for staying sharp during closed seasons while helping landowners with pest problems.
Where to Hunt in Tennessee
Tennessee’s got everything from Appalachian peaks to Mississippi River bottoms. You can hunt public land if you don’t mind working for it, hire guides for expert help, or lease private ground for better odds and less pressure.
Best Public Lands
Tennessee’s public hunting lands offer solid opportunities if you’re willing to put in the effort:
- Cherokee National Forest: Over 650,000 acres of East Tennessee mountains. Deer, turkey, bear, small game—it’s all there if you can handle the terrain
- Land Between the Lakes: 170,000 acres between Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley. Great deer and turkey hunting with diverse habitat
- Tennessee WMAs: More than 1 million acres of state-managed land scattered across all regions. Each has specific rules and opportunities
- National Wildlife Refuges: Places like Cross Creeks and Hatchie offer waterfowl and other hunting during designated seasons
Guided Hunts
Professional guides make sense for hunters who don’t know the area, youth learning the ropes, or anyone wanting trophy opportunities on well-managed properties. Tennessee’s guide industry covers everything from half-day turkey hunts to multi-day deer packages.
Private Land Hunting
Private land gives you the best shot at consistent success with less hunting pressure. Leasing has gotten popular as public land pressure keeps climbing. You can contact landowners directly, use lease marketplaces, or join hunting clubs.
Hunting lease markets work on supply and demand—prime properties cost more. Good lease deals require clear agreements, respectful landowner relationships, and understanding property rules.
Find Your Tennessee Hunting Lease: Hunting Locator connects hunters with quality private land throughout Tennessee. Our platform features vetted properties from small parcels to large ranches, with direct landowner contact and transparent pricing. Looking for a deer lease in Middle Tennessee or turkey access in the Cumberland Plateau? Browse Tennessee hunting leases to secure your private land access for 2026-2027.
FAQ
When do I need to apply for Tennessee elk hunting permits?
Applications for Tennessee elk quota hunts typically run February 4-25, 2026 for the 2026 hunting season. You apply through Go Outdoors TN, and winners get picked through random drawing. Elk hunting is quota-only with very few tags available.
Can I use bait for deer hunting in Tennessee starting in 2026-2027?
Yes, Tennessee approved deer baiting on private land starting with the 2026-2027 season. You need a Deer Baiting Privilege License (estimated $50 residents/$100 non-residents) and must follow specific rules: scatter the bait, only corn/wheat/grains allowed, and no baiting on public lands or WMAs.
What’s the difference between Tennessee’s Deer Management Units?
Tennessee has 6 Deer Management Units (DMUs) with different doe limits. DMUs 1, 2, and 3 allow up to 3 does per day, while DMUs 4, 5, and 6 allow 2 does for the season (or 4 for archery-only hunters). All units have the same 2-buck limit per season.
Do I need hunter education to hunt in Tennessee?
Anyone born on or after January 1, 1969, must carry proof of hunter education completion when hunting in Tennessee. You can also buy a one-year exemption that lets you hunt while completing the education requirement.
How much does a non-resident hunting license cost in Tennessee?
Non-residents pay $305 for an Annual All Game license or $214 for a 7-Day All Game license. The 7-day works great for destination hunts, while the annual makes more sense for extended trips or multiple visits.
What changed for turkey hunting in Tennessee for 2026-2027?
Spring turkey bag limit dropped from 3 to 2 bearded turkeys for conservation reasons. You still can’t take more than 1 per day, but your season total is now 2 birds instead of 3.
The Final Shot
Tennessee’s 2026-2027 season brings changes you can’t ignore—deer baiting legalization, turkey limit reductions, and new license requirements. Whether this is your first Tennessee hunt or your fiftieth, success starts with understanding the rules, getting proper licenses, and securing good places to hunt.
Tennessee offers incredible hunting diversity with long seasons and varied terrain. But as public land gets more crowded and lease prices climb, finding reliable access gets tougher every year.
Ready to lock down your Tennessee hunting access for 2026-2027? Don’t spend another season scrambling for places to hunt. Check out quality hunting leases throughout Tennessee and connect directly with landowners who want responsible hunters on their property. Your best Tennessee season starts with finding the right place to hunt—and Hunting Locator makes that connection simple and reliable.
