{"id":4758,"date":"2026-02-20T08:00:00","date_gmt":"2026-02-20T08:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/?p=4758"},"modified":"2026-04-02T16:31:51","modified_gmt":"2026-04-02T16:31:51","slug":"tennessee-hunting-seasons","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/tennessee-hunting-seasons\/","title":{"rendered":"Tennessee Hunting Season Guide: Rules and Fees"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>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 No fluff, no outdated info.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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here&#8217;s what we&#8217;re covering:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>License costs and season dates for every species (residents and non-residents)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>New regulations including that deer baiting change everyone&#8217;s talking about<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Where to hunt\u2014public land, private leases, and everything in between<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Let&#8217;s jump into the essentials: licenses, dates, and what you need to know before opening day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/ChatGPT-Image-Feb-12-2026-08_43_28-PM-1024x683.png\" alt=\"Tennessee hunting overview\" class=\"wp-image-4764\" srcset=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/ChatGPT-Image-Feb-12-2026-08_43_28-PM-1024x683.png 1024w, https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/ChatGPT-Image-Feb-12-2026-08_43_28-PM-300x200.png 300w, https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/ChatGPT-Image-Feb-12-2026-08_43_28-PM-768x512.png 768w, https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/ChatGPT-Image-Feb-12-2026-08_43_28-PM.png 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Quick Overview: Season Dates, Tennessee Hunting Licenses, and Regulations<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Tennessee keeps it straightforward with their licensing. You need a base license for small game, then add supplemental licenses for the big stuff\u2014deer, turkey, bear. Every big game animal you harvest gets reported through the Go Outdoors TN app before you call it a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tennessee Hunting License Types and Costs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The base license covers small game. Want to hunt deer, turkey, or bear? You&#8217;ll need supplemental licenses on top of that.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/ChatGPT-Image-Feb-12-2026-08_48_28-PM-1024x683.png\" alt=\"Tennessee hunting cost breakdown\" class=\"wp-image-4766\" srcset=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/ChatGPT-Image-Feb-12-2026-08_48_28-PM-1024x683.png 1024w, https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/ChatGPT-Image-Feb-12-2026-08_48_28-PM-300x200.png 300w, https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/ChatGPT-Image-Feb-12-2026-08_48_28-PM-768x512.png 768w, https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/ChatGPT-Image-Feb-12-2026-08_48_28-PM.png 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<table id=\"tablepress-177\" class=\"tablepress tablepress-id-177\">\n<thead>\n<tr class=\"row-1\">\n\t<th class=\"column-1\">License Type<\/th><th class=\"column-2\">Resident<\/th><th class=\"column-3\">Non-Resident<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody class=\"row-striping row-hover\">\n<tr class=\"row-2\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Annual Hunting\/Fishing Combo (Base)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">$34.00<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">N\/A<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-3\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Annual Big Game (Supplemental)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">$34.00<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">Included in &#8220;All Game&#8221;<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-4\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Annual All Game (Base + Big Game)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">$68.00<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">$305.00<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-5\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">7-Day All Game<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">N\/A<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">$214.00<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-6\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Sportsman License<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">$166.00<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">N\/A<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-7\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Junior (Ages 13\u201315)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">$10.00<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">$41.00<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-8\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Bear License (Supplemental)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">$24.00<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">$24.00<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-9\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Deer Baiting Privilege License (NEW 2026)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">$50.00 (estimated)<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">$100.00 (estimated)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<!-- #tablepress-177 from cache -->\n\n\n<p><strong>Coming from out of state?<\/strong>&nbsp;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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>The big news for 2026-2027:<\/strong>&nbsp;That Deer Baiting Privilege License lets you use corn, wheat, and grains on private land. Has to be scattered though\u2014no processed foods allowed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tennessee Hunting Season Dates 2026-2027<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Here&#8217;s every season date you need, organized by species and season type.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<table id=\"tablepress-178\" class=\"tablepress tablepress-id-178\">\n<thead>\n<tr class=\"row-1\">\n\t<th class=\"column-1\">Species<\/th><th class=\"column-2\">Season Type<\/th><th class=\"column-3\">Start Date<\/th><th class=\"column-4\">End Date<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody class=\"row-striping row-hover\">\n<tr class=\"row-2\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Deer<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Archery<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">Sept. 26, 2026<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Oct. 30, 2026<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-3\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Deer<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Young Sportsman<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">Oct. 31, 2026<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Nov. 1, 2026<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-4\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Deer<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Muzzleloader\/Archery<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">Nov. 7, 2026<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Nov. 20, 2026<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-5\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Deer<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Gun\/Muzzleloader\/Archery<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">Nov. 21, 2026<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Jan. 3, 2027<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-6\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Turkey (Fall)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Shotgun\/Archery<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">Oct. 10, 2026<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Oct. 23, 2026<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-7\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Turkey (Spring)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Young Sportsman<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">Apr. 3, 2027<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Apr. 4, 2027<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-8\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Turkey (Spring)<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Shotgun\/Archery<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">Apr. 10, 2027<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">May 23, 2027<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-9\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Elk<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Archery (Quota)<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">Sept. 26, 2026<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Oct. 2, 2026<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-10\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Elk<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Gun\/Muzzleloader\/Archery<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">Oct. 3, 2026<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Oct. 9, 2026<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-11\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Black Bear<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Archery (Selected Zones)<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">Sept. 26, 2026<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Oct. 23, 2026<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-12\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Squirrel<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Fall\/Winter<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">Aug. 22, 2026<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Feb. 28, 2027<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-13\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Squirrel<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Spring (2027)<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">May 8, 2027<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Jun. 13, 2027<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-14\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Rabbit<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">General<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">Nov. 7, 2026<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Feb. 28, 2027<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-15\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Quail<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">General<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">Nov. 7, 2026<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Feb. 28, 2027<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-16\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Grouse<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">General<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">Oct. 10, 2026<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Feb. 28, 2027<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-17\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Coyote\/Groundhog<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">General<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">Year-round<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">N\/A<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<!-- #tablepress-178 from cache -->\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/ChatGPT-Image-Feb-12-2026-08_45_22-PM-1024x683.png\" alt=\"Tennessee hunting season timeline\" class=\"wp-image-4765\" srcset=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/ChatGPT-Image-Feb-12-2026-08_45_22-PM-1024x683.png 1024w, https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/ChatGPT-Image-Feb-12-2026-08_45_22-PM-300x200.png 300w, https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/ChatGPT-Image-Feb-12-2026-08_45_22-PM-768x512.png 768w, https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/ChatGPT-Image-Feb-12-2026-08_45_22-PM.png 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Got your dates? Good. Now let&#8217;s break down what you can actually do during these seasons, starting with the species that gets most Tennessee hunters fired up: whitetails.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tennessee Deer Hunting<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>More hunters chase whitetails in Tennessee than anything else. Makes sense\u2014the state&#8217;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&#8217;s the biggest regulatory shift Tennessee&#8217;s seen in decades. Want the full breakdown on Tennessee deer hunting strategies and DMU specifics? Check out our&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/tennessee-deer-hunting-season\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">complete Tennessee deer hunting guide<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tennessee Deer Hunting Seasons<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Archery season kicks things off September 26th and runs through October 30th. Lower pressure, early patterns, and deer that haven&#8217;t been spooked yet. The Youth season gives kids two days at the end of October. Then muzzleloader season starts November 7th\u2014right 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&#8217;s harvest. Planning to gear up for Tennessee deer season? Browse&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.huntinglocator.com\/store\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">hunting gear at Hunting Locator<\/a>&nbsp;to get ready.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tennessee Deer Hunting Regulations<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Deer rules change based on which DMU you&#8217;re hunting, plus there are special rules in Chronic Wasting Disease zones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Buck limit<\/strong>: 2 per season anywhere in the state, max 1 per day<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Doe limits by DMU<\/strong>:&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.rocketcitynow.com\/article\/news\/local\/tennessee-gun-deer-season-2025-2026-bag-limits-rules\/525-d17cb3c2-9538-40a8-9b53-7a4c388a25c6\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">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&#8217;re archery-only<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Earn-A-Buck in CWD zones<\/strong>: West Tennessee counties with Chronic Wasting Disease let you earn extra buck tags by getting does tested<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Hunter orange<\/strong>: 500 square inches on your head and chest during any gun or muzzleloader season<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>E-Check<\/strong>: Report every deer through Go Outdoors TN before you go to bed<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Here&#8217;s the big change for 2026-2027\u2014deer baiting is now legal on private land<\/strong>:&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.local3news.com\/local-news\/tn-fish-wildlife-commission-approves-new-deer-baiting-regulations\/article&lt;em&gt;2d866a0d-9156-40e7-85b5-db79918e9826.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Tennessee approved the Deer Baiting Privilege License<\/a>. 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" src=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/pexels-jean-cathelain-2159290176-35921325-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"deer\" class=\"wp-image-4597\" srcset=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/pexels-jean-cathelain-2159290176-35921325-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/pexels-jean-cathelain-2159290176-35921325-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/pexels-jean-cathelain-2159290176-35921325-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/pexels-jean-cathelain-2159290176-35921325.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Deer baiting with wheat, corn, and grains is now legal on private land.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tennessee Turkey Hunting<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Spring gobbler season is what gets Tennessee hunters through the winter. But there&#8217;s a catch this year\u2014bag limits dropped from 3 birds to 2 for conservation reasons. Tennessee also runs a fall season, but it&#8217;s bearded birds only in select counties. For detailed turkey tactics and county-specific fall season info, check our&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/tennessee-turkey-hunting-season\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Tennessee turkey hunting guide<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tennessee Turkey Hunting Seasons<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>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\u2014peak gobbling time when toms are fired up and looking for hens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tennessee Turkey Hunting Regulations<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Turkey rules focus on what you can harvest and how you can hunt them. Pay attention to that bag limit change.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Spring bag limit (THIS CHANGED)<\/strong>: 2 bearded turkeys for the whole spring season, max 1 per day. Used to be 3, now it&#8217;s 2 for conservation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Fall bag limit<\/strong>: 1 bearded turkey in designated counties only<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Legal methods<\/strong>: Shotgun and archery during their seasons<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>E-Check required<\/strong>: Report every turkey through Go Outdoors TN before end of day<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Bearded birds only<\/strong>: You can&#8217;t shoot hens in Tennessee<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"727\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/pexels-ashish-sharma-266379-917595-727x1024.jpg\" alt=\"turkey\" class=\"wp-image-4740\" srcset=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/pexels-ashish-sharma-266379-917595-727x1024.jpg 727w, https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/pexels-ashish-sharma-266379-917595-213x300.jpg 213w, https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/pexels-ashish-sharma-266379-917595-768x1082.jpg 768w, https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/pexels-ashish-sharma-266379-917595-1090x1536.jpg 1090w, https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/pexels-ashish-sharma-266379-917595.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 727px) 100vw, 727px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Tennessee lowered the number of turkey bag limit for the season. It used to be 3, now it is 2.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tennessee Elk Hunting<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Elk hunting in Tennessee is like winning the lottery\u2014extremely 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&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/tennessee-elk-hunting-season\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Tennessee elk hunting guide<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tennessee Elk Hunting Seasons<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>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&#8217;s hunts. Miss that window? You&#8217;re done for the year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tennessee Elk Hunting Regulations<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Elk hunting runs under tight rules because Tennessee&#8217;s managing a small, restored population.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Quota permit required<\/strong>: No over-the-counter tags. You either win the draw or you don&#8217;t hunt elk<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Either sex<\/strong>: Winners can take bulls or cows during their season<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Specific zones<\/strong>: Elk hunting only happens in designated restoration areas<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>E-Check mandatory<\/strong>: Report elk harvest immediately through Go Outdoors TN<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tennessee Black Bear Hunting<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Bear hunting in Tennessee is archery-only and zone-specific. You&#8217;ll need that extra $24 Bear License on top of your regular big game license. Bears are tough to hunt\u2014they&#8217;re smart, the terrain is usually brutal, and success rates stay low. For bear hunting strategies and zone details, visit our&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/tennessee-black-bear-hunting-season\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Tennessee black bear guide<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tennessee Black Bear Hunting Seasons<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Archery season for bears runs September 26 through October 23 in selected zones. That&#8217;s nearly a month when bears are actively feeding before winter, making them more predictable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tennessee Black Bear Hunting Regulations<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Bear hunting operates under strict rules to keep populations stable while giving hunters opportunities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Bag limit<\/strong>: 1 bear per year, either sex<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Bear license required<\/strong>: $24 on top of your big game license<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Archery only<\/strong>: No guns during bear season<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Zone restrictions<\/strong>: Only hunt in designated bear zones<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>E-Check mandatory<\/strong>: Report bear harvest through Go Outdoors TN before end of day<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tennessee Minor Game Species Hunting<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tennessee Squirrel Hunting Information<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>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&#8217;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&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/tennessee-small-game-hunting-season\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Tennessee small game guide<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tennessee Rabbit Hunting Information<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Rabbit season runs November 7 through February 28, timing perfectly with cooler weather when rabbits move during daylight. Tennessee&#8217;s mix of brushy edges, fencerows, and farm country creates excellent rabbit habitat. Daily bag limit is 5, possession limit is 10.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"678\" src=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/pexels-jiri-mikolas-6546550-1024x678.jpg\" alt=\"Rabbit\" class=\"wp-image-4767\" srcset=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/pexels-jiri-mikolas-6546550-1024x678.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/pexels-jiri-mikolas-6546550-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/pexels-jiri-mikolas-6546550-768x509.jpg 768w, https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/pexels-jiri-mikolas-6546550.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Tennessee has an excellent rabbit habitat. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tennessee Quail Hunting Information<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tennessee Grouse Hunting Information<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Ruffed grouse season runs October 10 through February 28, mainly in East Tennessee&#8217;s mountains where the habitat still works. Grouse hunting means steep hiking and thick cover\u2014it&#8217;s probably Tennessee&#8217;s most physically demanding hunt. Daily bag limit is 3, possession limit is 6.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tennessee Coyote and Groundhog Hunting Information<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Where to Hunt in Tennessee<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Tennessee&#8217;s got everything from Appalachian peaks to Mississippi River bottoms. You can hunt public land if you don&#8217;t mind working for it, hire guides for expert help, or lease private ground for better odds and less pressure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best Public Lands<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Tennessee&#8217;s public hunting lands offer solid opportunities if you&#8217;re willing to put in the effort:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Cherokee National Forest<\/strong>: Over 650,000 acres of East Tennessee mountains. Deer, turkey, bear, small game\u2014it&#8217;s all there if you can handle the terrain<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Land Between the Lakes<\/strong>: 170,000 acres between Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley. Great deer and turkey hunting with diverse habitat<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Tennessee WMAs<\/strong>: More than 1 million acres of state-managed land scattered across all regions. Each has specific rules and opportunities<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>National Wildlife Refuges<\/strong>: Places like Cross Creeks and Hatchie offer waterfowl and other hunting during designated seasons<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Guided Hunts<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Professional guides make sense for hunters who don&#8217;t know the area, youth learning the ropes, or anyone wanting trophy opportunities on well-managed properties. Tennessee&#8217;s guide industry covers everything from half-day turkey hunts to multi-day deer packages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Private Land Hunting<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Private land gives you the best shot at consistent success with less hunting pressure. Leasing has gotten popular as&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.eregulations.com\/washington\/hunting\/hunting-access-on-private-lands\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">public land pressure keeps climbing<\/a>. You can contact landowners directly, use lease marketplaces, or join hunting clubs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.huntinfool.com\/articles\/topic\/hunt-strategy\/private-land-access-options\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Hunting lease markets work on supply and demand<\/a>\u2014prime properties cost more. Good lease deals require clear agreements, respectful landowner relationships, and understanding property rules.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Find Your Tennessee Hunting Lease<\/strong>: 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?&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/leases\/state\/tennessee\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Browse Tennessee hunting leases<\/a>&nbsp;to secure your private land access for 2026-2027.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/ChatGPT-Image-Feb-12-2026-08_53_05-PM-1024x683.png\" alt=\"Tennessee hunting locations\" class=\"wp-image-4768\" srcset=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/ChatGPT-Image-Feb-12-2026-08_53_05-PM-1024x683.png 1024w, https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/ChatGPT-Image-Feb-12-2026-08_53_05-PM-300x200.png 300w, https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/ChatGPT-Image-Feb-12-2026-08_53_05-PM-768x512.png 768w, https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/ChatGPT-Image-Feb-12-2026-08_53_05-PM.png 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FAQ<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">When do I need to apply for Tennessee elk hunting permits?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can I use bait for deer hunting in Tennessee starting in 2026-2027?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.local3news.com\/local-news\/tn-fish-wildlife-commission-approves-new-deer-baiting-regulations\/article&lt;em&gt;2d866a0d-9156-40e7-85b5-db79918e9826.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Tennessee approved deer baiting on private land starting with the 2026-2027 season<\/a>. 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What&#8217;s the difference between Tennessee&#8217;s Deer Management Units?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Tennessee has 6 Deer Management Units (DMUs) with different doe limits.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.rocketcitynow.com\/article\/news\/local\/tennessee-gun-deer-season-2025-2026-bag-limits-rules\/525-d17cb3c2-9538-40a8-9b53-7a4c388a25c6\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">DMUs 1, 2, and 3 allow up to 3 does per day, while DMUs 4, 5, and 6 allow 2 does for the season<\/a>&nbsp;(or 4 for archery-only hunters). All units have the same 2-buck limit per season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Do I need hunter education to hunt in Tennessee?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tn.gov\/twra\/news\/2025\/11\/17\/2025-26-gun-hunting-season-for-deer-opens-november-22.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Anyone born on or after January 1, 1969, must carry proof of hunter education completion<\/a>&nbsp;when hunting in Tennessee. You can also buy a one-year exemption that lets you hunt while completing the education requirement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How much does a non-resident hunting license cost in Tennessee?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What changed for turkey hunting in Tennessee for 2026-2027?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Spring turkey bag limit dropped from 3 to 2 bearded turkeys for conservation reasons. You still can&#8217;t take more than 1 per day, but your season total is now 2 birds instead of 3.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Final Shot<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Tennessee&#8217;s 2026-2027 season brings changes you can&#8217;t ignore\u2014deer 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Ready to lock down your Tennessee hunting access for 2026-2027?<\/strong>&nbsp;Don&#8217;t spend another season scrambling for places to hunt.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/leases\/state\/tennessee\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Check out quality hunting leases throughout Tennessee<\/a>&nbsp;and connect directly with landowners who want responsible hunters on their property. Your best Tennessee season starts with finding the right place to hunt\u2014and Hunting Locator makes that connection simple and reliable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Read here to find out all about this Tennessee hunting season. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":10,"featured_media":4769,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[75],"tags":[7,68,10,16,19],"class_list":["post-4758","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-state-guide","tag-deer-hunting","tag-hunting","tag-hunting-seasons","tag-season-dates","tag-turkey-hunting"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4758","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/10"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4758"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4758\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":5533,"href":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4758\/revisions\/5533"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/4769"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4758"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=4758"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/huntinglocator.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=4758"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}