What animals can you hunt in Tennessee?

Tennessee offers a rich and diverse landscape for hunters of all experience levels. Hunting in TN Whether you're after big game in the rolling Appalachian foothills, chasing wild turkey through dense hardwood forests, or setting out for small game with your trusty .22, the Volunteer State has something for every outdoor enthusiast. In this guide, we’ll give you a full breakdown of what animals you can legally hunt in Tennessee, along with important tips on seasons, gear, and regulations to help you plan your next outdoor adventure.

Big Game Hunting in Tennessee

Big game hunting is one of the most popular outdoor pursuits in Tennessee. The state is home to ample populations of white-tailed deer, black bears, and elk in designated areas.

White-tailed Deer: Deer hunting is hands-down the most popular big game pursuit in Tennessee. Multiple seasons are available, including archery, muzzleloader, and modern gun. Deer seasons typically start in late September and run through early January. Tennessee is divided into deer units, each with its own bag limits and regulations.
Black Bear: Found primarily in East Tennessee, particularly around the Great Smoky Mountains and Cherokee National Forest, black bears have strict season dates and zone-specific regulations. It's essential to know your Bear Hunt Zone before heading out.
Elk: Elk were reintroduced to Tennessee and are now available for limited quota hunts in designated Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs). These hunts require applying for a permit through a lottery system, typically during the summer months.

Turkey Hunting

Spring turkey hunting is another treasured tradition in Tennessee. Hunters look forward to matching wit and call with the state's population of Eastern wild turkeys. The spring season usually starts in early April and runs through mid-May, with a youth season occurring late March.

Gear Tip: A good turkey call, camo that blends into the forest floor, and patience are key to success during gobbler season.
Fall Season: There is also a fall season for turkeys, though it is generally less popular and has more limited bag limits and zones.

Small Game in Tennessee

If you're looking for a more relaxed hunting experience or are introducing someone new to the outdoors, Tennessee offers varied small game opportunities.

Squirrel: One of the best species for new hunters, squirrel season runs from late August to the end of February. Both gray and fox squirrels are abundant in public and private woodlands.
Rabbit: The season typically runs from early November through the end of February. Beagles are popular companions for tracking these elusive critters.
Quail & Grouse: Numbers for Northern bobwhite quail and ruffed grouse have declined in recent years. Hunting is restricted in select WMAs—check the latest regulations before planning a trip.

Waterfowl and Migratory Birds

Tennessee is part of the Mississippi Flyway, making it a prime spot for duck and goose hunting. Waterfowl seasons are generally split into multiple segments from November through January, and species-specific regulations apply.

Ducks & Geese: Mallards, wood ducks, Canada geese, and snow geese are among the common waterfowl species hunted here.
Doves: Dove season kicks off in early September and is a favorite opener for many Tennessee hunters. Be sure to scout agricultural fields ahead of time for sunflower or millet plantings that attract doves.
Regulations: A federal Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp (Duck Stamp) is required for waterfowl hunting, along with the HIP (Harvest Information Program) permit.

Furbearer and Predator Hunting

Predators and furbearers such as coyotes and bobcats offer year-round hunting opportunities with fewer restrictions. These hunts can help support game populations by controlling predator numbers.

Coyote: Open season year-round, and no bag limits apply. Electronic calls and night vision equipment are allowed under specific regulations.
Bobcat: Allowed with a valid hunting license during open seasons. State bag limits apply, and pelts must be tagged per TWRA requirements.
Other Furbearers: Includes raccoons, opossums, foxes, and more. Seasons vary, so always consult the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) regulations.

Where to Hunt: Public Lands and WMAs

Tennessee is home to dozens of Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) where public hunting is permitted. Some areas require special permits or are limited to drawn hunts only. Be sure to review the TWRA hunting guide before heading out.

Licensing and Hunter Education

All hunters in Tennessee are required to purchase the appropriate licenses and permits. Youth, adults, residents, and non-residents have different options depending on the game species. Additionally, hunters born after January 1, 1969, must complete a state-approved Hunter Education Course before hunting unsupervised.

Final Thoughts

Whether it’s chasing deer through hardwood bottomlands, calling in spring gobblers, or enjoying small game hunting on a crisp fall day, Tennessee offers something for every hunter. Always check the most recent TWRA regulations before heading out, dress appropriately for the season, and hunt ethically and safely. With the right preparation and respect for the land and wildlife, your time in the Tennessee woods can be both successful and unforgettable.