When Does Deer Hunting End in Tennessee?
Tennessee is renowned for its rich deer hunting heritage, with a long history of providing recreational opportunities for hunters. The state’s diverse landscape, ranging from the Great Smoky Mountains to the rolling hills of the Cumberland Plateau, offers a unique hunting experience for deer enthusiasts. However, the question remains: when does deer hunting end in Tennessee?
Regular Season
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) regulates deer hunting in the state, and the regular season typically runs from late October to mid-December. The exact dates vary depending on the region and type of deer being hunted. Here’s a breakdown of the regular season dates for the 2022-2023 season:
| Region | Type of Deer | Dates |
|---|---|---|
| East | White-tailed deer | October 29 – November 27 |
| Central | White-tailed deer | October 29 – November 27 |
| West | White-tailed deer | October 29 – November 27 |
| Special Youth Season | White-tailed deer | October 22-23 |
| Special Antlerless Season | White-tailed deer | November 28-December 4 |
Special Seasons
In addition to the regular season, Tennessee offers several special seasons for deer hunting. These seasons provide opportunities for hunters to harvest deer during specific times of the year or in specific areas. Some of the special seasons include:
- Youth Season: A special season for youth hunters (ages 11-17) to hunt white-tailed deer. The dates for the 2022-2023 season are October 22-23.
- Antlerless Season: A special season for hunters to harvest antlerless deer (does and fawns). The dates for the 2022-2023 season are November 28-December 4.
- Late Antlerless Season: A special season for hunters to harvest antlerless deer in specific areas. The dates for the 2022-2023 season are December 5-11.
Bag Limits and Permits
Hunters in Tennessee are subject to bag limits and permits when hunting deer. The bag limit for white-tailed deer is one buck and two does per hunter per season. Antlerless deer can be harvested without a permit, but a permit is required for bucks.
Hunting Hours
Hunting hours for deer in Tennessee are typically from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset. However, hunters should check the specific hunting hours for their region and type of deer being hunted.
Important Dates
Here are some important dates to keep in mind when planning your deer hunt in Tennessee:
- License Sales: Deer hunting licenses go on sale in early July for the upcoming season.
- Season Deadlines: The deadline to apply for special seasons, such as the Youth Season and Antlerless Season, is typically in late August.
- Check Stations: Check stations are open during the regular season to collect deer heads and antlers. The deadline to check in deer is typically 10 days after the close of the season.
Conclusion
Deer hunting in Tennessee is a popular recreational activity, and understanding the regulations and seasons is crucial for a successful hunt. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a newcomer to the sport, it’s essential to know when deer hunting ends in Tennessee. By following the regular season, special seasons, bag limits, and permits, you’ll be well-prepared for a fun and safe hunting experience in the Volunteer State.
