When Does Deer Hunting Season Open in Tennessee?
Tennessee offers deer hunting opportunities for resident and non-resident hunters, with multiple seasons to ensure a sustainable deer population and quality hunting experience. But, when does deer hunting season open in Tennessee, you ask? November 13th is typically the start of the Archery Season, and later seasons follow, each with specific dates and regulations. Let’s dive deeper to help you plan your trip and make the most out of your Tennessee deer hunting adventure.
Overview of Deer Hunting Seasons in Tennessee
Tennessee’s deer hunting season is divided into multiple seasons, including archery, muzzleloader, modern gun, and primitive gun. Each season is designed to target a specific time frame, taking into account the deer’s movement patterns, breeding habits, and population dynamics. Below is a summary of each season:
- Archery Season: November 13th to February 14th (includes Antlerless Season: January 11th to 18th)
- Muzzleloader Season: February 20th to March 7th ( includes Antlerless Muzzleloader Season: January 26th to 30th)
- Modern Gun Season: Early September to Late November
- Primitive Gun Season: Late November to Mid-December
Notable Dates and Reminders
Before heading out, ensure you’re aware of these important dates:
- Archery Season Start: November 13th, marks the beginning of Tennessee’s archery deer season, which includes both doe and buck harvest.
- Antlerless Archery Season: January 11th to 18th, focuses on hunting female deer, with antler restrictions.
- Muzzleloader Season: February 20th to March 7th, featuring a muzzleloader-permit system.
- Youth Hunting Days: Dedicated days for young hunters to experience the thrill of hunting, with modified season dates and regulations.
- Special Hunts: Dates set aside for physically impaired hunters, veterans, and landowners, with designated dates and regulations.
Regional Variations
Some deer hunting seasons and bag limits may vary by Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) region, including:
- Tennessee Deer Management Zones: Six separate regions, each with distinct population dynamics and regulations (Region 1, Region 2, Region 3, Region 4, Region 5, and Region 6)
- Zone-specific Restrictions: Bag limits, youth days, and season lengths can differ between zones. Refer to the TWRA’s website for detailed information
Licenses, Permits, and Regulation Reminders
To partake in Tennessee deer hunting, you’ll need the following:
- Licenses: Resident or Non-Resident hunting license (valid for the state and season)
- Deer Permit: Requires purchase of a separate deer permit, available for a certain period
- Free Quota Hunt Permits: Available for limited quantities of deer, for resident hunters only
- Permit-Required Bag Limit: Ensure you possess the required permit before attempting to harvest deer exceeding your normal bag limit
- Hunting Regulations: Adhere to strict bag limits, hunting hours, and other regulations
Bag Limits and Possession Restrictions
- Annual Bag Limit: Three bucks per hunter, with limitations on antler size (one buck with a rack that measures 12 inches or more on at least one side, and/or two bucks with a rack measuring less than 12 inches on at least one side)
- Possession Limits: 3, six-point or larger (18 inches or more around, or with at least three points on one antler)
- Restrictions on Young Deer (Bucks): Allow young deer (less than one year old) are included in the daily limit
- Deer Partials: You are only allowed to take whole deer, with the carcass and all its entrails, to avoid illegal transporting of deer parts and game law violations
Plan Your Trip Wisely
Before heading out on your Tennessee deer hunting adventure:
- Research Zoning and Regulations: Familiarize yourself with regional bag limits, hunting hours, and other regulations
- Plan Your Gear and Preparations: Essential gear, clothing, and camouflage for success in the field
- Scout for Deer: Knowledgeable on deer habitats, behaviors, and movement patterns will give you an edge in harvesting deer
- Practice Wildlife-Friendly Hunting Techniques: Maintain a sustainable hunting strategy by avoiding overhunting, respecting wildlife, and complying with regulations
As the deer hunting season unfolds, Tennessee offers an experience filled with excitement, challenging game, and scenic opportunities to connect with nature. When does deer hunting season open in Tennessee? Now that you know the schedule and regulations, gear up, and get ready for a thrilling adventure! Join the thousands of eager hunters in Tennessee’s diverse wildlife areas and forests for an unforgettable experience.
References:
- Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA)
- Tennessee Deer Management Plan
- Tennessee’s Hunting Regulations
- Various outdoor and hunting publications, forums, and experts.
Remember to always check for any updates on hunting seasons and regulations before your trip to ensure you’re complying with the latest laws. Safe hunting!
