When does rifle season start in Tennessee?

When Does Rifle Season Start in Tennessee?

As one of the top whitetail deer hunting destinations in the country, Tennessee offers hunters a thrilling experience in the great outdoors. The state’s various rifle seasons provide ample opportunities to bag a trophy buck. In this article, we’ll explore when rifle season starts in Tennessee and provide a detailed breakdown of the hunting dates, zones, and regulations.

What You Need to Know Before Heading Out

Before we dive into the specifics, here are some essential facts to keep in mind:

• In Tennessee, there are multiple rifle seasons, each focusing on different periods of the year.
• The hunting zones in Tennessee are designated to help regulate and manage the deer population more effectively.
• Hunting license and permits are required to participate in rifle seasons, so be sure to apply early as available tags often sell out quickly.

Rifle Seasons in Tennessee

Here are the different rifle seasons in Tennessee, along with the corresponding dates and hunting zones:

• Private Lands Season:

  • Youth Hunting Week: September 9-16 (ages 17 and younger)
  • Private Lands Hunt: October 14-16 (by permit only)
  • Any Deer Weekend: October 22-23
  • Second Private Lands Hunt: December 15-18

• Public Lands Season:

  • Youth Hunting Week: September 16-23 (ages 17 and younger)
  • Public Lands Hunt: November 10-13 (by permit only)
  • General Firearms Season: December 12-18
  • Any Deer Weekend: January 7-8

Hunting Zone Maps

Here are the Tennessee rifle season hunting zone maps, organized by regions:

West Tennessee: This region includes the western third of the state and encompasses parts of the Appalachian Plateau. Hunting zones are as follows:

Central Tennessee: This region covers the middle third of the state and features a mix of forests, hills, and agricultural land. Hunting zones are as follows:

East Tennessee: This region comprises the eastern third of the state and boasts stunning mountains, forests, and lakes. Hunting zones are as follows:

Regulations and Guidelines

To ensure a successful and enjoyable hunting experience, keep in mind the following regulations and guidelines:

• Hunter Orange: Mandatory wearing of hunter orange on rifles during Public Lands and Any Deer weekends.
• Deer Bag Limit: Each hunter is limited to 8 deer total (any species) for the entire hunting season.
• Youth Hunting Guidelines: Young hunters (17 and younger) must be accompanied by an adult who has a valid hunting license and permits.
• Aerial Hunting: Some public lands are closed to hunting to protect sensitive habitat areas or during critical breeding and fawning periods. Be sure to check regulations for specific zones.

In Conclusion

Rifle seasons in Tennessee offer numerous opportunities to harvest a quality whitetail deer. From Youth Hunting Weeks to Private Lands Seasons, there’s a period tailored to every type of hunter. Always stay up-to-date on hunting regulations, permits, and hunting zones to ensure a safe and successful trip. Whether you’re an experienced hunter or a rookie, Tennessee’s rifle seasons promise an unforgettable experience. So gear up, head out, and join the Tennessee deer hunting legacy!