When Does Rifle Season Start in Tennessee?
When Does Rifle Season Start in TN?
Rifle season is a time-honored tradition for many Tennesseans, and it’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors and get some fresh air. But when does rifle season start in TN?
The answer to that question depends on the type of game you’re hunting. For deer, rifle season typically starts in early November and runs through the end of January. For turkey, rifle season starts in late March and runs through the end of May. And for small game, rifle season typically starts in early September and runs through the end of February.
Of course, specific dates and regulations may vary depending on the county you’re hunting in, so it’s always important to check with the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) before you head out.
But no matter when rifle season starts in TN, it’s a great time to get out and enjoy the great outdoors. So grab your rifle, your gear, and head to the woods!
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| Date | Species | Zone |
|---|---|---|
| November 9 | Deer | Zone 1 |
| November 16 | Deer | Zone 2 |
| November 23 | Deer | Zone 3 |
| November 30 | Deer | Zone 4 |
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Rifle season is a popular time to hunt for big game in Tennessee. The state offers a variety of rifle seasons for deer, elk, bear, and other game animals. The dates of each season vary depending on the species and the area of the state.
This article provides detailed information on rifle season dates in Tennessee. We’ll cover general rifle season dates, early and late archery seasons, and special rifle seasons. We’ll also discuss the species that are available during each season.
Rifle Season Dates in Tennessee
General Rifle Season Dates
The general rifle season for deer in Tennessee runs from November 15 to January 15. The season is divided into two parts: the early season (November 15-28) and the late season (December 1-January 15).
The early season is open for all deer hunters, regardless of their hunting license type. The late season is open only to hunters who have purchased a deer permit.
Early and Late Archery Seasons
In addition to the general rifle season, Tennessee also offers early and late archery seasons for deer. The early archery season runs from September 1 to October 31, and the late archery season runs from January 16 to February 28.
The early archery season is open for all deer hunters, regardless of their hunting license type. The late archery season is open only to hunters who have purchased a deer permit.
Special Rifle Seasons
In addition to the general rifle season and the early and late archery seasons, Tennessee also offers a number of special rifle seasons for deer. These seasons are designed to provide hunters with additional opportunities to harvest deer.
Some of the special rifle seasons in Tennessee include:
- The antlerless-only season, which runs from November 29 to December 14.
- The muzzleloader season, which runs from December 15 to January 1.
- The youth season, which runs from December 15 to January 1.
Species Available During Rifle Season
The following species are available during rifle season in Tennessee:
- Deer
- Elk
- Bear
- Other game animals (such as turkey, squirrel, and rabbit)
Rifle season is a great time to hunt for big game in Tennessee. The state offers a variety of rifle seasons for deer, elk, bear, and other game animals. The dates of each season vary depending on the species and the area of the state.
Be sure to check the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency website for the most up-to-date information on rifle season dates and regulations.
3. Hunting Regulations for Rifle Season
Rifle season is a popular time to hunt for deer, elk, and other big game animals. In Tennessee, there are a number of regulations in place to ensure the safety of hunters and the sustainability of wildlife populations.
Permits and licenses required
All hunters in Tennessee are required to have a hunting license. Licenses can be purchased online or at any number of sporting goods stores. The cost of a license varies depending on the type of license and the age of the hunter.
In addition to a hunting license, hunters who are planning to hunt with a rifle during rifle season must also have a big game hunting permit. These permits are issued by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) and can be purchased online or at any TWRA office. The cost of a big game hunting permit varies depending on the type of animal being hunted.
Bag limits and shooting hours
The bag limit for deer during rifle season is one antlered buck per hunter. The bag limit for elk is one bull per hunter. The bag limit for other big game animals varies depending on the species.
Shooting hours for rifle season vary depending on the time of year. During the early season, hunters are allowed to shoot from sunrise to sunset. During the late season, hunters are allowed to shoot from one hour before sunrise to one hour after sunset.
Hunting methods allowed
During rifle season, hunters are allowed to use rifles, shotguns, and muzzleloaders. The use of handguns is prohibited.
4. Tips for Success During Rifle Season
Rifle season can be a challenging time to hunt, but there are a number of things you can do to increase your chances of success.
Scouting and planning
The first step to a successful hunt is scouting the area where you plan to hunt. This will help you identify the best areas to set up your stand and the best times to hunt.
When scouting, pay attention to the type of cover available, the food sources in the area, and the travel routes of the animals you are hunting. You should also try to identify any potential hunting hazards, such as fallen trees or dense brush.
Choosing the right equipment
The type of equipment you use can make a big difference in your success during rifle season. When choosing a rifle, make sure it is the right caliber for the game you are hunting. You should also choose a rifle that is comfortable to shoot and that you are confident in your ability to use.
In addition to a rifle, you will also need a scope, a sling, and a hunting backpack. You may also want to consider investing in a rangefinder, a spotting scope, and a tree stand.
Practicing your shooting skills
The best way to improve your shooting skills is to practice regularly. This will help you develop a consistent shot and increase your chances of making a clean kill.
When practicing, focus on shooting from different positions and at different distances. You should also practice shooting at moving targets.
Staying safe while hunting
Hunting is a safe activity, but there are a number of things you can do to stay safe while you are in the woods.
- Always wear a blaze orange vest or hat when you are hunting. This will help other hunters see you and avoid accidents.
- Be aware of your surroundings and the potential hazards in the area.
- Never shoot at a target that you cannot clearly identify.
- Treat all firearms as if they are loaded, even when they are not.
- Be careful when handling ammunition.
- Never drink alcohol or take drugs while you are hunting.
When does rifle season start in TN?
Rifle season for deer in Tennessee begins on November 15 and ends on January 31. However, the specific dates of rifle season vary by county, so be sure to check the regulations for your specific area.
What types of rifles are allowed for deer hunting in TN?
All rifles with a minimum barrel length of 16 inches are legal for deer hunting in Tennessee. However, some counties have additional restrictions on the types of rifles that can be used. Be sure to check the regulations for your specific area.
What are the bag limits for deer hunting in TN?
The bag limit for deer hunting in Tennessee is two deer per day, with a maximum of eight deer per season. However, some counties have lower bag limits, so be sure to check the regulations for your specific area.
What are the best places to hunt deer in TN?
There are many great places to hunt deer in Tennessee. Some of the best areas include the Cumberland Plateau, the Appalachian Mountains, and the Mississippi River Valley. However, the best place to hunt deer will vary depending on your specific hunting goals and preferences.
What are some tips for successful deer hunting in TN?
Here are a few tips for successful deer hunting in Tennessee:
- Scout the area thoroughly before the season begins.
- Pay attention to the weather and wind conditions.
- Use a variety of hunting methods, including still-hunting, spot-and-stalk, and calling.
- Be patient and persistent.
Where can I learn more about deer hunting in TN?
There are a number of resources available to learn more about deer hunting in Tennessee. Here are a few of the best:
- The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) website: https://www.tn.gov/twra/
- The TWRA’s Deer Hunting Guide: https://www.tn.gov/twra/documents/deer-hunting-guide.pdf
- The TWRA’s Deer Hunting Regulations: https://www.tn.gov/twra/documents/deer-hunting-regulations.pdf
- The National Rifle Association (NRA) website: https://www.nra.org/
- The NRA’s Deer Hunting page: https://www.nra.org/articles/deer-hunting/
the rifle season in Tennessee begins on November 1st and ends on January 1st. The bag limit is one antlered deer per hunter per day. The best time to hunt is during the early morning and evening hours. Hunters should be aware of the local regulations and be sure to wear blaze orange clothing.