2026-27 Hunting Seasons to Be Set at April Commission Meeting in Knoxville

NASHVILLE --- The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency's (TWRA) Wildlife and Forestry Division will present recommendations for the 2026-27 hunting and trapping seasons to the Tennessee Fish and Wildlife Commission for review and approval at its April 16-17 (Thursday-Friday) meeting at the UT Institute of Agriculture Plant Biotechnology Building in Knoxville. Committee meetings begin at 1 p.m. (EDT) on Thursday, with full Commission proceedings starting at 9 a.m. on Friday. To watch both days of the meeting, visit the TWRA YouTube Channel.

At the Agency's March meeting preview, there were no proposed changes for big game seasons. However, the Commission discussed the start date of spring turkey hunting season. Wildlife Management Area (WMA) recommendations were presented with only a few changes across the state. Additionally, TWRA announced two flintlock heritage hunts in partnership with Tennessee State Parks. A public input period was conducted on the proposals following the March meeting, and an overview of the comments will be presented.

A review of the proposals will be made during Thursday's committee meetings. The full Commission will vote on Friday. Once approved, the regulations will become effective Aug. 1.

Furthermore, the North Cumberland WMA OHV (off-highway vehicle) rulemaking hearing will continue as it was rolled over from the March meeting.

Award presentations will take place on Friday. Recipients of the 2026 Legacy Award and the 2026 Wally Childress TWRA R3 (Recruitment, Retention, Reactivation) Outstanding Leadership Award, announced at the March meeting, will be recognized in person. The Quail Forever-Smoky Mountain Chapter is the 2026 Wally Childress TWRA R3 Outstanding Leadership Award honoree, and Tom Beasley is the 2026 Legacy Award recipient. Additionally, TWRA Executive Director Jason Maxedon will present a special Courageous Award.

The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency is responsible for protecting, managing, and conserving fish and wildlife species for the benefit of Tennesseans and visitors. The Agency also maintains public safety through law enforcement and safety education on waterways.

---TWRA--