Tennessee’s 2025-2026 Deer Seasons: Zones, Tags, and Essential Dates for the Volunteer State
Welcome to your one-stop resource for all things related to deer hunting in Tennessee for the 2025-2026 cycle! Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just starting out, this guide breaks down everything you need to know—from precise dates for archery, muzzleloader, and gun periods to wildlife management zones, tag fees, and regulations. We’ve also included helpful FAQs and tips to ensure your time afield is both successful and memorable. Let’s dive in! 🦌
🗓️ Quick Overview: Tennessee’s Deer Seasons at a Glance
For those who like to plan ahead, here’s a snapshot of the key periods for pursuing whitetails in the Volunteer State. These dates are consistent with the recently approved seasons by the Tennessee Fish and Wildlife Commission .
| Season Type | Dates | Statewide Antlered Bag Limit | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Archery Only (Private Land & Select WMAs) | Aug. 22–Aug. 24, 2025 | 2 (1 per day) | Units 1, 2, 3 only; Units 4, 5, 6 closed for antlerless harvest . |
| Young Sportsman | Oct. 25–26, 2025; Jan. 10–11, 2026 | 3 per day | For youths 6-16; accompanied by non-hunting adult 21+ . |
| Archery | Sept. 27–Oct. 24, 2025; Oct. 27–Nov. 7, 2025 | 4 | Legal during all other seasons . |
| Muzzleloader/Archery | Nov. 8–Nov. 21, 2025 | 2 | Muzzleloading equipment also allowed during gun period . |
| Gun/Muzzleloader/Archery | Nov. 22, 2025–Jan. 4, 2026 | 2 | Primary general firearm period . |
📅 Detailed Breakdown: All Deer Seasons in Tennessee
Tennessee’s framework offers diverse opportunities across multiple seasons. All hunters must be aware of the specific dates, bag limits, and equipment regulations for each segment.
Archery Season
- Dates: September 27, 2025, to October 24, 2025; and October 27, 2025, to November 7, 2025.
- Details: This extended period is perfect for those who enjoy the challenge of bowhunting. Archers can harvest antlered deer within the statewide bag limit of two, but may take additional deer only under specific programs like Earn-A-Buck in CWD counties or on certain WMAs . Remember, archery equipment remains legal throughout all other periods.
Muzzleloader Season
- Dates: November 8, 2025, to November 21, 2025.
- Details: This season bridges the gap between archery and general firearm periods. The statewide antlered bag limit for this season is two deer. Muzzleloading firearms are also permitted during the general gun season .
General Gun Season
- Dates: November 22, 2025, to January 4, 2026.
- Details: This is the most popular time to be in the woods. Hunters can use firearms, muzzleloaders, or archery tackle. The antlered bag limit is two deer statewide, with opportunities to exceed this limit under bonus, Earn-A-Buck, or replacement buck provisions in certain areas .
Young Sportsman Season
- Dates: October 25-26, 2025, and January 10-11, 2026.
- Details: A fantastic opportunity for young hunters (ages 6-16) to experience the outdoors. Participants must be accompanied by a non-hunting adult who is at least 21 years old. The bag limit is generous at three deer per day, with specific antlerless limits applying in different units .
Special August Season (Archery Only)
- Dates: August 22-24, 2025.
- Details: An early chance to get afield, but with restrictions. This season is only open on private lands and select Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) in Units 1, 2, and 3. Antlerless harvest is closed during this early period .
🗺️ Understanding Zones and Antlerless Harvest
Tennessee manages deer populations through District Management Units (DMUs), which group counties together. Your antlerless harvest opportunities depend heavily on which unit you are hunting in.
- Units 1, 2, & 3: These units typically have more liberal antlerless bag limits, as seen during the Young Sportsman season .
- Units 4, 5, & 6: Regulations here are often more conservative to protect the herd. For example, the antlerless harvest was closed during the August season, and the Young Sportsman antlerless limit is capped at two deer for the entire four-day period .
Always consult the official TWRA website or the current year’s hunting guide for the most precise county-by-county regulations.
📋 Tennessee Deer Regulations: What You Need to Know
Following the rules is key to a safe and legal experience. Here are some of the most critical regulations for hunters in Tennessee:
- Tagging and Checking: All harvested deer must be tagged and checked through the TWRA’s official system.
- Fluorescent Orange/Pink: Hunters are required to wear fluorescent orange or pink during certain seasons. A new law amendment now allows fluorescent pink to meet the visibility requirements .
- Legal Deer Definitions: An antlered deer is defined as any deer (male or female) with at least one antler measuring three inches or longer. An antlerless deer has no antlers or antlers shorter than three inches .
- Bag Limits: The statewide antlered bag limit is two deer (one per day). This limit may be exceeded only under specific circumstances (bonus deer on certain WMAs, Earn-A-Buck in CWD-positive counties, or as a replacement buck). Antlerless bag limits are set by DMU .
- CWD Regulations: Special regulations, including Earn-A-Buck programs, may be in effect for counties positive for Chronic Wasting Disease. Always check www.CWDinTennessee.com for the most current list of affected counties and rules .
🎟️ License and Tag Fees for Tennessee Deer Hunters
To participate, all hunters must possess the correct licenses. Here’s a simplified breakdown of the costs involved .
Resident Licenses & Permits
| License Type | Cost | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Hunting & Fishing Combination | $33 | Base license required; supplemental licenses needed for big game. |
| Annual Big Game Gun Supplemental | $33 | Required to take deer with a firearm. |
| Annual Big Game Archery Supplemental | $33 | Required to take deer with archery equipment. |
| Annual Big Game Muzzleloader Supplemental | $33 | Required to take deer with a muzzleloader. |
| Annual Sportsman License | $165 | All-inclusive license; covers all hunting, fishing, and trapping. |
Non-Resident Licenses
| License Type | Cost | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 7-Day Hunting (All Game) | $214 | For those planning a shorter trip. |
| Annual Hunting (All Game) | $305 | For non-residents who will hunt throughout the season. |
Important Permits
- WMA Big Game Permit: Required for hunting big game on any Wildlife Management Area. Costs $24 for residents and non-residents .
- Apprentice License: For those over 10 who haven’t completed hunter education. Costs $11 and is valid for one year .
✅ Tennessee Deer License Requirements
Who needs a license? The rules are specific :
- Residents: Anyone aged 13-64 must have a valid license. Several exemptions exist, including landowners hunting on their own farmland, their immediate family, and spouses.
- Seniors: Residents 65+ have several affordable options, including a Permanent Senior Citizen license for $49.
- Youths: Residents aged 13-15 need a Junior Hunt/Trap/Fish license ($9). Those under 13 are exempt.
- Non-Residents: All non-residents aged 13+ must have the appropriate license.
- Hunter Education: Mandatory for anyone born on or after January 1, 1969.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use my bow during rifle season?
A: Yes! Archery equipment is legal during all seasons, including muzzleloader and general gun .
Q: What is the bag limit for deer in Tennessee?
A: The statewide antlered limit is two deer (one per day). Antlerless limits vary by DMU. These limits can be exceeded only under specific programs like Earn-A-Buck or on certain WMAs .
Q: Are there any free hunting days?
A: Yes. Tennessee offers a Free Hunting Day. For 2024, it was scheduled for August 24 . Check for the 2025 date as the season approaches.
Q: Do I need a special permit to hunt on public land?
A: Yes. In addition to your hunting license, a WMA permit is required to hunt on Wildlife Management Areas. The type of permit (big game, small game) depends on your activity .
Q: Can a license be replaced if lost?
A: Absolutely. You can reprint all your licenses at no cost via GoOutdoorsTennessee.com, or replace them at any license agent for an $8 fee .
🏁 Conclusion
Tennessee’s 2025-2026 deer seasons offer a fantastic array of opportunities for hunters of all ages and preferences. From the early anticipation of the August archery period to the late chances in January during the Young Sportsman weekend, there’s plenty of time to create lasting memories in the woods. Remember to always check the most current regulations, secure the proper licenses and permits for your chosen zone and method, and most importantly, hunt safely and ethically.
ℹ️ Hunting rules can change, so always confirm all dates, zones, and bag limits with the official Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) before your hunt. For the most authoritative information, visit the 🔗 TWRA Official Website.
- Wyoming Deer Season 2025-2026 New Schedule & Rules - 15 September 2025
- Wisconsin Deer Season 2025-2026: WI Deer Hunting Guide [Schedule, Rules, Licenses] - 15 September 2025
- West Virginia Deer Season 2025-2026 Complete Date & Guide - 15 September 2025
