Tennessee Turkey License: What License do You Need to Hunt Turkey in Tennessee?

Hunting wild Turkey in Tennessee is a popular outdoor activity that requires proper licensing and adherence to state regulations. Understanding the specific license requirements is essential for both residents and nonresidents who want to enjoy Turkey hunting legally and responsibly. This guide will clarify what type of Tennessee Turkey license you need, the permits involved, season dates, bag limits, and other important considerations to ensure a successful and lawful hunting experience in the Volunteer State.

Do You Need a License to Hunt Turkey in Tennessee?

To hunt turkey in Tennessee, hunters must first obtain a valid hunting license issued by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA). This requirement applies to both residents and nonresidents during the designated spring or fall turkey seasons.

In addition to the base hunting license, turkey hunters must also purchase the Supplemental Big Game License (Type 009) or hold a license that includes big game privileges, such as the Sportsman License. This additional license is required for the legal harvest of turkeys and ensures compliance with state wildlife regulations.

Hunter education certification is required for anyone born on or after January 1, 1969, prior to purchasing most hunting licenses. However, Tennessee also offers an Apprentice Hunting License, which allows hunters age 10 and older to hunt under supervision without completing hunter education for up to three years.

To legally hunt turkey in Tennessee, you must:

• Purchase a valid Tennessee hunting license (resident or nonresident)

• Obtain the Big Game Supplemental License (unless already covered by a Sportsman license)

• Complete a hunter education course if born on or after January 1, 1969, or use an Apprentice License if eligible

These requirements support ethical, safe hunting and help conserve Tennessee’s wild turkey populations for future generations.

Season Dates for Turkey in Tennessee

The Turkey hunting season in Tennessee typically runs from early spring through late spring, with specific dates varying slightly each year. The season is divided into different segments based on weapon type and geographic zones within the state.

Archery-only seasons usually open earlier, followed by general firearm seasons. Some zones may have special youth-only or muzzleloader-only days. It is crucial to consult the official Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency website for the most current and detailed season dates.

For example, the spring Turkey season often begins in late March or early April and closes by mid-May. Fall Turkey hunting is generally not permitted in Tennessee.

Always verify the exact dates and any zone-specific restrictions before planning your hunt to ensure compliance with state regulations.

Bag Limits and Legal Hunting Methods

Turkey hunters in Tennessee are subject to strict bag limits designed to support sustainable wild turkey populations and fair chase ethics. Limits differ slightly between spring and fall seasons and are enforced statewide by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA).

Spring Turkey Season

• Daily Bag Limit: 1 male turkey per day

• Season Bag Limit: 2 male turkeys total for the spring season

• Jake Limit: Only one of the two birds may be a jake (a juvenile male)

• Bearded Hens: Harvesting bearded hens is prohibited

• Tagging Requirement: All turkeys must be tagged and checked in as required by TWRA regulations

Fall Turkey Season

• Season Bag Limit: 1 male turkey total for the fall season

• Note: The fall turkey may be harvested during any open fall turkey hunting period but must be a male

Young Sportsman Hunts (Ages 6–16)

• Bag Limit: Same as the general spring season — 1 male turkey per day, with a maximum of 2 total per spring

• Youth harvests count toward the hunter’s overall spring bag limit

Additional Rules

• Bag limits apply statewide, including public lands (WMAs); there are no bonus birds for hunting on public land

• All harvested birds must remain intact until tagging and check-in are completed using TWRA’s Game Check system

• Violations of bag limits can result in fines, license suspension, and confiscation of game or equipment

Legal hunting methods include the use of archery equipment, shotguns, and muzzleloaders during their respective seasons. The use of rifles for Turkey hunting is prohibited. Additionally, hunters must adhere to regulations regarding the use of decoys, calls, and other hunting accessories.

It is illegal to hunt Turkey on Sundays on private lands unless the landowner grants permission. Hunters should also be aware of any local ordinances or special restrictions in Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs).

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on bag limits and legal methods, always consult the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency’s official publications and website.

Where Can You Hunt Turkey in Tennessee?

Tennessee offers numerous opportunities for Turkey hunting across public and private lands. Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) managed by the TWRA provide accessible public hunting grounds with designated Turkey hunting zones.

Popular WMAs for Turkey hunting include the Cherokee National Forest, Big Ridge State Park, and the Reelfoot Lake area. Hunters must obtain any required permits and follow specific WMA regulations when hunting on these lands.

Private land hunting is also common, but always requires explicit permission from the landowner. Respect for private property and adherence to all legal requirements are essential.

For detailed maps and tools to locate public hunting lands in Tennessee, visit the TWRA’s official public land hunting maps page. These resources help hunters plan their trips and identify legal hunting areas efficiently.

Meet Hunter Education Requirements

Hunter education is a critical component of Tennessee’s wildlife conservation and safety efforts. To purchase a Tennessee hunting license, most hunters born after January 1, 1969, must have completed an approved hunter education course.

The course covers essential topics such as firearm safety, wildlife identification, ethical hunting practices, and state regulations. Completion certificates are required when applying for a hunting license.

There are exceptions for hunters under a certain age or those hunting under direct supervision of a licensed adult. However, it is recommended that all hunters complete the education course to ensure safe and responsible hunting.

For more information and to find approved hunter education courses in Tennessee, visit https://recademics.com/hunting/Tennessee.

How to Buy a Tennessee Hunting License

You can purchase your Tennessee hunting license for Turkey through the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency. Licenses are available both online and in-person at authorized vendors such as sporting goods stores and TWRA offices.

To buy online, visit the official TWRA licensing portal where you can select the appropriate hunting license and Turkey permit, complete the application, and pay securely. The system will issue your license electronically, which you can print or carry on a mobile device.

In-person purchases allow you to receive assistance from staff and obtain physical copies of your license and permits immediately.

For detailed step-by-step instructions and additional information on obtaining a Tennessee hunting license, visit https://recademics.com/blog/hunting/how-to-get-a-hunting-license-in-Tennessee/.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a separate Turkey permit in addition to a hunting license in Tennessee?

Yes, in Tennessee, hunters must have both a valid hunting license and a Turkey permit to legally hunt Turkey during the season.

Are nonresidents required to have a Tennessee hunting license to hunt Turkey?

Yes, nonresidents must purchase a Tennessee hunting license and the Turkey permit to hunt Turkey legally in the state.

Is hunter education mandatory to buy a Tennessee Turkey license?

Hunter education is required for hunters born after January 1, 1969, before purchasing a hunting license in Tennessee.

Where can I find official season dates for Turkey hunting in Tennessee?

Official season dates are published annually by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency and can be found on their website.

Can I hunt Turkey on public lands in Tennessee?

Yes, Turkey hunting is allowed on designated Wildlife Management Areas and other public lands, provided you have the proper licenses and follow all regulations.