Tennessee Archery Harvest Rose Over Opening Weekend
Bowhunters in Tennessee harvested 2,726 deer, marking a 64 percent increase over last year's opening weekend.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Hunting
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Tennessee bowhunters recorded 2,726 deer harvests during the opening weekend of archery season. This figure represents a 64 percent increase compared to the 1,655 deer harvested during the same period in 2025.
Why it matters
The jump in harvest numbers follows a legislative mandate requiring the state to offer a baiting option for hunters on private land. This shift in policy allows for the use of bait through the new state-issued Bait Privilege license program.
The Bait Privilege license is priced at $50 for residents and $100 for non-residents. As of early September 2026, 5,400 of these licenses have been purchased.
The players
Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency
This agency oversees the management of the state's wildlife resources and administers hunting regulations and licensing.
The details
Tennessee legislators passed a law requiring the wildlife agency to implement the baiting option for deer hunting on private land. Baiting remains strictly prohibited in any Tennessee county where chronic wasting disease has been documented.
Timeline
August 2026 saw a 25 percent increase in the buck season harvest.
5,400 Bait Privilege licenses were sold as of early September 2026.
The archery season opening weekend took place from September 26-27, 2026.
Culture Shift
The introduction of the Bait Privilege license reflects a broader shift toward modernized private land management policies in the state. This move mirrors trends in other regions where legislative bodies are increasingly shaping specific harvest strategies to accommodate private land interests.
Hunters interested in utilizing bait on private land must secure a Bait Privilege license before participating. Residents should verify if their county is impacted by chronic wasting disease restrictions before using bait, as these areas remain exempt from the new law.
The takeaway
The successful implementation of the baiting program suggests a notable shift in how hunters interact with private land in the state. Participants are encouraged to stay updated on disease-related restrictions to ensure continued compliance with state wildlife protocols.
Further reading
For additional insights on state wildlife management and harvest trends, visit the Hunting section.
More information
Review the latest data and manage your permits through the Tennessee Hunters Toolbox harvest records.
Live Poll
Do you support the use of baiting for deer hunting in your state?
