2026-27 hunting and trapping seasons previews to be presented at March commission meeting
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) will present its recommendations for the 2026-27 hunting and trapping seasons at the Tennessee Fish and Wildlife Commission’s (TFWC) March 5-6 (Thursday-Friday) meeting at Buffalo Ridge Refuge in Humphreys County. Committee meetings start at 1 p.m. on Thursday, and full Commission proceedings begin at 9 a.m. on Friday. To watch both meetings, visit the TWRA YouTube Channel.
Wildlife and Forestry Chief Joe Benedict and Assistant Chief of Game Management Mark McBride will preview the hunting and trapping regulations. The Commission will vote on the 2026-27 regulations at its April 16-17 meeting to be held in Knoxville. Once approved, the regulations will become effective Aug. 1.
The Wildlife and Forestry Division will also provide an overview of big game harvest. Additionally, a preview of rule changes for clarification regarding rules and regulations governing hunts, permits, and drawings will be provided.
The North Cumberland WMA OHV (off-highway vehicle) rulemaking hearing will continue from the December TFWC meeting. A preview of the North Cumberland WMA OHV permit was presented and proposed at the TFWC’s October meeting.
Nominations for the 2026 Legacy Award and the 2026 Wally Childress TWRA R3 (Recruitment, Retention, Reactivation) Outstanding Leadership Award will also be presented. The Legacy Award was established in 2021 to recognize those people who demonstrate a commitment to hunting, fishing, and other outdoor lifestyles in Tennessee. The Wally Childress TWRA R3 Award is named in honor of the former commissioner who received the inaugural award for his efforts to introduce children and provide opportunities for many others to enjoy the outdoors.
This meeting marks the first led by newly appointed Chairman Greg Davenport (Franklin). Other officers elected during the January meeting include Vice Chair Rhonda Moody (Allardt) and Secretary Steve Jones (Clinton).
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.
For more news across the state, click here.
