TWRA waiving license requirements for Tennessee residents Saturday to coincide with the opening day of squirrel season.
Region 3 Wildlife Biologist Casey Mullen said the free hunting day is part of a “R3” initiative designed to recruit, retain, and reactivate hunters across the state. Mullen said the agency wants to remove the immediate barrier of licensing costs.
“We’re trying to encourage people to take someone that may have never had the opportunity to get out in the woods and experience hunting a chance to go do it without any charge as far as licenses are concerned,” Mullen said. “I will add that the hunter ed requirement is still there, but there’s an opportunity to circumvent that by getting the apprentice license.”
Mullen said anyone born after 1969 is still required to have hunter education or an apprentice license for safety reasons. Mullen said the apprentice license is geared toward younger hunters who lack firearm safety experience and requires them to be accompanied by an experienced hunter.
“It’s kind of the kickoff of the hunting season for small game hunters,” Mullen said. “Opening days are historically very high participation days.”
Mullen said small game hunting is an ideal introduction for beginners because it is more engaging and interactive than deer hunting. Mullen said the daily bag limit for squirrels is 10, and hunters typically use rimfire rifles or shotguns with number four shot or smaller.
“Small game hunting in general is an excellent way to introduce new or young hunters to the sport,” Mullen said. “Compared to deer season, there’s much more activity.”
Mullen said most wildlife management areas across the state are open for small game hunting on Saturday for those who do not have access to private property. Mullen said hunters should remain aware of late-summer safety concerns, including active snakes and insects.
“Hunting is probably the most valuable tool we have as wildlife managers,” Mullen said. “So we have to encourage hunters to be out there not only for license sales obviously for financial reasons but just for the preserving the tradition of hunting in Tennessee.”
Mullen said hunting was declared a right in Tennessee several years ago and remains a deeply rooted tradition. Mullen said the agency views hunting as a critical management tool and a way to maintain the state’s heritage during changing times.
“I would absolutely encourage everyone that has a decent place and has the interest and the patience to take someone, take them, get a few squirrels and show them the whole process,” Mullen said.
Residents interested in participating can consult the state hunting guide or contact a Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency regional office for specific information on local wildlife management areas.
