TWRA requests public input for 2027-28 fishing regulations

The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency is seeking public comments on the 2027-28 fishing regulations. This comment period, open through Thursday, Aug. 16, allows anglers and stakeholders to share feedback and suggestions with TWRA staff. Proposed regulation changes will be presented at the December meeting of the Tennessee Fish and Wildlife Commission. Public input is an important part of TWRA's fisheries management process. Comments are reviewed alongside scientific assessments to help determine effective strategies for managing Tennessee's aquatic resources while serving a diverse angling community. TWRA Fisheries personnel collect data on fish populations, habitat conditions, and angler use through various monitoring techniques and surveys. These efforts support decisions on habitat improvements, fish propagation and stocking, and other management actions. All collected information is considered during the regulation development process. An additional public comment period will follow TWRA's presentation to the Commission. Approved regulations will take effect Aug. 1, 2027. To submit comments, visit https://stateoftennessee.formstack.com/forms/2027_fishing_reg_public_comment. Deer Bait Privilege License now available The new Deer Bait Privilege License is now available on GoOutdoorsTennessee.com and in the TWRA On the Go App. The cost is $50 for a resident of Tennessee and $100 for a non-resident. Public Chapter No. 444, allowing hunting over bait for white-tailed deer, was initiated by the General Assembly and signed into law by Gov. Bill Lee in the 2025 Legislative Session. The TWRA is informing the public that all hunters wishing to hunt white-tailed deer over bait, are required to purchase this license regardless of exemptions, lifetime licenses, and age. It is valid only on private property (owned or leased), across all private properties the hunter may have access to and is valid for 365 days from the date of purchase. Under the new law, deer baiting is not allowed on Wildlife Management Areas, in the CWD Management Zone, or any CWD-positive county. For a list of counties in the CWD Management Zone and other positive counties, visit https://www.tn.gov/content/tn/twra/hunting/cwd/cwd-in-tennessee.html#distribution. There are specific types and amounts of bait that are authorized and other bait site rules that are in effect. A full list of the regulations for hunting over bait are listed online at https://www.tn.gov/content/tn/twra/hunting/big-game/deer.html#baiting. Feeding and baiting wildlife are regulated to protect both wildlife populations and the public. Concentrating animals increases the risk of spreading serious diseases such as CWD, bovine tuberculosis, and brucellosis, which can affect wildlife, livestock, and pets. Poor‑quality or improperly stored grains may contain aflatoxins that are highly toxic to species like turkeys and quail. Grain overload, or acidosis, can occur with sudden shifts to carbohydrate-rich diets (like corn) during winter, creating a disruption in normal digestive processes, sometimes resulting in fatal outcomes. Additionally, feed/bait can unintentionally attract raccoons, feral hogs, and growing black bear populations, increasing the likelihood of predation, nuisance issues, and habitat and property damage. Hunters should consider these issues when placing and leaving bait on the landscape. Wildlife Conservation Raffle to feature 15 prize packages The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Foundation has compiled outstanding prize packages for its annual Wildlife Conservation Raffle. This year's raffle has increased from 10 to 15 packages. The TWRF is a partner of the TWRA, and proceeds from the raffle fund important conservation projects such as public land acquisition and habitat management. The 2026 Wildlife Conservation Raffle includes prize packages, totaling more than $200,000 in value. This year's packages range from outdoor gear and equipment to experiences, including a Caymas CX 19 Pro, $50,000 Ford Voucher, Forest River FSX Camper, Trophy Deer Hunting Package, Waterfowl Hunting Package and more. Tickets are on sale now through Sunday, Nov. 8, and are available as single tickets for $20, three tickets for $50, and 10 for $100. There is no limit to the number of raffle tickets that can be purchased, and the more tickets purchased, the better opportunity there is of winning one of the packages. Raffle tickets may be purchased online directly at https://wildliferaffle.com. The 15 winning ticket numbers will be drawn on Tuesday, Nov. 10. The lucky winners will have the opportunity to select their prize in the order that they are drawn. The winners will be announced Nov. 12 via email and on the TWRF website. The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Foundation is a non-profit organization and, as a partner of the TWRA, is dedicated to promoting habitat conservation, responsible land stewardship, and Tennessee's hunting and fishing heritage for the benefit of Tennessee sportsmen and women.