Tennessee WildCast

Join us for an exciting episode as we head to Smith & Wesson's headquarters in Maryville, Tennessee to visit with President & CEO Mark Smith. Dive into the rich history of this iconic firearms company, from its founding by Horace Smith and Daniel B. Wesson to its evolution into a leader in revolvers, pistols, long guns, and more. Explore the craftsmanship, innovation, and legacy that make Smith & Wesson a household name. Whether you're a gun enthusiast or simply curious about the business behind the barrel, this episode is a must-listen!

Life jackets save lives—that's why they're called what they're called. In this episode, Chris Hennessee joins us to dive into why common sense on the water is more important than ever. Whether you're duck hunting, fishing, or just out on the lake, small precautions like wearing a life jacket and planning ahead can make all the difference. Tune in for practical tips, life-saving advice, and a reminder that common sense isn't always so common anymore.

Join us at Smoky Mountain Knife Works, the ultimate destination for all things sharp and collectible! From legendary Christmas trappers to fossils, World War II memorabilia, firearms and unique gift ideas, this iconic Tennessee spot has it all. Chief Operating Officer Josh Hill sits down with us to share some of the top products for your holiday shopping—don't miss this fun and festive episode! Special thanks to the SMKW for their support of the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Foundation.

Join Daniel Jerrolds as he shares his passion for blending horseback adventures, public land hunting, and the challenges of working with dogs in the wild. From turkey hunts on public land to the thrill of training a good dog, Daniel and the WildCast Crew reflect on the rewards of embracing the outdoors and making the most of Tennessee's rich natural resources.

Outdoorsman Daniel Jerrolds shares his journey, built on two lifelong passions: hunting and horses. Hear firsthand about his Spring turkey opening day success, doubling up on beautiful birds while encountering an unexpected visitor, and the unforgettable moment of spotting and taking down a "pinnacle" deer. These stories capture the thrill of the hunt and the dedication it takes to make each moment in the field count.

From hatching eggs to releasing fully grown fish, discover the year-round, seven-days-a-week dedication that keeps Tennessee's rainbow trout populations thriving. Hatchery Manager Roger Bitz and his crew produce nearly 350,000 fish a year weighing in at 80 to 90,000 pounds. With 24 raceways, spring-fed water at a constant 58°F, and daily care—even on holidays—this is fish farming at its finest! Roger will also share some gator stories from his early days as a biologist in Florida. Don't miss this episode! Watch: https://youtu.be/X3BH_dztblg

Join us as we dive into over 75 years of wildlife conservation history! In this episode, we explore the fascinating story of Tennessee's early conservation efforts, with special guest Lt. Andy Collins showcasing rare collectibles, including licenses, badges, and more. Hear about the first game warden, Colonel Joseph H. Acklen, and discover how wildlife conservation in Tennessee began long before 1949. Get ready for a unique trip back in time with incredible artifacts and stories that shaped the foundation of wildlife enforcement!

On this episode of Tennessee WildCast, we dive into the world of hunting mature whitetails, one of the most exciting times of the year for hunters. Our special guest, seasoned deer hunter Jimmy Kyle, shares his expertise and experiences on how to consistently track and harvest trophy bucks. With years of dedication and learning under his belt, Jimmy has perfected the art of patterning mature deer, and he's here to help you up your game. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or just starting, get ready for valuable insights, tips, and strategies to improve your chances of bagging that big buck this season! #tnwildlife #gooutdoorstennessee #tnwildcast

Bears may wander through your yard, but with the right steps, you can keep them from sticking around. In this episode, we dive into practical tips from BearWise, a great resource for reducing human-bear conflicts. From securing trash, dog food, and even bird feeders (aka "bear feeders"), to understanding the root of the problem, we'll show you how communities can work together to prevent bear issues. With record-breaking call volumes this year, it's more important than ever to take action and find long-term solutions. Tune in to learn how small changes can make a big difference!

Today, we're coming to you from the Waterfowl Festival at Bogota WMA. It's been a fantastic day, with everything from seminars to tours, kids' games, and even a calling contest! Huge thanks to Bogota WMA Manager, Josh Emerson, and his crew, not only for their hard work in preparing for the festival but also for their efforts in getting crops planted to enhance the hunting experience for the upcoming season. We're also joined by Jamie Feddersen, TWRA's Waterfowl Coordinator, who will share insights from his 23 years of experience managing waterfowl populations. Stay tuned for an exciting show! #tnwildlife #gooutdoorstennessee #tnwildcast

Join us for a fascinating dive into the world of Purple Martins! Discover how these amazing birds rely on manmade structures for nesting, their incredible aerial feeding habits, and their migratory journey to South America. We'll also explore the use of radio transmitters to track their movements and answer some intriguing questions about their roosting behavior right here near Nashville! Special thanks to Graham Gerdeman, the Nashville Birder on YouTube for sharing photos and video for this episode.  Visit  https://www.youtube.com/@NashvilleBirder to see more of Grahams work. Also check out his Instagram page at https://www.instagram.com/graham_gerdeman/. #tnwildlife #gooutdoorstennessee #tnwildcast

TN WildCast Celebrating 400 Episodes of Stories and Insights - TN WildCast 400 400 Episodes! Jason and Don take a trip down memory lane, reflecting on some of the most memorable moments from Tennessee WildCast. They also provide an in-depth recap of the latest news and developments from the recent Tennessee Fish and Wildlife Commission Meeting, highlighting key takeaways. #tnwildlife #gooutdoorstennessee #tnwildcast

Discover the latest at the Nashville Zoo! From playful tiger cubs to behind-the-scenes animal care, this episode dives into the exciting exhibits and TWRA partnerships. It's going to be a wild ride, including a surprising snake encounter in the most unexpected place! #tnwildlife #gooutdoorstennessee #tnwildcast

Football and deer season are right around the corner. For many, it is our favorite time of year. Join us as we kick off this Fall season and discuss Tennessee's new deer hunting units. Get the scoop on what's new and still the same in the hunting regulations. There have been changes in West Tennessee that sparked questions. We will address CWD concerns and clarify questions about the velvet season. Tune in to help you better prepare for the season ahead!

Tune in to learn about the 2024 Conservation Raffle, the most successful conservation raffle in the nation! This incredible effort supports Tennessee's conservation initiatives, with prize packages that keep getting better. Get your tickets at www.WildlifeRaffle.com—$20 for 1 ticket, $50 for 3 tickets, $100 for 10 tickets. The raffle closes on September 15th, with the drawing on September 17th. Winners will be announced at the September Tennessee Fish and Wildlife Commission meeting, where the first name drawn gets their pick of all prizes, and the rest follow in order. Every ticket supports conservation efforts in Tennessee. Don't miss out on the excitement and the chance to win amazing prizes while helping our state's wildlife! #tnwildlife #gooutdoorstennessee #tnwildcast

Join us today as we dive into the Tennessee Wildlife Officers Training Academy! We're thrilled to have honor graduates Nathan Wilhite and Taylor Winchell from Class 005 with us today. The journey starts in the classroom, learning laws and procedures, before moving to defensive tactics, emergency vehicle operation on both land and water, and more. The Academy prepares you for the multifaceted role of a wildlife officer, where no two days are the same. It's a demanding process that builds camaraderie, leadership, and resilience. These graduates are equipped for success with intensive training and a mindset to push through challenges. Tune in to hear their stories and experiences! #tnwildlife #gooutdoorstennessee #tnwildcast

The new combo fishing, hunting and trapping guide is now online! You can soon pick up a hard copy in stores or keep an eye out for one in the mail if you are a Sportsman or Lifetime Sportsman License holder. On this episode of Tennessee WildCast, we will chat with the new Assistant Chief of Fisheries, Travis Scott. He will update us on all things fishing. We will also cover some hot topics for the upcoming hunting season. Don't miss it! #tnwildlife #gooutdoorstennessee #tnwildcast

Join us as we dive into the world of the Future Farmers of America (FFA) and its alignment with conservation efforts. We explore the vast opportunities FFA provides in animal science, plant science, and environmental science, helping students build successful careers. Hear from dedicated teachers like Lexi, who share the rewarding experience of guiding students towards their futures, and passionate FFA members like Aiden, who are making tangible impacts in fish habitat restoration. Discover how FFA's focus on students inspires the next generation of conservation leaders. #tnwildlife #gooutdoorstennessee #tnwildcast

We may sound like a broken record around here, but boating accidents still happen and many could be avoided by following a few safety precautions. Today, Boating Education Coordinator Betsy Woods and Boating Officer Miranda Garner join us to talk about safety and tips for this boating season. Learn more about boating in Tennessee at tnwildlife.org. #tnwildlife #gooutdoorstennessee #tnwildcast

Join us on the scenic banks of Chickamauga Reservoir at Booker T. Washington State Park for a special episode with The Conservation Kid, Cash Daniels. Discover how his passion for nature and wildlife led to the creation of 160 PVC fishing line collection tubes across nine state parks, removing 30,000 miles of fishing line. Learn how these tubes not only prevent pollution but also create new habitats for fish, showcasing a unique way to turn harmful waste into beneficial resources for aquatic life. #tnwildlife #gooutdoorstennessee #tnwildcast

Bobby Wilson, a respected figure in fisheries management, joins us this week to reflect on a distinguished career dedicated to preserving and enhancing Tennessee's natural resources. His impact on fisheries management was recognized with the establishment of "Bobby Wilson Free Fishing Day," a testament to his legacy and contributions. Don't miss all the fun on June 8th this year with events across the state! Bobby enjoys quality time with his grandchildren in retirement and fishing Tennessee waters. He also works with the Bill Dance Signature Lakes project, continuing his lifelong commitment to enriching the outdoor experiences of future generations. #tnwildlife #gooutdoorstennessee #tnwildcast

Fisheries Reservoir Manager, Mike Jolley, dives into the depths of Watts Bar, a sprawling 39,000-acre aquatic treasure, renowned for its striped bass stocking since 1964 and growing Florida bass and walleye fisheries. Discover the reservoir's diverse habitats, successful stocking programs, and its rise as a year-round angling destination attracting fishermen from across the nation. Join us as we uncover the secrets and success stories of this beloved fishing paradise. #tnwildlife #gooutdoorstennessee #tnwildcast

Wildlife Survey Manager, Lindsay Shaw, joins us again this week to enlighten us about rats in Tennessee. You never know where your career will take you! Lindsay's passion for deer and elk led her to a career filled with studying spotted skunk and brown rat populations. Our biologists care for and protect all critters in Tennessee, not only game animals.

Larry Richardson's journey of conservation and creativity has left a mark on many throughout his professional career. Discover the story behind the brushstrokes as we delve into the world of this wildlife artist. Join us as we explore Larry's exciting days in wildlife, his love for landscapes, and the inspiration found in nature's beauty. This is the tale of a career embraced, passions pursued, and Larry's art that speaks volumes. #tnwildlife #gooutdoorstennessee #tnwildcast

This week we are back at the Fiery Gizzard Sportsman Club joined by American Treeing Feist Association (ATFA) Vice President, Marty Brown and Board Member Loren Slatton. We also welcome ATFA member Nick Gipson as a guest co-host. We will learn how this organization got its start, what the hunts are all about and the love of training dogs.

The Tennessee Fish and Wildlife Commission has announced the hunting seasons for 2024-25. This week on Tennessee WildCast, we'll be speaking with Joe Benedict, Chief of Wildlife and Forestry, and Mark McBride, Assistant Chief. They will guide us through the updates and changes to the hunting seasons. Additionally, we'll briefly discuss presentations on East Tennessee tailwaters and Law Enforcement efforts. #tnwildlife #gooutdoorstennessee #tnwildcast

This week, we're back at the Fiery Gizzard Sportsman Club, engaging in a lively chat with Jimmy Williams and John Butner. Join us as we delve into the extensive community contributions of this club and uncover the history behind its formation. Don't miss out on this fun conversation!

This week, join us as we delve into Nick and Deanna Gipson's journey, exploring their passion for the outdoors and deep love for squirrel dogs. Despite being relatively new to the sport, it has already become an integral part of their lives, filled with highs and lows. Don't miss this heartwarming episode; be sure to share it with your friends! #tnwildlife #gooutdoorstennessee #tnwildcast

We continue to look back over 75 years of wildlife conservation as we visit with Ed Penrod, retired TWRA Wildlife Biologist. From restoring deer and turkey to passing on the tradition of hunting and fishing we will cover it all. Along with Mr. Penrod, we welcome Keith Seagraves and Johnny Allred to share stories from growing up with Ed and learning from him. #tnwildlife #gooutdoorstennessee #tnwildcast

This week, we're excited to have Director Jason Maxedon and past Director Ed Carter join us for a trip down memory lane. Get ready for captivating stories from the early days of Law Enforcement, Wildlife and Fisheries Management, Forestry, and Outreach and Communications. It's surprising how our mission and goals today closely mirror those from 75 years ago. Don't miss this fun conversation! #tnwildlife #gooutdoorstennessee #tnwildcast

This week, we are excited to have Dr. Danny Bryan joining us to delve into the world of ticks. Prepare to be amazed by some captivating facts that Dr. Bryan has in store for you. Additionally, you'll gain insight into the personal experiences of both Dr. Bryan and Don King regarding tick bites. Be sure not to miss this episode! #tnwildlife #gooutdoorstennessee #tnwildcast

Join us this week as Jason Henegar, the new Chief of Fisheries, discusses the exciting initiatives underway in the Fisheries Division to support Tennessee's sportsmen. Learn about the great work being done on our waters and Jason's enthusiasm for his new role. Don't miss this episode! Remember to subscribe, like, and follow us on all our social platforms to stay updated. #tnwildlife #gooutdoorstennessee #tnwildcast

We are back at Cumberland University this week talking with former Professor of Biology Dr. Danny Bryan.  Many people are afraid of snakes.  Believe it or not, Dr. Bryan is looking for them!  Join us as we learn about his study of snakes, particularly the Timber Rattlesnake.  He will share how he survived a bite but still enjoys working with these beautiful creatures and sharing his passion for the snakes in Tennessee. #tnwildlife #gooutdoorstennessee #tnwildcast

The 2024 elk hunt quota draw application period Is closing soon. Now is the time to get your name in the hat for this year's hunt. This hunt is an amazing opportunity for young sportsmen and women. Join us this week as we chat with Sergeant Dustin Buttram. He was lucky enough to help a young lady successfully harvest her first elk last year and wants to encourage everyone to apply. This is a once-in-a-lifetime hunt. Apply today!

Tyler Deaver joins us this week to talk hunting and fishing and play a few songs! Since his last visit, Tyler and his wife had a son, and they are having a blast sharing the outdoors with him. We'll hear about a successful saddle hunt from Deaver's hometown hunting spot in Wisconsin and how he is prepping for a hunt out west. We will throw in a little fishing too! Don't miss it!

Whether you are a Tennessee native or new to the state, the success of Chickamauga Reservoir is no secret.  “Chick” has it all, no matter what fish you're chasing.   Join us this week as Region III Reservoir Manager, Mike Jolley, updates us on all things Chickamauga.  Don't miss it! Watch at https://youtu.be/9KuliFitS3s. #tnwildlife #gooutdoorstennessee #tnwildcast

Are you looking for a great spot in East Tennessee to enjoy birdwatching, chase small game or hunt big deer? Yuchi Refuge might be the place you've been looking for.  Join us as we visit with Yuchi Manager, Brian Letner and Technician, Scott Shelby to explore all this property offers. Don't miss this episode! #tnwildlife #gooutdoorstennessee #tnwildcast

Wildlife Survey Manager Lindsay Shaw joins us to discuss a stinky but significant topic this week. You will be floored by the acrobatics involved and other interesting facts will surprise you when we learn about the Spotted Skunk.

If you are looking for a multi-use wildlife management area, look no further.  Prentice Cooper is blessed with great hunting, wildlife viewing, hiking, biking, and rock climbing.  Join us on a visit to the property as we talk with Property Manager Marty Griffith and Technician Patrick Bowker to learn what all is offered at Prentice Cooper.

John Dalton with Creek Fishing Adventures joins us this week to kick off the 2024 WildCast season. We will discuss winter fishing tips, recap some 2023 adventures, and hear stories from John's five-day kayak trip across Tennessee.

Join us this week as we gather around to hear the story of Bjon Pankratz first bow kill and possible record non-typical buck taken in Middle Tennessee.  Bjon, along with his hunting buddies Branden and Kevin, stop by the studio to share how the hunt went down and reveal why they think it might be one for the record books. You don't want to miss this one. #tnwildlife #gooutdoorstennessee #tnwildcast

When you think of walleye fishing, is Tennessee your first thought? Did you know Tennessee holds the world record? Join us this week as we chat with Military Veteran and walleye fisherman, Steven Paul. We will cover it all from walleye and crappie fishing to deer and duck hunting. Don't miss this episode of Tennessee WildCast! #tnwildlife #gooutdoorstennessee #tnwildcast

We are back at John Sevier Hunter Education Center this week to learn about what this facility offers. Range Manager Chad Gann will run down the long list of opportunities available from pistols, rifles, shotguns, and more. Chad will also share a few hunting stories and his passion for hunting, fishing, and shooting sports. Don't miss it! #tnwildlife #gooutdoorstennessee #tnwildcast

T. Scott Jones may be a sharp dress attorney from Knoxville, but he is also a hard-core hunter!  Join us this week as we dive into a few of his adventures.  From Tennessee to Alaska, Scott has been blessed with some very cool hunting adventures.  Don't miss it.  #tnwildlife #gooutdoorstennessee #tnwildcast

The NEW R3 Coordinator, Matt Clarey, and Hunter Ed Administrator, Randy Husky, join Tennessee WildCast this week to share an update on some of the happening in the world of Recruitment, Retention and Reactivation. These guys have been hard at work finding ways to improve hunting and fishing classes, make our ranges more accessible and provide opportunities to get outdoors to learn the sports of hunting, fishing and recreational shooting. This show is “on target”, don't miss it! #tnwildlife #gooutdoorstennessee #tnwildcast

Crafting the ultimate outdoor experience is Rick Taylor's cup of tea. Rick is a lifetime outdoorsman and currently works for BPI Outdoors as their Social Media Strategist. In this episode, he shares his passion for hunting, guiding and just being outdoors. He has had the opportunity to guide elk hunts in Tennessee, pass his love of hunting to his kids, and help his dad harvest his first buck later in life. This is a must-watch if you love hunting. Don't miss it! #tnwildlife #gooutdoorstennessee #tnwildcast

We welcome Jeb Beasley this week as he shares an update on the Tennessee Wildlife Federation's Hunting and Fishing Academy. The  Academy provides hands-on instruction in the art of being an outdoorsman for potential hunters and anglers of all ages. No matter your skill level, Hunting and Fishing Academy's goal is to get you outside with confidence. The TWRA is a key partner in the success of this program.  We are excited to have Jeb on this week as he lets us know the types of classes offered, how to get signed up and even shares a few success stories from past classes.  Don't miss it! #tnwildlife #gooutdoorstennessee #tnwildcast

Fun stories from the adventures of retired TWRA Officer and Biologist, Pete Wyatt, are on tap for this week's WildCast. His years of exploring and working in the great outdoors has given Pete books full of tales. We don't know if they're all true, but they happened to him!  Don't miss this fun conversation.   If you enjoy these stories, you can find Pete's books at https://a.co/d/aerSW14. #wildlifetales #wildlifeofficer #tnwildlife #gooutdoorstennessee #tnwildcast

This week, we're diving into the exciting world of precision ag tech with Jacob Taylor from Quail Forever and Farmer Jeremy Fowler. Get ready to discover how cutting-edge tech is turbocharging farms! Precision ag isn't just about farming; it's like a farm superhero, helping us boost yields and save the planet. Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever are here to guide farmers with their farm data. They're like the GPS for your farm's success! We're talking about superhero changes that help wildlife habitat, soil health, water quality, and improving sustainability.

When country music meets the great outdoors, you get an unforgettable experience with Tennessee's own Chris Hennessee! Join us for an exclusive chat as Chris takes us on a journey through the wild landscapes of Tennessee, sharing his passion for hunting, fishing, and songwriting. We'll delve into his world of writing songs inspired by hunting, fishing, and the beauty of small town Decatur TN. Get ready for a fun-filled conversation that will leave you craving for more adventure!

We have a lot of things to be proud of in Tennessee and our litter problem is not one of them. Join us this week as we hear from Highway Beautification Outreach Coordinator, Brittany Morris. She will share some details about the #NobodyTrashesTennessee campaign and how we can #KeepTennesseeBeautiful! Learn more at www.nobodytrashestennessee.com. #tnwildlife #tnwildcast #gooutdoorstennessee