#495 Straight‑Wall, Bait Permits & More: Your Guide to This Year’s Big Changes

This week on Tennessee WildCast, hosts Jason and Don welcome Dr. Dan Grove of UT’s School of Natural Resources and Dr. Adam Edge, TWRA’s Deer Program Coordinator, for a deep dive into everything hunters need to know before deer season kicks off. With the new Hunting & Fishing Guide now available, the team breaks down what’s changed, what’s new, and what hunters should expect across Tennessee this fall.The episode highlights the updated deer season dates, the introduction of the straight‑wall cartridge opportunity during the muzzleloader season, and important updates within the CWD Management Zone. The crew will also unpack the newly created Deer Bait Privilege Permit—explaining who needs it, where it applies, and how to use it responsibly to protect wildlife and minimize disease risks.Listeners also get clarity on feeder types, baiting best practices, and how wildlife health factors—from chronic wasting disease to hemorrhagic disease—are influencing management decisions statewide. The team shares encouraging news, noting strong fawn recruitment, improved deer body conditions, and a promising outlook for deer activity thanks to last year’s exceptional mast crop.The episode closes out with a look at a new recovery tool available to hunters: drone-assisted deer and elk recovery under specific guidelines and permissions. Packed with expert insight and practical guidance, this discussion helps hunters stay informed, prepared, and excited for the season ahead. Be sure to like, subscribe, and share—and stay connected with TWRA at tnwildlife.org!