Tennessee Wildcast

Ever wondered what it takes to bring down a wildlife poacher who’s been breaking the law for years? In this episode of Tennessee WildCast, we go behind the scenes with TWRA Game Wardens Colin Jones, Ethan Davis, and Hunter Daniels to uncover the details of a massive investigation that spanned multiple counties, countless hours, and led to a lifetime hunting ban.From anonymous tips to high-stakes surveillance, this story has it all: illegal spotlighting, trespassing, selling deer meat, and even a shocking discovery of over 50 deer heads hidden away. You’ll hear firsthand what it’s like to protect Tennessee’s wildlife, the sacrifices these officers make, and why public involvement is critical in stopping poachers.Plus, learn about the new HuntRegs app—a powerful tool that makes reporting violations easier than ever. Whether you’re a hunter, angler, or just passionate about conservation, this episode will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the work that keeps our outdoors thriving.

Ready to dive into the wild side of Tennessee? This episode of Tennessee WildCast is packed with passion for conservation, turkey hunting, and the incredible work of the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF). Host Jason Harmon and co-host Barry Cross visit with two special guests: Jereme Odom, former TWRA Game Warden turned NWTF Tennessee Chapter Vice President, and Derek Alkire, NWTF District Biologist.From Jeremy’s journey “hanging up the green jeans” to chasing turkeys in 49 states, to Derek’s boots-on-the-ground efforts restoring habitat across Alabama, Kentucky, and Tennessee—this conversation is all about making a difference for wildlife. Learn how NWTF dollars stay local, how partnerships multiply conservation impact, and why Tennessee ranks #4 nationally in fundraising and #1 in youth engagement (JAKES)!We’ll also preview NWTF’s 50th National Convention in Nashville—an event you don’t want to miss. Whether you’re a hunter, landowner, or just love the outdoors, this episode will inspire you to get inv

Get ready for an action-packed episode of Tennessee WildCast as we welcome Phillip Culpepper, host of Hunt Club. Phillip joins Jason Harmon and Don King to talk about what every hunter should be doing right now to prepare for the next deer and turkey season. From scouting tips to habitat management, Phillip shares practical advice that will help you stay ahead of the game.In this episode, Phillip takes us behind the scenes of his journey in the outdoor industry—from packing boxes at Realtree to filming hunts with legends like Michael Waddell—and how that passion led to the creation of Hunt Club with Phillip Culpepper. You’ll hear stories about growing up in Georgia, chasing turkeys since age five, and the evolution of hunting technology from VHS tapes to SD cards and digital platforms.But it’s not just about the past—Phillip dives into strategies for success today. Learn why this time of year is critical for scouting, how to use tools like OnX for marking turkey roosts and deer travel routes, and why habitat

We couldn't leave you hanging after last week—so we're back with even more walleye wisdom from Mike Jolly, TWRA's veteran Region 3 Reservoir Fisheries Manager with over 30 years on the water. Tennessee's walleye story is one of science, dedication, and incredible success.This year alone, TWRA hatcheries produced 2.9 million walleye fingerlings (up from 2.2 million last year), making walleye the #1 species raised statewide. Why? Explosive demand and booming opportunity. These fish grow fast—reaching the 16-inch keeper size (and sexual maturity) in just 2–3 years in many reservoirs. That's lightning speed for a premium game fish!We dive into the hatchery magic: collecting March–April broodstock, hand-stripping eggs and milt, incubating in tumbling jars, then raising ravenous fry in ponds (watch out—they turn piscivorous quick, aka the polite term for "cannibalistic"). The result? Thriving populations that fill their own niche without displacing other species.Anglers are loving it. Over 16,000 targeted walleye t

Dive into the world of Tennessee's native walleye on this exciting episode of Tennessee WildCast! Host Jason Harmon and co-host Mime Barnes visit with Region 3 Reservoir Fisheries Manager Mike Jolley to explore everything about this torpedo-shaped predator—from its unique pearly eyes and impressive teeth to its fascinating river-run spawning habits.Mike shares the incredible story of Tennessee's 1960 world-record 25-pound walleye from Old Hickory, discusses why our reservoirs create ideal habitat (despite limited natural reproduction), and highlights TWRA's massive stocking efforts—nearly 3 million fingerlings this year alone! Learn how walleye are thriving in places like Watts Bar, Chickamauga, and Nickajack, reaching keepable size in just 2-3 years, boosting angler trips statewide, and drawing out-of-state visitors eager for trophy fights.Whether you're a seasoned angler or just love Tennessee's outdoors, this episode is packed with insights on why walleye fishing shines even in winter.

Dive into the fascinating world of falconry on this episode of Tennessee WildCast! Recorded live from the Region 3 office in Crossville, surrounded by impressive wildlife mounts, hosts Don King and Jason Harmon visit with Vincent Pontello, TWRA’s Region 3 Wildlife Program Manager and passionate falconer.Vincent takes us on a journey through one of the oldest hunting sports known to humanity. In Tennessee, falconers partner with majestic birds of prey like red-tailed hawks, Harris hawks, Cooper’s hawks, kestrels, and even peregrine falcons to pursue small game such as squirrels, rabbits, doves, ducks, and more.Learn about the intricate equipment, the permitting process, and the mandatory two-year apprenticeship under an experienced sponsor. Vincent even brings his trusty 14-year-old Harris hawk, “Gaylord,” into the studio—a remarkably social and seasoned hunter who’s become part of the family.From the thrill of watching a hawk soar through the woods to the deep bond formed between falconer and bird, this episo

Join us on this special episode of Tennessee WildCast as we celebrate Darrell "Bones" Bernd and his well-deserved TWRA Fisheries Division Lifetime Achievement Award. With retirement just days away on December 31, Bones stops by to reflect on more than 40 years of service with the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency.From his start in 1984 mowing grass at Bedford Lake to building early electrofishing equipment and working on the streams and reservoirs of Middle Tennessee, Bones shares stories of a career dedicated to fisheries management. He discusses the remarkable biodiversity of Tennessee waters—home to over 300 fish species, with the Duck River system among the most diverse in the world—and how the state has changed from rural to increasingly urban landscapes.Bones touches on advancements in technology, from basic generators to modern tools using DNA and data, and how these help TWRA adapt to growing challenges like development and water use. Along the way, he offers insights into the agency's

Tune in to the latest Tennessee WildCast episode for a candid, eye-opening conversation with TWRA bear experts Dan Gibbs and Janelle Musser, recorded right after the recent commission meeting.From historic bears roaming all the way to Memphis, to today’s thriving population of around 6,000, this is the real story of one of Tennessee’s greatest wildlife comeback successes – and the growing challenges that come with it.You’ll discover why bear conflicts are rising even when the population is stable, why it’s almost always about human behavior (trash, bird feeders, deer corn, chicken coops), and how simple changes like bear-resistant cans and electric fencing can prevent most issues. They also share what really happened when Gatlinburg went bear-proof, why “moving the problem bear” rarely works, and what the new deer baiting rules could mean next fall.Whether you’re seeing your first backyard bear or you’ve lived here forever, this episode is packed with practical advice for keeping bears wild and people safe. P

It’s a heartfelt farewell to Assistant Chief of Wildlife Wally Akins this week on Tennessee WildCast, as he steps into retirement after an incredible career with TWRA.Join us for a bittersweet, story-filled episode as we look back on Wally’s journey—from his first post as a wildlife officer in wide-open Hancock County, to managing the legendary Hiwassee Refuge during the early days of the Sandhill Crane comeback (from 28 birds to over 10,000!), to helping build the private lands program and helping lead the Wildlife Division.We’re talking cherished Cherokee National Forest deer camps, epic Thanksgiving pies that never lasted 24 hours, taking that first Cherokee deer at age 21 after a decade of hard hunting, running bird dogs for grouse and woodcock, and the excitement of Tennessee’s first quail quota hunt in decades on Bridgestone-Firestone WMA. Wally reminds us why small-game hunting with family and friends creates memories that last a lifetime—and why habitat on private lands remains the key to bringing qua

Imagine a snowy morning 25 years ago when 50 elk from Canada stepped onto Tennessee soil for the first time in over 150 years. Fast-forward to today: roughly 700 elk roam the mountains, and one young hunter just lived a story most of us only dream about.This special episode of Tennessee WildCast was recorded live at Thlete Outdoors with a packed house. We look back at the historic elk restoration, then bring it full circle with 15-year-old Gavin Wood and the unforgettable youth hunt that capped the 25th anniversary season.From the original release in snow-covered Royal Blue, to the very first modern elk harvest in 2009, to Gavin’s week this fall: passing multiple bulls, holding out for the one he nicknamed “Red October,” and finally connecting on a beautiful afternoon with family and friends cheering him on.It’s a celebration of conservation success, passing the tradition to the next generation, and the kind of hunt that reminds us why we do this. Real people, real emotion, and a Tennessee wildlife comeback s

Join us on Tennessee WildCast as we tour Flintville Hatchery – the state’s oldest operating trout hatchery – just days before the 2025-26 winter stocking season begins.Hatchery Manager Steven Day walks us through the raceways filled with rainbow trout (including some 16-20” trophies and golden palomino rainbows) that will soon be headed to lakes and streams across Tennessee. We see newly hatched fry, learn about the year-round work of raising 120,000–130,000 adult trout, and discover the technology and teamwork that keep the fish healthy 365 days a year.Region 3 Streams Biologist Connor Ballard explains the winter trout program: 42 stocking locations, roughly 75,000 rainbow trout released from late November through February, and three new waters added this year. He shares why most stockings happen in Middle and West Tennessee, how to read the schedule at tnwildlife.org, and tips for families wanting to fish close to home.From the hatchery building to the stocking trucks, this episode shows exactly how Tenness

Grab your orange gear and join host Jason Harmon for an unforgettable episode at the Feather to Fork event! Co-host Don King welcomes Tennessee football icons Coach Phillip Fulmer and Carl Johnson – freshman dorm rivals turned lifelong hunting buddies and SEC champions.Relive epic gridiron tales: From beating Bear Bryant’s Alabama three out of four years, to the nail-biting 14-13 Liberty Bowl upset over Arkansas, and that miraculous 95-yard fumble return against Kentucky that still has Wildcat fans fuming! Coach Fulmer shares his fresh Paul Bear Bryant Lifetime Achievement Award honor.Then pivot to the wild side: Hear about Alaska adventures, 14-hour horseback elk hunts, chukar and hungarian partridge in the Frank Church Wilderness, fishing adventures, and duck blinds in West Tennessee. These Vols legends pass the torch at Feather to Fork, mentoring York Institute students in bird hunting and conservation.From Neyland Stadium roars to sunrise fields, this is brotherhood, tradition, and the outdoors at its fin

Join host Jason Harmon and co-host Don King from the Feather to Fork event at The Sawbriar near Jamestown, Tennessee. John Bush, Director of Schools at Alvin C. York Agricultural Institute, shares his 28-year journey in education and why York is the most fulfilling chapter. Students don’t just learn—they work. From raising pheasants to operating backhoes, every CTE student spends three hours exploring hands-on booths: fly casting, drone flying, skeet, and more.Student Gabriela helped catch pheasants and set up vendors at 6:30 a.m. The pheasants are raised from day-old chicks by York Institute students on the school’s 400-acre working farm. What began as a simple pitch—“Let us supply Sawbriar’s hunt birds”—quickly grew into Feather to Fork, Tennessee’s ultimate outdoor-ag celebration.Founded in 1926 by World War I hero Sgt. Alvin C. York, the school became a state-operated special district in 1937. Today, it stands alone: the only comprehensive high school run directly by the Tennessee Department of Education

Buckle up, outdoor lovers! Hosts Jason Harmon and Don King dive knee-deep into the electrifying Feather to Fork event at The Sawbriar, where high schoolers from York Institute transform from classroom to field in Tennessee’s ultimate outdoor classroom.Meet Fred & Rhonda Moody - They’re not just raising pheasants; they’re raising the next generation of hunters, farmers, and leaders.From chicks to shotgun blasts, students earn their wings through summer farm duty, gun safety, and one-on-one mentorship with drone pilots, knife forgers, and even a certain legendary Vols coach snapping selfies and hunting with the kids.Hear Rhonda, a proud TWRA Commissioner, champion women in the woods: “It’s okay to shoot a gun!” Watch ag enrollment explode as kids beg to join the program that’s literally feather to fork.Fred’s purple “Make Agriculture Great Again” hat says it all—this is Sergeant York’s vision reborn. Coming Soon on Tennessee WildCast: The school director, a star student, and a secret celebrity episode!If yo

Get ready for an episode of Tennessee WildCast that’s buzzing with excitement! Host Jason Harmon and co-host Mime Barnes bring you the scoop on a groundbreaking conservation triumph: the reintroduction of the Red-cockaded Woodpecker (RCW) to Tennessee! Join us as we dive into this inspiring project with experts Sam King, Natural Areas Program Manager at TDEC, and David Haney, a Bird Conservation Coordinator with TWRA. Together, they unravel the story of how a project to save the rare white fringeless orchid sparked a bold mission to bring back this iconic woodpecker, absent from Tennessee since the 1980s.Discover the RCW’s unique charm—its striking white cheek patches, vibrant red crest, and fascinating clan-like family dynamics. Learn why the ancient shortleaf pines of Savage Gulf’s 16,000-acre wilderness are the perfect home for this threatened species, and how meticulous habitat restoration, prescribed burns, and artificial nest cavities are setting the stage for their return by Fall 2028. This isn’t just

Dive into the ultimate deer hunting showdown on Tennessee WildCast with host Jason Harmon, alongside returning legend Adrian Wilson and YouTube sensation Catman Outdoors! In this pulse-pounding episode, they spill game-changing strategies for tagging trophy bucks on public AND private land—perfect for the heart of fall season!From winter scouting hacks (spot trails like never before in January—no leaves, no sweat!) to mastering the rut: Hunt doe bedding areas, funnel points, and river edges where big boys cruise relentlessly. Learn thermal tricks to sneak in undetected (morning ups, evening downs—don't blow it at dawn!), plus mobile saddle hunting with Timber Ninja's lightweight carbon sticks—quiet as a whisper, set up in minutes, and move like a ninja to chase shifting patterns!Adrian reveals camera tricks (move 'em seasonally!), topo map mastery for buck beds, and why ag fields flip from corn to acorns FAST. Catman drops rut gold: Soft rattling to spark curiosity, grunt calls on cruising giants

Get ready for an electrifying episode of Tennessee WildCast with hosts Jason Harmon and Don King. This week, we’re diving into the heart of the Volunteer State’s biodiversity with an action-packed show that’s all about the State Wildlife Action Plan (SWAP). Join us as we explore Tennessee’s incredible natural diversity, from Mountain City to Memphis, with over 1,600 species under the care of our dedicated Biodiversity Division. Our guests, Josh Campbell and Chris Simpson, spill the beans on their thrilling careers—stocking fish, surveying caves, and protecting everything from bats to mussels. Learn how the SWAP, a proactive conservation blueprint since 2005, keeps Tennessee’s wildlife thriving by tackling threats and prioritizing habitats. With vibrant stories of cave-diving teams, conservation partnerships, and the upcoming Tennessee Biodiversity Summit on October 22nd at MTSU, this episode is a must-listen for nature lovers! Discover how you can get involved, from volunteering to exploring SWAP’s interactiv

Dive into an electrifying episode of Tennessee WildCast with hosts Jason Harmon and Don King as they reel in the excitement of the Tennessee Angler Recognition Program (TARP)! Joined by Travis Scott, Assistant Chief of Fisheries, they unpack the thrill of catching trophy fish across Tennessee’s diverse waters, from Dale Hollow’s world-record smallmouth bass to Chickamauga’s largemouth giants. With TARP nearing its 10,000th trophy fish submission, this episode is a celebration of Tennessee’s incredible fisheries and the anglers who make it happen. Learn how TARP recognizes 27 species, offers cool awards like certificates and Master Angler patches, and even helps biologists manage fisheries by tracking trophy catches. Discover top fishing spots, like Nickajack and Watts Bar, and get insider tips on chasing musky or winter trout as the season heats up. Travis shares exciting updates on crappie production and the 25th anniversary of sturgeon reintroduction, hinting at natural reproduction milestones. Whether you’

Get ready for an exciting episode of Tennessee WildCast with host Jason Harmon and co-host Don King, diving into the world of outdoor adventure! This week, they’re joined by Keith Beam, GSM Outdoors’ Director of Product Innovation, to spotlight the legendary Camillus Knives. With a history dating back to 1876, Camillus offers rugged, reliable blades like the Carnivore and Felix, perfect for camping, hunting, or everyday carry. Three lucky winners will snag two knives each in an epic giveaway—don’t miss your chance to win!In addition to Camillus Knives, tune in to learn why orange-handled knives are a game-changer (no more losing them in the wild!) and discover practical tips for ground blind hunting, from scent elimination to decoy placement for that perfect shot. The team shares expert advice, like brushing in your blind and facing decoys toward you to outsmart deer and turkeys. Visit gsmoutdoors.com or Smoky Mountain Knife Works in Pigeon Forge to explore Camillus and other top brands. Like, share, comment,

Dive into the ultimate fusion of grit and groove on this episode of Tennessee WildCast, where host Jason Harmon and co-host Don King welcome the unstoppable Josh Isenberg—an outdoorsman raised on squirrel hunts and shotgun shells in rural Kentucky, now a Nashville audio wizard mixing for legends like The Time Jumpers and Vince Gill. With deer season just a week away, Josh shares stories of "earning the trigger": that profound respect for the harvest, from boning knives at age six to processing every ounce of meat with your kids, turning freezer trophies into family feasts that taste like self-reliance and tradition.Feel the anticipation build as they unpack the quiet magic of the woods—discerning a deer's step from a squirrel's scamper, the early-morning breath-fogged thrill of opening day, and why the social spark of dove hunts and a fish fry outshines any solo score. Josh reveals how his dual worlds collide: the same razor-sharp listening that tames chaotic tour consoles also hones a hunte