Tennessee Wildcast

Get ready for an explosive episode of Tennessee WildCast that every deer hunter needs to hear! Join hosts Jason Harmon and Don King with special guests Dan Grove, Wildlife Veterinarian and Associate Professor at the University of Tennessee, and Tabitha Lavacot, Region 2 Species Biologist, as they dive into the critical topic of hemorrhagic disease impacting Middle Tennessee’s deer population. With deer season just around the corner, this episode is packed with must-know insights about this viral outbreak, its differences from CWD, and how it’s affecting counties like Sumner, Wilson, and Giles. Learn why dead deer are found near waterholes, how midges spread the disease, and what hunters should do if they spot a sick deer. Additionally, learn practical tips for reporting cases and discover why a hard frost could be the game-changer in stopping the outbreak. Don’t miss the exclusive scoop on the upcoming Biodiversity Summit at MTSU on October 22, featuring an exciting wildlife announcement! Whether you’re a sea

Get ready for an exciting episode of Tennessee Wildcast! Join us as we visit with Joey Woodard, Executive Director of the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Foundation, and dive into the thrilling Wildlife Conservation Raffle, closing in just one week on September 14th! With over $10 million raised in eight years, this raffle funds critical conservation efforts, like acquiring thousands of acres for wildlife habitats. Discover incredible prizes, including a $50,000 Ford vehicle voucher, a high-performance Caymas boat, an off-road camper, and a coveted Tennessee elk hunt tag. Learn how ticket purchases (starting at $20) support the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency and offer chances to win turnkey hunting and outdoor gear packages. Visit wildliferaffle.com to purchase tickets!Joey also shares updates on the soon-to-reopen Montgomery County Shooting Complex, featuring new ranges and reactive steel targets, perfect for family fun. Plus, hear about the upcoming First Time Fowlers event, introducing women to duck hunt

The Tennessee Biodiversity Summit is a landmark event set for October 22, 2025, at Middle Tennessee State University’s grand ballroom. Hosted by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA), it aims to educate the public about Tennessee’s rich biodiversity, one of the most diverse inland states, boasting over 350 fish, 400 birds, 140 mussels, 97 crayfish, 65 reptiles, 75 mammals, 85 amphibians, and 401 snail species. The summit highlights unique habitats, from East Tennessee’s mountains to West Tennessee’s bottomland hardwoods.The event targets a broad audience, from backyard birdwatchers to conservation enthusiasts, fostering collaboration among like-minded individuals and organizations. Attendees will gain actionable steps, such as contributing to citizen science via iNaturalist or volunteering as Tennessee naturalists. The TWRA’s Biodiversity Division, with just 27 staff managing 1,600 non-game species, relies on partnerships with groups like the Nature Conservancy and sponsors like Bridgestone and TVA.

In this exciting episode of Tennessee WildCast, we welcome back Keith Beam, Director of Product Innovation at GSM Outdoors, for a deep dive into archery and the innovative products from NAP (New Archery Products). Keith shares his journey in the outdoor industry where he pioneered the hub-style hunting blind that revolutionized ground blind hunting. Now with GSM Outdoors, Keith discusses NAP’s cutting-edge broadheads, like the Spitfire Titanium and Deep Bevel two-blade, designed for maximum penetration and performance across game like deer, elk, and turkey. He emphasizes the importance of fixed blades for traditional bows and mechanical broadheads for compounds, offering tips for ethical shots and effective hunting setups. Keith also highlights how ground blinds make hunting accessible and comfortable, especially for newcomers, kids, and disabled archers, fostering a love for the outdoors. With a passion for mentoring, he shares stories of guiding his wife and others to successful hunts, including his impress

This week’s episode of Tennessee WildCast dives into the thrill of dove hunting season, kicking off September 1st at noon. With special guest Jason Cruise from Mossberg and Wild & Kingdom, shares tips for a safe and fun dove hunt, from avoiding power lines to mastering shot-swing safety. They also discuss the importance of introducing youth to the outdoors without forcing it—emphasizing fun, comfort, and memorable experiences like throwing rocks in a creek or shooting old decoys. Safety takes center stage with advice on ear protection, tick prevention, and avoiding alcohol while hunting. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or introducing kids to the outdoors, this episode is packed with practical tips, heartfelt stories, and a call to preserve the sportsman’s legacy.  Learn about upcoming events like the virtual dove hunting class and youth hunts through the Hunting and Fishing Academy, all accessible at GoOutdoorsTennessee.com. The episode also covers the Wildlife Conservation Raffle at wildliferaffle.com,

In this engaging episode of Tennessee WildCast, we dive into the National Wildlife Habitat Education Program at the Clyde M. York 4-H Center in Crossville, Tennessee. Joined by Dr. Jim Byford, the program’s founder and former University of Tennessee Martin Agriculture Professor, and Dr. Craig Harper, a University of Tennessee Professor and Extension Wildlife Specialist, the show explores the origins and impact of this transformative youth initiative. Starting in 1972 to boost quail and rabbit populations on private lands, Dr. Byford leveraged 4-H to teach kids wildlife management, cleverly engaging parents who own land. By 1977, inspired by judging contests, he developed a wildlife habitat evaluation contest, which grew from a Tennessee program to a national phenomenon by 1989, involving multiple states and FFA teams. Dr. Harper, who took the reins in 1998, modernized the manual and strengthened partnerships with the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, ensuring the program’s success. The episode highlights t

Dive into the world of crappie fishing on this episode of Tennessee WildCast, where hosts Jason and Don visit with Travis Scott, Assistant Chief of Fisheries. Travis shares his journey from working at a salmon hatchery in Alaska to leading fisheries management in Tennessee, offering insights into the state’s record-breaking crappie production in 2024. With nearly 1.9 million crappie fingerlings stocked across 14 reservoirs, TWRA’s innovative mat-spawning technique has revolutionized hatchery output. This method, inspired by other states, allows precise control over spawning, boosting survival rates and ensuring healthier fish populations. Travis explains how TWRA targets reservoirs with low natural reproduction, using data from surveys to guide stocking efforts. The episode also explores the challenges of hatchery management, from weather impacts to predator control, and the tireless work of TWRA’s seven warm-water hatcheries. Anglers will love the tips on targeting crappie in spring and summer, plus a unique

Get ready for an action-packed episode of Tennessee Wildcast that’s sure to sharpen your outdoor game! This week, we welcome back the ever-enthusiastic Keith Beam from GSM Outdoors to dive deep into the world of SOG knives. Whether you’re a hunter, camper, or just love a reliable everyday carry, this episode is a must-listen. Keith, the Director of Product Innovation at GSM Outdoors, shares his passion for SOG’s high-quality knives, from their sleek designs to their rugged functionality. Learn about the Ultra XR, a featherlight 1.2-ounce knife with steel that holds an edge like no other, and the KIKU XR, perfect for skinning game. Keith also spills the beans on SOG’s legacy, started in 1986 by Spencer Frazer, and its evolution into a go-to brand for tactical, camping, and everyday use. But it’s not just about knives—Keith’s infectious energy brings wild stories to the table, from his days as a pro baseball player to setting knife-throwing world records! He shares tips on knife maintenance, the thrill of long-

Get ready for a toe-tapping, rod-casting good time on this week’s Tennessee WildCast! Hosts Jason Harmon and Don King welcome the incredibly talented Leslie Satcher, a Texas-born, Nashville-based singer-songwriter who’s penned hits for country legends like George Strait, Willie Nelson, and Martina McBride. In this lively episode, Leslie shares her journey from dreaming of country stardom in 1988 to landing a seat next to Naomi Judd at church, a divine moment that kickstarted her music career. With stories of writing chart-toppers like George Strait’s “Troubadour” in just 15 minutes and her gospel roots singing alongside her dad, Leslie’s passion for music shines through.But it’s not all about music—Leslie’s love for the outdoors takes center stage as she dives into her fishing adventures. From learning to cast a Zebco 33 with her husband to catching largemouth bass on a serene Texas lake, she proves she’s as comfortable with a fishing rod as she is with a guitar. Her hilarious “Mudcat Song,” inspired by a fri

Get ready for an exhilarating episode of Tennessee WildCast that’s packed with outdoor adventure and inspiration! This week, we’re diving headfirst into the world of R3—Recruitment, Retention, and Reactivation—with special guest Daniel Musslewhite, TWRA’s R3 Coordinator. Tune in to discover how Tennessee is igniting a passion for the outdoors, from hunting and fishing to shooting sports, and connecting people of all backgrounds to the wild beauty of the Volunteer State! We’re spotlighting the thrill of getting outside, whether you’re a seasoned outdoors enthusiast or just starting your journey. Daniel shares exciting updates on TWRA’s efforts to welcome new hunters, anglers, and outdoor lovers, with a focus on inclusivity—more women, people of color, and urban adventurers are joining the fun! Learn how programs like Becoming an Outdoors Woman (BOW), now celebrating over 25 years, empower participants with hands-on classes like “Field to Freezer” deer processing, fly fishing, kayaking, and even side-by-side AT

Dive into this action-packed Tennessee WildCast episode where we team up with David Lowrie, Tennessee’s Boating and Fishing Education Coordinator, for a dive into outdoor adventures! This episode is a must for fishing and boating enthusiasts. Lowrie, now leading both fishing outreach and boating safety, shares the essentials of staying safe on Tennessee’s waterways. If you were born after January 1, 1989, a boating safety license is non-negotiable—and even tournaments are requiring it, no matter their age. Safety first, fun always!Lowrie’s passion shines as he details TWRA’s pop-up fishing events that exploded during COVID, bringing beginners and pros to community lakes with fully stocked trailers of rods, reels, and bait. From schools to corporate teams, everyone’s invited to cast a line! He also shares how boating safety courses, now online or in-person, are easier than ever—visit TNWildlife.org for details, FAQs, and study guides. Life jackets (Coast Guard-approved only!) and kill switches are non-negotiab

On this exciting episode of Tennessee WildCast, we dive into the world of outdoor adventure, spotlighting GSM Outdoors and their renowned Cold Steel brand. Joined by Keith Beam, Director of Product Innovation at GSM, this episode explores the legacy and craftsmanship of Cold Steel knives, celebrated for their durability and versatility. Keith, a seasoned innovator with a background in archery and multiple patents, shares the fascinating story of how he became the face of Cold Steel after GSM’s acquisition. His engaging anecdotes, from receiving death threats over a promotional video to earning the nickname “Stick Man,” highlight the passionate global fanbase of Cold Steel, spanning from the U.S. to Ukraine and Russia. The episode showcases Cold Steel’s diverse knife lineup, from tactical self-defense tools like the Spartan with its robust Triad lock system to the American-made Republic, featuring a hidden Declaration of Independence etched on its tang. Keith emphasizes the brand’s commitment to authenticity,

Special guest Jason Cruise, a Tullahoma native and outdoor content creator for Mossberg and Wild and Kingdom, joins us this week and shares his journey from a childhood steeped in hunting and fishing to producing captivating outdoor media. Cruise reflects on growing up in his family’s hunting store, checking in deer as a kid, and the thrill of Polaroid bragging boards. Get the scoop on current events: the 2025 Hunting and Fishing Guide hits shelves by August 1st, the Wild Turkey Observation Survey runs through August 31st, and WMA big game quota hunt applications are open until July 23rd. Visit tnwildlife.org for details. Cruise also opens up about his tough turkey season, his new show and podcast, Wild and Kingdom , and the timeless allure of Tennessee’s outdoors. From mastering turkey calls to storytelling that inspires, this episode is packed with passion for the wild.Catch Tennessee Wildcast Saturdays at 7 a.m. on Whiskey Country Radio (105.1 & 95.9) in Tullahoma-Shelbyville or stream at whiskeycountr

Join us at Warriors Path State Park for a sizzling episode of Tennessee Wildcast! Dive into the art of Dutch oven cooking with experts John Mike, Joe Elkins, and Tony Hinkle. From crackling cornbread to pineapple upside-down cake, learn tips, tricks, and recipes to elevate your outdoor culinary game. This episode is packed with outdoor fun, fishing tales, and the warmth of cast-iron cooking! #TennesseeWildcast #DutchOvenCooking #OutdoorAdventures #tnwildcast #tnwildlife 

Join us this week at Warriors Path State Park, where we dive into a lifetime of hunting and fishing adventures with Jim Shupe, a passionate outdoorsman who shares epic stories, trophy pursuits, and the joy of passing on the hunting and fishing tradition. His love for the outdoors and dedication to inspiring others is unmatched! Don’t miss this episode!

The 2025-26 hunting seasons are almost here! Join us for a conversation with Wildlife and Forestry Chief Joe Benedict and Assistant Chief of Habitat Wally Akins as we preview the upcoming season and discuss key changes for this fall. Don’t forget to watch last week's show to get your name in the hat and win an awesome fishing prize pack from GSM Outdoors. Want to score these awesome prizes? Here’s how to enter:

Join us this week as Crispin Powley from GSM Outdoors returns with an incredible finesse bass fishing package giveaway! Packed with premium gear from Yamamoto, Roboworm, and Big Bite Baits, plus a high-performance Phenix rod, this prize pack is a must-have for any angler looking to up their game. Don’t miss your chance to win this ultimate fishing bundle! Want to score these awesome prizes? Here’s how to enter:

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure on Tennessee WildCast! This week, we join the Hyder family on a quail hunt at the stunning Bridgestone Firestone Wildlife Management Area—one of the first in a new series of quota hunts! Tom Hyder, a lifelong sportsman, shares a heartwarming moment passing down his passion for quail hunting to his son and grandson. Tune in to hear their inspiring story and discover the incredible hunting opportunities awaiting on the breathtaking Cumberland Plateau!  #TennesseeWildCast #tnwildcast #tnwildlife #QuailHunting #FamilyTradition #OutdoorAdventure #CumberlandPlateau #WildlifeManagement

Tune in to our final episode from the National Field Trial Championship at Ames Plantation! We’re thrilled to host two of the world’s top female dog handlers in field trials. Discover their journeys, remarkable achievements, and insider insights into this exciting sport.#tnwildcast #tnwildlife #TennesseeWildCast #FieldTrials #DogHandlers #NationalFieldTrialChampionship #WomenInSports #DogTraining #AmesPlantation #FieldTrialPodcast #CanineChampions #WomenInFieldTrials #SportingDogs 

Join Tennessee WildCast as we head to the 126th National Field Trial Championship at Ames Plantation in West Tennessee! Our guest, Dr. Stan Wint, shares the rich history of the trials, his experiences running dogs, judging competitions, and his current role as president. Tune in for an engaging dive into the traditions and excitement of field trials. Don’t miss this episode packed with stories and insights on Tennessee WildCast!