Tennessee Wildcast

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

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