TN annual free hunting day to be held this Saturday

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — Tennesseans will able to hunt without a license on Saturday, Aug. 22, 2026.

Free Hunting Day is held the fourth Saturday in August by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) in hopes of increasing interest in hunting.

On Free Hunting Day, state resident hunters are exempt from hunting licenses. Many of the wildlife management areas are open to hunters seeking public access. Hunters are required to ask for permission to access private lands.

Saturday is also the opening of squirrel hunting season, which the TWRA described as “one of Tennessee’s oldest and favorite traditions.”

“The day serves as an excellent opportunity for people to experience the enjoyment of the sport. The TWRA encourages regular hunters to introduce friends and family members (young and old) to the outdoor sport. It also provides an excellent opportunity for individuals who have been away from hunting to reconnect with the sport.”A hunter’s bag limit is 10 squirrels a day from the opening day of squirrel season through March 15, 2027.