What are the bear hunting season dates in Tennessee?
Quick answerTennessee offers bear hunting opportunities in the fall, with a restricted hunt taking place in mid-to-late September and an archery-only season running from late September through late October. The exact dates and legal methods of take vary by the specific hunt.
For hunters looking to use a variety of weapons, Tennessee has a Restricted Bear Reserve Hunt scheduled from September 19th to September 25th, 2026. During this week-long season, hunters are permitted to use archery equipment, muzzleloaders (.36 caliber or larger), and centerfire rifles.
Following the restricted hunt, an archery-only season for still hunting opens. This season runs for a longer period, from September 26th to October 23rd, 2026, providing an excellent opportunity for bowhunters. As per regulations, hunting arrows and bolts must be equipped with sharpened broadheads.
These distinct seasons give hunters different ways to experience a Tennessee bear hunt. Whether you prefer the versatility of the restricted hunt or the challenge of an archery-only pursuit, the state's regulations are structured to provide clear opportunities in the early fall.
Planning a trip can be simplified by working with a local expert. Outfitters like Standing Rock Hunting Lodge offer guided experiences tailored to these seasons, ensuring you are hunting in the right place at the right time with the right gear.
To find and book your next adventure with a vetted Tennessee bear hunting guide, explore the available packages on GuidedHunts.io.
Bear seasons in Tennessee
Season datesBear17 seasons
| Season | Zone / Region | Method | Dates | Limits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Restricted Bear Reserve Hunt | Statewide | archery, muzzleloader, rifle | Sep 19 – Sep 25 | Season1 bear either sex |
| Bear Hunt - Archery Only (Still Hunting) | TN Bear Hunting Zone 1TN Bear Hunting Zone 2TN Bear Hunting Zone 3TN Bear Hunting Zone 4TN Bear Hunting Zone 5 | archery | Sep 26 – Oct 23 | Season1 bear either sex per year |
| Bear Hunt - Dogs Permitted | TN Bear Hunting Zone 1 | archery, muzzleloader, rifle | Oct 3 – Oct 5 | Season1 bear either sex per year |
| Bear Hunt - Dogs Permitted | TN Bear Hunting Zone 2 | archery, muzzleloader, rifle | Oct 3 – Oct 18 | Season1 bear either sex per year |
| Bear Hunt - Dogs Permitted | TN Bear Hunting Zone 3 | archery, muzzleloader, rifle | Oct 3 – Oct 4 | Season1 bear either sex per year |
| Bear Hunt - Dogs Permitted | TN Bear Hunting Zone 1 | archery, muzzleloader, rifle | Oct 10 – Oct 11 | Season1 bear either sex per year |
| Bear Hunt - Dogs Permitted | TN Bear Hunting Zone 3 | archery, muzzleloader, rifle | Oct 10 – Oct 16 | Season1 bear either sex per year |
| Young Sportsman Bear Hunt (Still Hunting) | TN Bear Hunting Zone 1TN Bear Hunting Zone 2TN Bear Hunting Zone 3TN Bear Hunting Zone 4TN Bear Hunting Zone 5 | archery, muzzleloader, rifle | Oct 31 – Nov 1 | Season1 bear either sex per year |
| Bear Hunt - Dogs Permitted | TN Bear Hunting Zone 2TN Bear Hunting Zone 3 | archery, muzzleloader, rifle | Nov 2 – Nov 6 | Season1 bear either sex per year |
| Bear Hunt - Dogs Permitted | TN Bear Hunting Zone 1 | archery, muzzleloader, rifle | Nov 9 – Nov 16 | Season1 bear either sex per year |
| Bear Hunt - Gun/Muzz/Archery (Still Hunting) | TN Bear Hunting Zone 1TN Bear Hunting Zone 2TN Bear Hunting Zone 3 | archery, muzzleloader, rifle | Nov 21 – Nov 24 | Season1 bear either sex per year |
| Bear Hunt - Dogs Permitted | TN Bear Hunting Zone 1 | archery, muzzleloader, rifle | Nov 30 – Dec 16 | Season1 bear either sex per year |
| Bear Hunt - Dogs Permitted | TN Bear Hunting Zone 2 | archery, muzzleloader, rifle | Nov 30 – Dec 15 | Season1 bear either sex per year |
| Bear Hunt - Dogs Permitted | TN Bear Hunting Zone 3 | archery, muzzleloader, rifle | Nov 30 – Dec 13 | Season1 bear either sex per year |
| Bear Hunt - Dogs Permitted | TN Bear Hunting Zone 4 | archery, muzzleloader, rifle | Dec 12 – Dec 13 | Season1 bear either sex per year |
| Bear Hunt - Gun/Muzz/Archery (Still Hunting) | TN Bear Hunting Zone 5 | archery, muzzleloader, rifle | Dec 12 – Dec 13 | Season1 bear either sex per year |
| Bear Hunt - Dogs Permitted | TN Bear Hunting Zone 3 | archery, muzzleloader, rifle | Dec 31 – Jan 3 | Season1 bear either sex per year |
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