The Appalachian Adventurer: Deer Hunting Season
One thing we’ve never covered on the Appalachian Adventurer is hunting, an essential part of outdoor enjoyment for a large percentage of people in our region. Game and bird season has been open for a while and turkey season comes back around in the spring, but its deer season that usually gets folks excited - and we’re right in the middle of it.
Deer hunting season has been open since October for archery enthusiasts, but November is the month when hunting really begins to pick up. This weekend, or November 9th to be exact, is the beginning of the muzzleloader and archery period, which runs from Nov. 9-22, then the gun, muzzleloader and archery period begins on the 23rd.
There are six hunting units spread across Tennessee. The units are used to divide deer hunting season into different parts.
Our coverage area is centered in Unit 6, which includes Blount, Carter, Cocke, Greene, Hamblen, Hawkins, Jefferson, Johnson, Monroe, Polk, Sevier, Sullivan, Unicoi, and Washington counties.
Some hunting units in Tennessee allow three antlerless deer per day, but Unit 6 is one that varies. Four antlerless deer are allowed during the archery season, and two are allowed in the other three, so after this weekend, you are allowed two per day.
Remember when you’re hunting to wear protective and reflective gear, to always be sure of your target and always let someone know where and when you’ll be hunting. Make sure you’re in good health before heading out to the woods, take some first aid gear and knowledge along with you, always check your equipment and stands and always, always control your muzzle and aim. Treat every firearm as if it is loaded at all times and make sure you hunt with people who share the same respect for safety as you do.
Hunting is a traditional, respectful pastime in East Tennessee, so treat it as such and make sure you know your limits and laws - and good luck out there.