The Tennessee Fish and Wildlife Commission (TFWC) is asking for public input on new rules that would allow the practice of deer baiting.
The Deer Baiting Privilege License, which was enacted by the Tennessee General Assembly, is only for white-tailed deer and for private and leased land. The law requires the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) to promulgate rules establishing acceptable bait, the amount of bait that may be used, and the conditions under which the license may be used. The rules take effect Aug. 1, 2026, and the license will be valid beginning with the 2026-27 hunting season. A public input period is now underway and will continue through Nov. 14, 2025. Public comment information and the complete recommendations can be accessed on the Public Notices and Comments page on TWRA’s website.