Fishing and Hunting in Tennessee: A Safety Guide
We know outdoors in Tennessee. From hiking and mountain biking to boating or gardening, there are plenty of ways you might choose to enjoy our scenic landscapes. Two of the most popular outdoor activities in our state are hunting and fishing. With over 700,000 hunting licenses issued per year—or about one for every 10 Tennesseans—we rank No. 12 nationally in number of hunting licenses per capita. A lot of folks have fond memories of fishing or hunting with family members, learning the ropes from a parent, and having a meal on the table that you put a little more work into than usual.
As do any outdoor activities, hunting and fishing require some preparation and planning to be done safely. At Farm Bureau Insurance of Tennessee, we’re committed to helping you prepare for whatever Tennessee life throws your way. So, here are some tips on how to safely enjoy the next hunting season.
Know the rules and the seasons. First off, make sure you have a current hunting and fishing license and that it’s the correct one for the kind of hunting or fishing you plan to do. Licenses are issued by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency. You should also understand what that license does and doesn’t allow you to do, especially as it relates to where, when, what, and how much you’re allowed to hunt or fish. If you’re experienced, you know that some animals can be hunted only at certain times of the year
Inspect, maintain, and handle your equipment properly. Whether you’re using rifles, fishing rods, boats, or ATVs, you should always check that your equipment is in good working order before you head out to hunt or fish. You should also know how to use your equipment properly—especially guns. Poorly maintained or mishandled hunting and fishing equipment can quickly become dangerous. Your biggest worry should be whether the fish are biting today, not whether your rod might break!
Be aware of your environment. Always check the weather before you hunt or fish. No one wants to be stranded in a tree stand in the middle of thunderstorm. And while you’re obviously out to find some wildlife, be mindful of the other creatures around you that may be dangerous to you, like snakes, bears, coyotes, and snapping turtles. Know what to do in case you encounter one. You might consider a wilderness skills class to prepare.
Wear the right gear. Always dress for the weather and for safety. If you’re hunting, be sure to incorporate some blaze orange into your outfit so that other hunters have visibility of you, especially during firearms seasons. Wear eye and ear protection. Fishing? Put on a life jacket. Even if you trust your swimming abilities, currents can surprise you—and it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Tell someone your plan. Especially if you’re going out into a remote part of the woods or your favorite secret fishing spot, make sure someone who isn’t coming on the outing knows where you’re going, what time to expect you back, and when they should start to worry if you haven’t arrived. That way, they know where to start the search if you get lost or injured.
Our final tip is this: Make sure you’re properly insured. Check that your insurance policies are up to date for any vehicles you might be using to hunt or fish. This includes things like boats and ATVs, RVs if you’re one to go on extended hunting/camping trips, and your daily vehicle.
Your local Farm Bureau Insurance of Tennessee agent can talk to you about your current policies and whether you have the tailored coverage you need for your unique needs. Contact us today!
