2026 WMA and Cherokee Quota Hunt Applications Open June 10-July 22

Tuesday, June 09, 2026 | 03:00pm

NASHVILLE --- The application period for the 2026 Wildlife Management Area (WMA) Big Game and the Cherokee Party Dog quota hunts is June 10 through July 22. Mailed applications will not be accepted. Entries must be submitted before midnight (CDT) July 22.

Hunting locations, dates, rules, and additional information can be found on the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) quota hunts webpage.

BIG GAME WMA QUOTA HUNTS:

            Hunts are available for deer, turkey and bears. An applicant may apply for 15 hunt choices out of 60 total hunt options for the Big Game WMA quota hunts. For the Youth Quota, seven choices can be made. Applicants can apply individually or as a party of up to 15 people maximum.

After all the drawings are conducted, any leftover permits will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis beginning Aug. 19 at 8 a.m. (CDT). Leftover permits will be available for purchase at gooutdoorstennesse.com, via the TWRA mobile app, at any license agent, or any TWRA regional office.

CHEROKEE BEAR PARTY HUNTS:

            There are 16 hunt choices for the Cherokee bear party dog hunts. Bear parties must have 50-75 members, and there are no priority points for these hunts. Dogs are allowed on bear hunts.

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

Customers can apply by using any one of the following methods:

  1. www.gooutdoorstennessee.com
  2. Via the TWRA mobile app
  3. At one of the TWRA regional offices
  4. At any TWRA license agent

There is no application fee for current Annual Sportsman License holders, Lifetime Sportsman License holders, or seniors possessing an Annual Senior Citizen Sportsman License. For all other applicants, there is a non-refundable $12 application handling fee, and a vendor fee is assessed for each drawing entered. When applying at a license agent, hunters must remain at the location while the application is processed to verify the information is correct on the receipt.

The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency is responsible for protecting, managing, and conserving fish and wildlife species for the benefit of Tennesseans and visitors. The Agency also maintains public safety through law enforcement and safety education on waterways.

---TWRA---