Hunting and Fishing Academy
Virtual Classes
Hunting and Fishing Academy wants to help you make being a sportsman a lifelong pursuit. Whether you’re looking to learn something new or dust off old skills, our free virtual classes will get you ready for the next season. Whatever that season might be!
Hear from our outdoor staff and from other lifelong sportsmen and women about what works for them in the blind and on the boat.
New classes are being posted all the time, so check back often and become a part of our outdoors community!
How to Sign Up for Virtual Classes on GoOutdoorsTennessee.com
Step 1: Create an Account in GoOutdoorsTennessee
- Go to gooutdoorstennessee.com
- Click Licensing
- Select Enroll Now
- Insert Required Information
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Step 2: Register for Virtual Classes in GoOutdoorsTennessee
- Go to gooutdoorstennessee.com
- Click Events
- Filter Event Type for Hunting and Fishing Academy
- Select Desired Event
- Click Register for Event
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Upcoming Classes
Intro to the Shooting Sports
Tuesday, June 3, 2025
6:30–7:30 p.m. CT
Have you ever considered shooting competitively? Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just curious to learn about the shooting sports opportunities in Tennessee join us to learn about what it takes to be successful. Even if you are not a hunter, recreational shooting is a great way to have fun at the range with friends and family.
Deer Quota Hunt Applications
Tuesday, June 10, 2025
6:30–7:30 p.m. CT
Tennessee is fortunate to have an abundance of public land hunting opportunities. While some Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) follow statewide seasons and regulations, others require a special quota permit allocated through a computerized draw. Join us for our next virtual class to learn how to apply for deer quota hunts for the upcoming season.
Waterfowl Quota Hunt Applications
Tuesday, June 24, 2025
6:30–7:30 p.m. CT
Tennessee is fortunate to have an abundance of public land hunting opportunities. While some Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) follow statewide seasons and regulations, others require a special quota permit allocated through a computerized draw. Join us for our next virtual class to learn how to apply for waterfowl quota hunts for the upcoming season.
Summer Deer Scouting
Tuesday, July 15, 2025
6:30–7:30 p.m. CT
We know it’s hard to think about preparing for deer season. But, the summer is a great time to get ahead of the competition and start locating deer and the places they may be when the season rolls around. No matter when you plan to hunt, summer scouting can give you great intel on how deer use a certain area. In this virtual class, we’ll look at the things that can help you predict where deer will be once the season comes.
Public Land Scouting
Tuesday, July 22, 2025
6:30–7:30 p.m. CT
We know that finding a place to hunt is one of the biggest challenges for new hunters. In this free one hour virtual class we’ll discuss how to find public land near you and how to hunt it effectively. We will talk about different mapping applications, as well as proper public hunting etiquette. Tennessee’s public lands belong to YOU so join us for the Scouting Public Land virtual class and get outdoors more this Fall!
Introduction to Hunting
Tuesday, July 29, 2025
6:30–7:30 p.m. CT
Learning to hunt for the first time can be intimidating. How do I buy my license? Where can I hunt? What can I hunt? What gear do I need to get started? These are all common questions that we will address during the Intro to Hunting virtual class. This class is perfect for the first time hunter and will give you a great starting point to build on going into this hunting season.
Trail Cameras
Tuesday, August 5, 2025
6:30–7:30 p.m. CT
Nothing has changed the way we hunt over the last couple of decades more than the advent of trail cameras. In this free one hour virtual class we’ll discuss the many different types of cameras, the best places to hang them, and a brief summary of some of our favorite settings to use. If you are wanting to maximize your time in the woods or pinpoint the habits of giant buck this fall, this virtual class is for you.
Archery Hunting
Tuesday, August 12, 2025
6:30–7:30 p.m. CT
Deer season is just a few weeks away and it’s time to start preparing. In this virtual class the Hunting and Fishing Academy team will be discussing everything from the gear you’ll need to get started in the sport of archery, to picking the best location for a tree stand. If you are completely new to archery hunting or just want to pick up some tips to make you more successful this fall, this virtual class is for you.
Broadheads for Deer Hunting
Thursday, August 14, 2025
6:30–7:30 p.m. CT
Having your arrow tipped with the right broadhead this season can mean the difference between harvesting that buck of lifetime or going home empty handed. Join me for this one-hour virtual class where we will discuss all the different types of broadheads, factors of penetration, and which broadheads are suited best for different archery setups.
Dove Hunting
Thursday, August 21, 2025
6:30–7:30 p.m. CT
Dove hunting is a fast-paced and action-packed way to enjoy the great outdoors. Each year September 1 marks the beginning of the dove season in Tennessee. Sign up for our dove hunting virtual class to get ready for opening day! We will discuss where to find a place to hunt, the gear you will need, and much more.
Squirrel Hunting
Tuesday, August 26, 2025
6:30–7:30 p.m. CT
Squirrel hunting is widely known as a fun and exciting way to introduce new hunters to the outdoors. Here in Tennessee, squirrels are as plentiful as the opportunities to hunt them. Join us as we discuss how to hunt squirrels and what to look for when planning your next hunt.
WMA Highlight
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
6:30–7:30 p.m. CT
Wildlife Management Areas are an incredibly valuable public resource. Join us for our next virtual class where we take a deep dive into one of these “WMAs”. We will sit down with the Area Manager to discuss some of the management practices, unique features, and hunting opportunities that this WMA offers.
Hunting Etiquette on Public Land
Tuesday, September 9, 2025
6:30–7:30 p.m. CT
Hunting on public land for the first time can be challenging. It can be intimidating to go to a new place, but it is important to know that public land belongs to us all. So, how do we share the resource appropriately? How do we act when we encounter fellow hunters in the woods? What should we expect from these encounters and how can we plan to work around them? These are the types of questions we plan to address in this virtual class. We hope to see you there!
Sandhill Crane Hunting
Thursday, September 18, 2025
6:30–7:30 p.m. CT
Sandhill cranes will soon begin their annual migration towards Tennessee and with that comes hopeful hunters eager for their chance to hunt these incredibly unique birds. To hunt sandhill cranes in Tennessee hunters must apply through the quota hunt system and be successfully drawn. During this class we will explain the quota application process, in addition to the history of crane hunting in Tennessee and the strategies used when hunting season arrives.
Introduction to Hunting
Tuesday, September 30, 2025
6:30–7:30 p.m. CT
Learning to hunt for the first time can be intimidating. How do I buy my license? Where can I hunt? What can I hunt? What gear do I need to get started? These are all common questions that we will address during the Intro to Hunting virtual class. This class is perfect for the first time hunter and will give you a great starting point to build on going into this hunting season.
Introduction to Deer Hunting
Tuesday, October 7, 2025
6:30–7:30 p.m. CT
Join us for our next virtual class where we will step into the world of deer hunting! Tennessee has abundant white tail populations, long hunting seasons, and thousands of acres of public land hunting opportunities. During this class we will highlight what new hunters need to know before stepping into the woods this season. From season dates to bag limits this class will give new hunters a strong foundation to build upon for years to come.
Big Game Recovery
Tuesday, October 14, 2025
6:30–7:30 p.m. CT
You’ve been hunting hard and finally get a shot at the deer you’ve been after, now what? What you do next can mean the difference between celebrating the harvest with a venison steak or never retrieving your deer. Join us for this free one hour virtual class where we will discuss the many scenarios that a hunter can face after taking a shot. We will talk about the wait times from the shot until recovery begins, identifying spoor and what it means, blood trailing tips, and blood trailing dogs. Join us for the Big Game Recovery virtual class and ensure that your quarry will be found at the end of the blood trail this fall.
Field Dressing and Processing Deer
Tuesday, October 21, 2025
6:30–7:30 p.m. CT
Learning to field dress and process your harvest is a crucial piece of understanding that all hunters must carry. This is oftentimes the most intimidating part of learning to hunt. We have tried to simplify the process by outlining what to expect in this virtual class. We will discuss the importance of field dressing, a step-by-step guide on how to efficiently dress your game, what to do with different cuts of meat, and what gear you will need to field dress and process your deer.
Introduction to Hunting Firearms
Tuesday, October 28, 2025
6:30–7:30 p.m. CT
There are various ways to get into hunting, but many involve understanding firearms and their appropriate usage. In this virtual class, we will explore the firearms suitable for hunting different game types in Tennessee. Additionally, we will emphasize the importance of firearm safety in hunting practices. If you are a brand new hunter looking to purchase your first rifle or shotgun, this class will help you make a more informed decision.
Hunting with a Muzzleloader
Thursday, October 30, 2025
6:30–7:30 p.m. CT
Hunting with a muzzleloader can be an exciting way to extend your hunting opportunities. During the virtual class, we will discuss a brief history of muzzleloading rifles, the types of muzzleloaders found today, and some helpful strategies to consider when hunting with this type of rifle. This class will be beneficial to the first time muzzleloader hunter or the experienced black powder enthusiast!
Deer Hunting the Rut
Tuesday, November 4, 2025
6:30–7:30 p.m. CT
The rut is the peak of breeding season for white tail deer and this often times a hunter’s best chance to find success. The rut is never fully predictable, but knowing some basic trends can still help elevate your game. Join us for this virtual class and learn how to use the rut to your advantage this season!
Rabbit Hunting
Thursday, November 6, 2025
6:30–7:30 p.m. CT
Rabbit hunting is a cherished tradition in Tennessee, filled with the sounds of beagles, camaraderie, and fast-paced excitement. In this virtual class, we’ll explore the elements of a classic rabbit hunt. You’ll learn about the essential gear to get started, where to locate rabbits, and how our trusty four-legged companions play a key role in bringing them out.
Digital Mapping and Orienteering
Tuesday, November 18, 2025
6:30–7:30 p.m. CT
One of the biggest changes the hunting world has experienced over the last 20 years is the advent of digital mapping apps. In this virtual class, we will identify some of the major app brands and their many functions. Topics will include base map options, using waypoints and tracks, offline mapping, and identifying property boundaries. If you are new to these apps or just want to have a better understanding of the functions available, this virtual class is for you.
Introduction to Waterfowl Hunting
Tuesday, December 2, 2025
6:30–7:30 p.m. CT
Waterfowl hunting has deep roots in the state of Tennessee and our diverse landscape provides ideal habitat for migrating ducks and geese. If you would like to learn how to duck hunt this year, then consider signing up for this virtual class where we will discuss finding a place to hunt, the gear you will need to get started, common waterfowl species found in Tennessee, and some rules of etiquette every hunter should know.
Duck Decoys
Tuesday, December 9, 2025
6:30–7:30 p.m. CT
Having the right decoys and placing them correctly is the most important part of any waterfowl hunt. In this virtual class, we will discuss the different types of available decoys and how to arrange your decoy spread for the best chance of success. It doesn’t matter if you are a mobile hunter using two dozen decoys or hunting from a permanent blind with over 1,000 decoys, this class will give you the knowledge to get more ducks into range this season.
Late Season Deer Hunting
Thursday, December 11, 2025
6:30–7:30 p.m. CT
Late season deer hunting can be challenging even for experienced hunters. The pressures of a long season weigh heavy on the herd and their patterns and behavior start to change. Sign up for this virtual class and learn some helpful tips and tricks that can help you find more deer late in the season.
Hunting Dogs
Tuesday, December 16, 2025
6:30–7:30 p.m. CT
Dogs are man’s best friend. They are great companions, but when properly trained they can be a great asset when it comes to hunting. Join us for the Hunting Dogs virtual class as we discuss the many ways that dogs can aid in hunting. Topics include: breeds of hunting dogs, hunting with dogs, etiquette, applications for hunting dogs, training resources, and choosing a hunting companion.
Begin Your Outdoor Journey
Discover Tennessee’s wilderness by being in it. Live, eat, and wake up underneath the big Tennessee sky while you get to know wildlife from outdoorsmen and women with a lifetime of experience.
No previous experience necessary. We will provide all the equipment and training you’ll need for a great experience.
Hunting and Fishing Academy
Classes and events
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More from Hunting and Fishing Academy
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A Commitment to Revitalize Hunting and Fishing in Tennessee
Hunting and Fishing Academy’s goal is to recruit, reactivate, and retain hunters and anglers in Tennessee, ensuring the tradition continues.
Federation Introduces 90 Youth to Waterfowl Hunting
The Davis P. Rice Memorial Youth Waterfowl Hunt marked its 16th anniversary in northwest Tennessee, continuing its legacy of fostering a passion for waterfowl hunting among the younger generation.
Start a new tradition
Virtual Classes
Join our free live stream classes that allow anyone to learn new skills and refresh old ones from the comfort of their home.
Adult Workshops
A low-cost learning option perfect for those seeking an in-depth, tactile experience. Workshops across Tennessee provide valuable hands-on experience in various topics.
Youth Events
Holistic hunting and fishing experiences for youth ages 9-16 teach safety, species information, and include pursuits to harvest wildlife.
Become a Volunteer
Our comprehensive training course will prepare you to help with a hunting or fishing experience or host one from start to finish to pass on your experience.