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
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
Upcoming Classes
Archery Hunting
Thursday, August 1, 2024
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.
Introduction to Hunting
Tuesday, August 6, 2024
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.
Dove Hunting
Tuesday, August 20, 2024
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 27, 2024
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.
September Waterfowl Hunting
Tuesday, September 3, 2024
6:30–7:30 p.m. CT
Most people associate waterfowl hunting with stiff northern winds and freezing temperatures, but did you know Tennessee has a September waterfowl season for certain species? Join us for this class where we will discuss early season teal, wood duck, and goose hunting. We will help you think through some helpful strategies in knowing where to find these birds, the gear you will need, and the specific regulations that you will need to know.
Shooting Optics
Tuesday, September 10, 2024
6:30–7:30 p.m. CT
Are you ready to learn about a variety of shooting optics? During this virtual class, we will explore the features and benefits of different types of scopes, sights, and other optical tools used in shooting sports, and hunting. Gain a deeper understanding of how various optics can enhance accuracy, improve target acquisition, and optimize performance in different shooting scenarios. Whether you are a beginner looking to understand the basics or an experienced shooter wanting to expand your knowledge, this class will provide valuable insights into the world of shooting optics.
Sandhill Crane Hunting
Thursday, September 12, 2024
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.
History of Bear Hunting in Tennessee
Tuesday, September 24, 2024
6:30–7:30 p.m. CT
Black bear populations continue to grow in Tennessee, which opens the door for increased hunting opportunities. In our upcoming virtual class, we will discuss the history of bear hunting in Tennessee and some of the new regulations regarding hunting opportunities. Join us to learn more about bears in Tennessee.
Hunting Firearms
Tuesday, October 8, 2024
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.
Big Game Recovery
Tuesday, October 15, 2024
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.
Intro to Long Range Shooting
Tuesday, October 22, 2024
6:30–7:30 p.m. CT
Take the first step to becoming a long range shooter and join us for the Intro to Long Range Shooting Virtual Class. We will discuss the equipment needed to shoot rifles at a distance and tips for becoming a better marksman.
Wild Game Cooking (Deer)
Tuesday, October 29, 2024
6:30–7:30 p.m. CT
Perhaps the biggest driving force behind learning to hunt is providing a sustainable source of protein for you or your family. Learning to prepare and cook your wild game properly is an important step in fully enjoying the outdoors. During this virtual class, we will discuss tips and cooking techniques to help you prepare your harvested venison (deer). After this class, you should have a better understanding of how to handle your wild game in the kitchen and how to prepare some of our favorite recipes for you to enjoy at home.
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
Click the blue boxes to view event details.
More from Hunting and Fishing Academy
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.
Delta Waterfowl Announced as Title Sponsor for 2024 Davis P. Rice Memorial Hunt
For 14 years, Delta Waterfowl has been proudly sponsoring the Davis P. Rice Memorial Youth Waterfowl Hunt which has introduced over 1300 youth across the state to waterfowl hunting since its inception.
How Your Donation Improves Conservation
When you donate to Tennessee Wildlife Federation, you become a catalyst for change through our programs that focus on the perpetual improvement of conservation, wildlife habitat, recreation, and more all across our beautiful state.
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.