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
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.
Raccoon Hunting
Tuesday, November 5, 2024
6:30–7:30 p.m. CT
Raccoon hunting is an age old tradition in Tennessee and we want to share a bit of that heritage with you. Join us for this virtual class where we will provide some insights into the world of raccoon hunting in Tennessee. Whether you are pursuing raccoons with dogs, using electronic calls, or trapping, success can be found nearly anywhere in Tennessee where woods and water are in close proximity. During this virtual class, we will discuss some of the items needed to start hunting raccoons in Tennessee.
Hunting with a Muzzleloader
Thursday, November 7, 2024
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!
Field Dressing and Processing (Deer)
Tuesday, November 19, 2024
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.
Intro to Waterfowl Hunting
Tuesday, December 3, 2024
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.
Deer Aging and Scoring
Tuesday, December 10, 2024
6:30–7:30 p.m. CT
As hunters, we all desire to see healthy and flourishing deer herds that result from sound management practices. Understanding how to properly determine the age of individuals within the deer herd is oftentimes crucial to ensuring we reach our goals as hunters and wildlife managers. Join us for our next virtual class where we will discuss techniques to determine the age of deer on the hoof as well as post-harvest. We will also discuss the process to correctly score your deer to measure antler growth.
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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Free Access to Outdoor Expertise: 2023 Virtual Classes Announced
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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.