As a lifelong resident and avid hunter in Tennessee, I am deeply concerned about the future of deer hunting in our great state. I want my children and future grandchildren to have the opportunity to hunt large, world-class bucks without having to leave Tennessee. Unfortunately, this dream is under threat due to current hunting practices.

Currently, there are no restrictions on the number of points a buck must have before it can be legally harvested. This means that young bucks with potential for growth are often killed before they can reach their full potential. We already receive plenty of doe tags for meat; there's no need to kill a spike just to fill a tag.

To ensure sustainable deer populations and promote trophy hunting opportunities, we propose implementing minimum antler point restrictions on harvested bucks. By requiring each buck taken to have at least 3-4 points per side, we allow younger deer time to grow into larger specimens.

According to the Quality Deer Management Association (QDMA), states that have implemented similar restrictions have seen an increase in the average age and size of harvested bucks. In fact, Pennsylvania saw an increase from 1.5-year-old bucks making up 80% of harvests pre-regulation change (2000) down to only 30% post-regulation change (2015).

By signing this petition you will help us urge Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) officials towards implementing these changes which will not only benefit hunters but also contribute positively towards maintaining healthy deer populations across our state.

Please sign this petition today and help us secure a brighter future for deer hunting in Tennessee!