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Quota Hunts

What exactly is a quota hunt?

TWRA realizes that on some WMAs, the number of hunters must be limited to increase hunter satisfaction and so there will not be a major impact on wildlife. In these areas, the agency uses a quota hunt system, limiting the number of permits.

What types of quota hunts are there?

Deer, turkey, waterfowl, sandhill crane, bear party dog hunts, and elk are all available throughout the year.

How do I apply for a quota hunt?

All applications are electronically processed through GoOutdoorsTennessee.com, "TWRA On The Go” mobile app, or through any TWRA license agent. No mail-in applications are accepted.

What is “priority”?

Tennessee has a priority point system in place for several of its quota hunts. An applicant is awarded one point for each year they apply and are not drawn, i.e., WMA Big Game, Spring Turkey WMA, etc. Applicants with the highest priority are always drawn first.

Priority Facts:

  • In order to be drawn with priority, applicants must apply either alone or in a party in which all applicants have the same priority status.
    • If applicants in a party have varying priority points, the points will be averaged. If party is unsuccessful, each party member's individual priority will increase by 1 point.
  • Each applicant’s priority is individual; it is only in the drawing that an applicant’s party priority is considered. When a party is unsuccessful, each applicant’s actual current priority status will increase by one point.
  • Each point system is unique and separate for the different quota drawings.
  • When a person is drawn for a quota hunt their priority points will be reset to “0” the following year.
  • Spring Turkey WMA: No limit
  • WMA Big Game: No limit. Currently the maximum number of priority points any hunter will have going into the 2021 WMA drawing will be fourteen (14).
  • WMA Young Sportsman hunts: No limit
  • Elk hunts: no priority. An applicant successfully drawn may not reapply for 10 years.
  • No priority points are given to youths applying for Young Sportsman hunts.
  • WMA Waterfowl: No limit.

How much does it cost to apply?

Unless you are a Sportsman License holder there is a nonrefundable $12.00 fee. The only exception is WMA to which you are eligible to apply for two permits. If you enter both drawings, the cost will be $24.00, plus any fees. You must choose the number of drawings, party information, and hunt choices on one application. For additional information, visit GoOutdoorsTennessee.com.

WMA Quota Hunt Application Periods

  • Big Game: June 15 - July 27, 2022
  • Waterfowl: See Tier Designations on WMA
  • Spring Turkey: Dec. 14, 2022 - Jan. 11, 2023
  • Statewide Sandhill Crane Aug. 31-Sept. 21, 2022

Any questions regarding Quota Hunts, please call (615) 781-6621.

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