ONEIDA, Tenn. — While most big game hunting seasons in Tennessee have closed for the 2014-2015 season, one remains open.
The Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area is the only spot in Tennessee where feral boar can be hunted during the months of January and February.
In the Big South Fork, wild boar can be hunted through Feb. 28. A $5 permit is required and can be purchased online.
The use of dogs and bait for hunting boar are not permitted in the Big South Fork NRRA. Regular deer hunting regulations apply — which include the requirement for hunters to wear 500 square inches of fluorescent orange (a cap and vest), use centerfire guns, muzzleloaders of at least .50 caliber or legal archery equipment, and hunt only from 30 minutes before sunrise until 30 minutes after sunset.
In addition to the $5 permit available from the National Park Service, a valid Tennessee hunting license is required. The cost is $28 for residents. Licenses can be purchased online. Licenses can also be purchased at several retailers in Scott County.
Feral boar are not listed as big game animals and harvests do not have to be reported to either the Big South Fork or the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency. However, visitors who successfully harvest a wild boar are invited to submit their photos to the Scott County Chamber of Commerce! Email info@scottcountychamber.com.
