The Tennessee Wildlife Federation has been working to bring more Tennesseans into the conservation movement through an outdoor lifestyle. Over the past two years the Federation has extended its programming to include virtual classes. This year, TWF will offer 38 virtual classes that will teach the practical skills needed for hunting, fishing, and other outdoor recreation.
The Federation’s Hunting and Fishing Academy began offering virtual classes in 2020 to reach outdoor enthusiasts across the state. The pandemic necessitated the shift to virtual learning. However, the format continued to prove extremely valuable to busy individuals, who found online courses an ideal way to fit learning into their busy schedules. These classes focus on specific topics related to Tennessee resources that participants can apply to their next hunting or fishing trip.
In its second year running, attendance of the virtual classes nearly doubled, with over 2,700 participants in the 24 classes offered last year. Participants enjoyed opportunities to learn skills in an environment tailored to provide assistance they cannot get by just watching tutorial videos online.
“It’s been so great to see how engaged people are in these classes,” said Taylor Martin, associate director of the Hunting and Fishing Academy. “People need information, and they want to be able to ask questions. Our virtual classes give participants the opportunity to brush up on skills and ask questions to real people as they come up.”
The 2022-23 Virtual Series will consist of classes ranging from hunting and fishing techniques to wilderness safety and more. All classes are free, and anyone who registers for a class will receive a recording of the class afterward.
Upcoming Virtual Classes
August
Aug. 9, 6:30-7:30 p.m. – tree stand safety
Aug. 16, 6:30-7:30 p.m. – trotline and jug fishing
Aug. 23, 6:30-7:30 p.m. – dove hunting
September
Sept. 6, 6:30-7:30 p.m. – archery deer hunting
Sept. 13, 6:30-7:30 p.m. – getting started in hunting
Sept. 20, 7-8 p.m. – intro to wilderness first aid
October
Oct. 4, 6:30-7:30 p.m. – muzzleloader deer hunting
Oct. 18, 6:30-7:30 p.m. – deer aging and scoring
Oct. 25, 6:30-7:30 p.m. – deer hunting the rut
November
Nov. 1, 6:30-7:30 p.m. – waterfowl tips and techniques
Nov. 15, 6:30-7:30 p.m. – public land waterfowl hunting
Nov. 29, 6:30-7:30 p.m. – duck calling
December
Dec. 6, 6:30-7:30 p.m. – late season deer hunting
Dec. 13, 6:30-7:30 p.m. – trapping 101
Dec. 20, 6:30-7:30 p.m. – winter trout fishing
To see a full list of virtual classes and sign up, visit tnwf.org/virtual. In addition to virtual classes, Hunting and Fishing Academy also provides hands-on instruction to beginner hunters and anglers of all ages. To see upcoming experiences near you visit tnwf.org/academy.
