In this episode of Tennessee WildCast, we hit the road and land at Bass Pro Shops in Sevierville for a deep dive into one of North America’s largest and most passionate hunting communities: Whitetails Unlimited. Joined by Regional Field Director Josh Assad, the crew explores the mission, growth, and future of an organization dedicated to supporting whitetail conservation, outdoor education, and youth involvement across the country—and now expanding right here in Tennessee.

Josh shares his winding journey from rural Southern California to Illinois and eventually the mountains of East Tennessee, where his love for the outdoors took root and grew into a lifelong passion for hunting, conservation, and community involvement. Listeners will hear how Whitetails Unlimited is working to establish new chapters, fund youth shooting sports, support conservation programs, and partner with TWRA to preserve the hunting tradition for generations to come.

From family‑friendly banquets and youth membership drives to big prize giveaways and local partnerships, Whitetails Unlimited is building momentum in Tennessee. Josh outlines upcoming events, the importance of investing in youth programs, and the organization’s goal to help hunters, families, and outdoor enthusiasts stay connected to the wild places they love.

Whether you’re a lifelong deer hunter or simply curious about conservation efforts shaping the future of Tennessee’s outdoors, this episode delivers insight, inspiration, and plenty of reasons to get involved. Tune in and learn how you can join the mission—and maybe win a few prizes along the way.

This week on Tennessee WildCast, host Jason Harmon and co‑host Don King welcome two special guests to spotlight a critical summer topic: staying safe on Tennessee’s waterways. With boating traffic on the rise since 2020 and more families heading outdoors, now is the perfect time to revisit the rules that keep everyone safe on our lakes and rivers.We’re joined by Aaron Rummage, Director of Legislation, Policy, and Communications with the Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission, along with TWRA’s Jon Mark—District 21 boating officer, former Boating Officer of the Year, and bilingual educator on the water. Together, they dive deep into Operation Dry Water, BUI enforcement, and the joint efforts of TWRA, ABC, MADD, THP, and local agencies to prevent tragedies on both waterways and roadways.The team covers rising boat registrations, the impact of COVID‑era alcohol consumption, and the sobering data behind alcohol‑related boating and driving incidents. They also share success stories, including reduced fatalities over the July 4th holiday and declines in statewide alcohol‑related road deaths thanks to multi‑agency collaboration. Jon Mark offers firsthand insight from the field—everything from educating non‑English‑speaking boaters to the environmental factors that intensify impairment on the water.Whether you’re a weekend boater, avid angler, or outdoor enthusiast, this episode is packed with practical reminders: wear your life jacket, designate a sober operator, and stay alert. Every incident prevented means one more family getting home safely. Tune in, subscribe, and help us spread the message of responsible recreation in Tennessee.

In this compelling episode of Tennessee WildCast, host Jason Harmon and co‑host Mime Barnes take viewers deep into the heart of Catoosa Ridge Wildlife Management Area for an inside look at the training, dedication, and grit behind Tennessee’s Game Wardens. Joined by Lieutenant Colonel Matt Majors and Major Brandon Selvog, the conversation opens with a candid discussion on boating safety and BUI refresher training before expanding into the wide-ranging skill sets that make TWRA wardens some of the most versatile law enforcement professionals in the state.

From patrol boats to backcountry trails, dive teams to honor guards, evidence recovery to search‑and‑rescue, the episode highlights just how expansive and demanding the role truly is. Brandon shares his unique background—once a “reformed poacher”—and how past mistakes now sharpen his instincts to protect Tennessee’s fish and wildlife resources with fairness and understanding. The wardens speak openly about continuous training, mental and physical resilience, evolving technology, and the unseen responsibilities like delivering death notifications, responding to critical incidents, and partnering with local agencies.

Their stories illuminate a profession defined by service, humility, and passion for Tennessee’s outdoors. Whether investigating boating collisions, tracking lost hunters, navigating tight waterways, or honoring fallen colleagues, these wardens exemplify professionalism in every aspect of their work. This episode reminds viewers that behind every safe waterway, every protected species, and every rescued citizen stands a well‑trained, deeply committed team of game wardens who love the job—and the people they serve.

Tune in, learn something new, and rediscover why Tennessee’s outdoor heritage is worth protecting.

Step back into the Smokies with this week’s episode of Tennessee WildCast as host Jason Harmon and Matt Cameron bring you a conversation all about trout fishing in the mountains of East Tennessee. Broadcasting from Bass Pro Shops, the crew welcomes special guest Wes Farragut of Smoky Mountain Guides—a lifelong Sevier County local who has spent decades exploring, fishing, and guiding in these legendary freestone streams.This episode is packed with stories from the riverbank, from childhood days tromping barefoot through the waters of Sevierville to guiding guests from around the world. Wes shares an incredible look at wild trout in the Great Smoky Mountains, the history behind rainbow, brook, and brown trout, and the unique challenges that make fishing in this temperate rainforest both humbling and unforgettable.Listeners will hear about navigating tight mountain streams, mastering the roll cast, creating custom flies, and understanding how rainfall, elevation, and water temperature shape every day on the water. You’ll also enjoy a few laughs—from “Appalachian versus Appalachian” pronunciation debates to tales of surprise wildlife encounters and even some beginner fly‑fishing confessions from Jason and Matt.Whether you’re a seasoned angler, a curious beginner, or someone who dreams about cool mountain water and the thrill of a wild trout rising, this episode will reel you in. Join us for an adventure full of knowledge, humor, and the natural beauty that makes Tennessee unforgettable. Tune in now!

This week on Tennessee WildCast, we’re coming to you from the Bass Pro Shops in Sevierville for an episode packed with East Tennessee fishing insight, hometown pride, and some incredible stories from the waters of Jefferson County. Host Jason Harmon and co‑host Matt Cameron welcome special guests Lee Rose Koza and Skylar Hamilton from Jefferson County Tourism—two lifelong anglers who turned their passion for fishing into full-time careers.

Lee Rose shares her journey from growing up in her family’s bait and tackle shop to competing in high school and college tournaments, eventually landing her role in tourism and building a successful online presence as an angling influencer. Skylar talks about his path from southwest Virginia to the Bassmaster Elite Series, guiding on Douglas and Cherokee Lakes, and stepping into operations with Jefferson County Tourism.

Together, they dive deep into what makes Jefferson County a top-tier destination for anglers—massive numbers of bass, diverse species, year-round action, and growing opportunities like the Mossy Creek urban trout project. They also discuss fishery improvements on Douglas Lake, the Bill Dance Signature Lakes initiative, and why both Douglas and Cherokee attract anglers from around the world.

From 100‑fish days on Douglas to crappie booms, walleye runs, and new access projects that bring families to the water, this episode highlights just how special this corner of Tennessee really is.

Tune in, learn something new, and start planning your own fishing adventure in Jefferson County!

This episode of Tennessee WildCast takes listeners to Crossville for a deep dive into the story of Catoosa Ridge, one of the state’s newest and most exciting wildlife management properties. Host Jason Harmon sits down with co-host Mime Barnes and TWRA Wildlife Manager Don Chance to explore how this remarkable 1,700‑acre property went from a planned neighborhood—with paved roads, fire hydrants, and miles of fencing—to a thriving conservation win for Tennessee’s wildlife and sportsmen. Don shares his personal journey into the outdoors and explains how Catoosa Ridge perfectly complements ongoing habitat work on the surrounding Catoosa WMA. From restoring fields overrun by invasive grasses to implementing prescribed fire and supporting healthy deer, turkey, and bobwhite quail populations, listeners get an inside look at the passion and dedication behind the scenes. With nearly 120,000 acres under his team’s care, Don highlights the challenges, the victories, and the tireless effort put in by TWRA staff and interns. Whether you’re a hunter, a wildlife watcher, or someone who loves hearing about conservation in action, this episode offers an inspiring look at what it takes to protect and improve Tennessee’s wild places.

This week on Tennessee WildCast, we are in the Crossville office for a unique behind‑the‑scenes look at a role many listeners rarely get to hear about: TWRA’s dispatchers. Hosts Jason Harmon and Mime Barnes visit with Lieutenant Mike Beaty and Region 3 dispatcher Lynn Lehman to explore the critical work happening on the other end of the radio. From boating accidents to wildlife calls, missing boaters to bear activity, dispatchers serve as the lifeline between the public and the officers who protect Tennessee’s outdoors.

Lynn shares his journey from county 911 work to TWRA and talks about the multitasking, communication, and steady focus required to support officers—especially during emergencies on the water or late nights in the field. Mike highlights the trust officers place in dispatchers and how essential they are in keeping responders safe and informed. The crew also breaks down common public calls, how information is managed, and why knowing when (and when not) to call can make all the difference.

From lifesaving moments to everyday support, this episode shines a light on the people behind the scenes who help keep Tennessee’s outdoors safe. Don’t miss this eye‑opening conversation!

Tune in now, follow Tennessee WildCast on your favorite podcast platform, and share this episode to help spread the word about the vital work of TWRA dispatchers.

In this powerful and heartfelt episode of Tennessee WildCast, host Jason Harmon and co‑host Matt Cameron welcome Matt’s longtime friend and fellow outdoorsman, DJ Raley, and his son, Hunter, for a conversation that is both emotional and inspiring. Filmed at Bass Pro Shops in Kodak, Tennessee, this episode tackles a difficult topic with honesty, courage, and deep gratitude for the outdoors. DJ shares his journey following his diagnosis of ALS, often known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, and opens up about how the condition has changed his life as a lifelong hunter, angler, and family man.

From early signs in 2023 through countless tests and the eventual diagnosis in 2025, DJ reflects on his battle with ALS and how it has reshaped the way he experiences the woods, the water, and the traditions passed down through generations of the Raley family. With the help of adaptive equipment, a determined spirit, and unwavering family support, DJ was able to continue hunting alongside his son and father—creating memories that mean more now than ever.

This episode, titled “Until You Can’t,” reminds us all not to take our abilities or our time outdoors for granted. DJ speaks openly about faith, family, and the beauty of God’s creation, offering encouragement to anyone facing a difficult road. It’s a touching reminder of the legacy we leave behind and the eternal hope that guides us.

Tune in, listen closely, and go enjoy the outdoors—while you can.

In this on‑location episode of Tennessee WildCast, hosts Jason Harmon and Matt Cameron join TWRA’s Captain Roy Smith and TVA’s Harrison Strickland at Bass Pro Shops in Kodak to talk about one of the most important topics in outdoor recreation: boating safety. With water levels dropping across East Tennessee and dams presenting unseen risks, this conversation digs into what every boater needs to know before getting out on the water.

Captain Smith, a 22‑year veteran and boating incident investigator, shares his firsthand experiences responding to crashes, investigating fatalities, and supporting families in the toughest moments. He discusses how complacency, low water, and a lack of awareness can turn a routine day on the lake into a dangerous situation—especially when life jackets aren’t worn.

Harrison Strickland explains TVA’s role in public safety around dams, from warning systems to outreach efforts. He reflects on the powerful educational impact of the crushed boat display used at events like the Bassmaster Classic, where countless boaters realized just how quickly conditions near dams can turn deadly.

Together, they highlight why drought conditions, hidden hazards, and outdated navigation tracks call for slower speeds, sharper situational awareness, and a renewed commitment to life‑saving habits.

Whether you're casting a line, cruising with family, or exploring new water, this episode is packed with insights that can help keep you safe. Listen, learn, and share the message—because one preventable tragedy is one too many.

Tennessee WildCast is back with another great episode, and this week we’re diving deep into the world of private lands habitat management with longtime friend of the show, Clint Borum. Co‑host Don King joins Jason Harmon as they highlight one of Tennessee’s most valuable resources—its private landowners—and the dedicated biologists who help them enhance wildlife habitat across the state.

Clint shares his family’s rich, multigenerational history with the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, dating back to his father’s service as a wildlife officer beginning in 1975. Growing up in the woods, he developed a lifelong passion for wildlife and now serves as a private lands biologist helping landowners in 26 Middle Tennessee counties transform their property for deer, turkey, quail, songbirds, and more.

In this episode, Clint breaks down how the private lands program works, the importance of partnerships with USDA and NRCS, and how federal conservation programs bring millions of dollars into Tennessee to improve soil, air, water, and wildlife. He explains how he works with everyone—from small‑acreage owners with a zero‑turn mower, to large landowners with full farm equipment—to develop management plans that fit their goals and capabilities.

Listeners will also hear success stories, learn when and how to get started with habitat projects, and discover resources available at TNWildlife.org to connect with biologists across the state.

Whether you’re managing five acres or 2,000, this episode is full of practical advice and inspiration to help you make your land better for wildlife. Tune in, share the show, and keep enjoying Tennessee’s great outdoors!

Tennessee WildCast is back with another great episode, and this week Don King steps in for host Jason Harmon, who’s out on a special assignment.  Don is joined by Region 2 Public Relations Coordinator Barry Cross, who previews an exciting new event coming up May 30: Wilderness Day in the Glade at Cedars of Lebanon State Park. Born from a simple deer‑scoring day, the event has grown into a full family‑friendly outdoor celebration. Visitors can explore TWRA exhibits, meet biologists, learn about tree stand safety, watch fly‑casting demos, talk with Tennessee State Parks staff, check out live raptors, and even see a mounted local black bear at the BearWise booth. Food trucks, giveaways, and hands‑on activities will round out the day.

Barry also highlights the importance of the Tennessee Hunting and Fishing Guidebook, the work that goes into its creation, and why it’s such a valuable resource for hunters and anglers. The conversation covers everything from TWRA’s quarterly magazine to wildlife habitat management, Free Fishing Day events, and Barry’s own journey into outdoor communications.

Whether you’re a seasoned sportsman, a new family looking to explore the outdoors, or someone curious about TWRA’s behind‑the‑scenes work, this episode offers inspiration and information for all ages. Join Don and Barry for a lively discussion, and make plans to visit Wilderness Day in the Glade on May 30 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Cedars of Lebanon State Park. Stay connected with TWRA at tnwildlife.org and follow us on social media.