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.

Join host Jason Harmon and co‑host Mime Barnes on this on‑location episode of Tennessee WildCast as they explore Catoosa Ridge Wildlife Management Area and take you inside the world of law enforcement training with the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency. Surrounded by thousands of newly added acres of prime wildlife habitat, Jason and Mime welcome Lieutenant Colonel Matt Majors and Region 3 Major Brandon Selvog to discuss the essential work that Tennessee’s game wardens carry out every day to keep our waterways safe.

This episode shines a light on the specialized training behind boating under the influence (BUI) enforcement. Matt and Brandon break down why ongoing training is crucial, how wardens refine their skills, and the real impact their work has on protecting millions of residents and visitors who enjoy Tennessee’s lakes and rivers each year. Listeners get a rare behind‑the‑scenes look at BUI refresher training, including hands‑on practice with volunteers in a controlled environment, scientifically validated field sobriety tasks adapted for the water, and the importance of recognizing impairment among boaters.

The team also discusses how BUI laws have evolved to mirror DUI laws, the challenges officers face on the water, and how TWRA’s training methods are now being shared statewide with other law enforcement agencies and academies. Real stories, expert insight, and a commitment to public safety come together in this informative and eye‑opening conversation.

Whether you're a boater, outdoor enthusiast, or someone interested in how game wardens protect Tennessee’s natural resources, this episode offers a powerful look at the dedication behind TWRA’s work. Be sure to like, subscribe, and share to help spread the word. Stay connected with TWRA at tnwildlife.org and purchase your license at GoOutdoorsTennessee.com.

Take a trip back to Tennessee with this lively new episode of Tennessee WildCast! Jason Harmon and Don King are in the studio, and they’re bringing the energy — plus a whole lot of wildlife wisdom — thanks to special guest and longtime habitat biologist Clint Borum.

Clint covers 26 counties across Middle Tennessee, and he’s spent nearly two decades helping landowners transform their properties into wildlife havens. From pollinators to turkeys to deer and beyond, Clint has seen it all — and he joins us to share practical tips, great stories, and plenty of laughs.

We kick things off with turkey talk, and Clint doesn’t disappoint. Hear how opening day turned into a family trifecta of success and why turkey season still gets everybody fired up each spring.

Then we dive into one of Tennessee’s favorite traditions — dove season! September 1 may feel far away, but now is the time to prep those fields. Clint breaks down the best warm‑season plantings, why bare dirt is absolutely key for doves, how to mix sunflowers, millet, and wheat for a top‑notch field, and how to stay on the right side of regulations. He also shares money‑saving insights on USDA cost‑share programs and how TWRA staff can help landowners plan, plant, and improve habitat year‑round.

We also cover public‑land dove opportunities, how leased fields are selected, when to check the online maps, and why patience pays off right up to opening day.

If you love Tennessee’s outdoors — hunting, habitat, wildlife, or just good conversation — this episode is packed with useful info and great stories. Like, share, and subscribe to keep WildCast rolling… and get ready for a great season ahead!

A brand‑new episode of Tennessee WildCast is on the air, and Jason and Don are back together in the studio to break down everything you need to know from the latest Tennessee Fish and Wildlife Commission meeting—plus a whole lot more!

This week, your WildCast hosts dig into the big topics shaping hunting, fishing, boating, and wildlife watching across the Volunteer State. From spring turkey season updates and record-breaking harvest numbers to new straight‑wall cartridge opportunities, bear dog training changes, and important CWD management adjustments—you’ll hear the highlights, the surprises, and the stories behind the decisions.

The guys also shine a light on some special people making a big impact in Tennessee’s outdoor world. Tune in for heartfelt recognitions honoring youth hunters, dedicated volunteers, conservation champions, and TWRA staff who’ve given decades of service to our state’s wildlife legacy.

And if you love the outdoors, there’s no better time to get outside. Spring turkey season is in full swing, the fishing is heating up, and Tennessee’s woods and waters are calling your name.

Don’t forget—you can always watch full commission meetings and WildCast episodes on our YouTube channel. Subscribe, click that bell, and never miss new content. And for our radio listeners, big thanks to WJSQ and stations from Mountain City to Memphis for keeping WildCast on the airwaves.

Hit play, settle in, and let’s take a trip through all things Tennessee outdoors! Tune in now!