Tennessee WildCast

#468 Spring Fever: Turkey Hunting Strategies You Need Now

Welcome to another exciting edition of Tennessee WildCast!  Back by popular demand, Phillip Culpepper joins us once again to share his wealth of knowledge, unforgettable stories, and expert tips that every hunter—new or seasoned—will appreciate.In this episode, Phillip dives deep into what makes turkey hunting more than just a sport. For him, it’s an obsession, a lifelong passion, and even a form of therapy. From his early days skipping school to chase gobblers, to learning hard lessons through trial and error, Phillip explains how those experiences shaped his approach to hunting and life. He also talks about the importance of introducing new people to the outdoors and why giving back to conservation is critical for the future of wildlife.We cover everything from scouting strategies—like listening on clear mornings and checking fields on rainy days—to calling techniques that keep the conversation going without spooking your bird. Phillip shares practical advice on decoys, food plots, and even how to stay comfortable during long sits in the woods. Plus, you’ll hear why patience and adaptability are key when dealing with turkeys that can change their mood in minutes!Whether you’re gearing up for spring turkey season or just love hearing stories from the field, this episode is packed with insights that will fire you up for the hunt. So grab your gear, settle in, and join us for a conversation that celebrates the wild turkey and the hunters who cherish it.Don’t miss this one—because when Phillip Culpepper talks turkey, you’re guaranteed to learn something new!

#467 Wildlife Crime Uncovered: 50+ Deer Poached & Lifetime Hunting Ban!

Ever wondered what it takes to bring down a wildlife poacher who’s been breaking the law for years? In this episode of Tennessee WildCast, we go behind the scenes with TWRA Game Wardens Colin Jones, Ethan Davis, and Hunter Daniels to uncover the details of a massive investigation that spanned multiple counties, countless hours, and led to a lifetime hunting ban.From anonymous tips to high-stakes surveillance, this story has it all: illegal spotlighting, trespassing, selling deer meat, and even a shocking discovery of over 50 deer heads hidden away. You’ll hear firsthand what it’s like to protect Tennessee’s wildlife, the sacrifices these officers make, and why public involvement is critical in stopping poachers.Plus, learn about the new HuntRegs app—a powerful tool that makes reporting violations easier than ever. Whether you’re a hunter, angler, or just passionate about conservation, this episode will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the work that keeps our outdoors thriving.👉 Tune in now and discover how teamwork, technology, and determination brought justice to Tennessee’s wild places! To purchase a license for great hunting and fishing adventures in Tennessee, visit gooutdoorstennessee.com.

#466 Wild Turkeys In Tennessee: Habitat, Conservation, & the 50th NWTF Convention

Ready to dive into the wild side of Tennessee? This episode of Tennessee WildCast is packed with passion for conservation, turkey hunting, and the incredible work of the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF). Host Jason Harmon and co-host Barry Cross visit with two special guests: Jereme Odom, former TWRA Game Warden turned NWTF Tennessee Chapter Vice President, and Derek Alkire, NWTF District Biologist.From Jeremy’s journey “hanging up the green jeans” to chasing turkeys in 49 states, to Derek’s boots-on-the-ground efforts restoring habitat across Alabama, Kentucky, and Tennessee—this conversation is all about making a difference for wildlife. Learn how NWTF dollars stay local, how partnerships multiply conservation impact, and why Tennessee ranks #4 nationally in fundraising and #1 in youth engagement (JAKES)!We’ll also preview NWTF’s 50th National Convention in Nashville—an event you don’t want to miss. Whether you’re a hunter, landowner, or just love the outdoors, this episode will inspire you to get involved, improve habitat, and join a community that cares.👉 Tune in now and discover how YOU can help create better places for turkeys, deer, pollinators, and more! To purchase a license for great hunting and fishing adventures in Tennessee, visit gooutdoorstennessee.com.

#465 Inside Hunt Club: Phillip Culpepper Shares Scouting Secrets and Hunting Stories

Get ready for an action-packed episode of Tennessee WildCast as we welcome Phillip Culpepper, host of Hunt Club. Phillip joins Jason Harmon and Don King to talk about what every hunter should be doing right now to prepare for the next deer and turkey season. From scouting tips to habitat management, Phillip shares practical advice that will help you stay ahead of the game.In this episode, Phillip takes us behind the scenes of his journey in the outdoor industry—from packing boxes at Realtree to filming hunts with legends like Michael Waddell—and how that passion led to the creation of Hunt Club with Phillip Culpepper. You’ll hear stories about growing up in Georgia, chasing turkeys since age five, and the evolution of hunting technology from VHS tapes to SD cards and digital platforms.But it’s not just about the past—Phillip dives into strategies for success today. Learn why this time of year is critical for scouting, how to use tools like OnX for marking turkey roosts and deer travel routes, and why habitat diversity matters for nesting turkeys. He also shares insights on reading rubs and scrapes, planning stand access, and avoiding common mistakes like ignoring thermals.Plus, Phillip reminds us what hunting is really about—family, friends, and the stories that come from time spent in the woods. From Mercer’s first Illinois buck to high-fives at hunting camp, this episode is packed with wisdom and inspiration for hunters of all experience levels.Don’t miss this chance to learn from one of the best in the business. Tune in, take notes, and get ready to make your next season the best yet!Watch now on Tennessee WildCast and check out Hunt Club TV with Phillip Culpepper on YouTube and social media for more great content. To purchase a license for great hunting and fishing adventures in Tennessee, visit gooutdoorstennessee.com.

#464 Inside the Walleye Boom: Fast Growth, Big Bites & Hatchery Heroes

We couldn't leave you hanging after last week—so we're back with even more walleye wisdom from Mike Jolly, TWRA's veteran Region 3 Reservoir Fisheries Manager with over 30 years on the water. Tennessee's walleye story is one of science, dedication, and incredible success.This year alone, TWRA hatcheries produced 2.9 million walleye fingerlings (up from 2.2 million last year), making walleye the #1 species raised statewide. Why? Explosive demand and booming opportunity. These fish grow fast—reaching the 16-inch keeper size (and sexual maturity) in just 2–3 years in many reservoirs. That's lightning speed for a premium game fish!We dive into the hatchery magic: collecting March–April broodstock, hand-stripping eggs and milt, incubating in tumbling jars, then raising ravenous fry in ponds (watch out—they turn piscivorous quick, aka the polite term for "cannibalistic"). The result? Thriving populations that fill their own niche without displacing other species.Anglers are loving it. Over 16,000 targeted walleye trips recorded in recent creel surveys (a conservative estimate), plus thousands of hours on waters like Watts Bar. The excitement is real—big fights, predictable patterns, excellent table fare, and year-round tactics from spring spawning runs to summer trolling with shad-imitating crankbaits, downriggers, jig-and-minnow drifts, and even night fishing under lights.A major telemetry study on Watts Bar (nearly 40,000 acres) is already revealing habitat preferences, spawning fidelity, and movement patterns—data that will sharpen future stocking for maximum success. Tagged fish (bright orange dorsal loop tags) are out there—catch one, call the number, and help build a better fishery.From tailwater cool zones to rocky points, walleye deliver the full package: patternable like a deer hunt, delicious on the plate, and backed by science-based management. Check regulations and stocking reports at TNWildlife.org.Ready to chase the next bite? Grab your gear—Tennessee's walleye boom is calling. Tight lines, and thanks for tuning into WildCast! To purchase a license for great hunting and fishing adventures in Tennessee, visit gooutdoorstennessee.com.