MURFREESBORO, Tenn. (WGNS) – The Tennessee Fish and Wildlife Commission unanimously approved two key wildlife proclamations and finalized new boating safety rules during its July 11 meeting at the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency’s Region II Ray Bell Building in Nashville.

Wildlife Management Area (WMA) Permit Changes

The first proclamation reinstates specific license types for Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs), public hunting areas, and refuges. Hunters will now be required to obtain appropriate permits such as the WMA Small Game Permit, WMA Big Game Permit, and WMA Non-Quota Big Game Permit. When applicable, the Reelfoot Preservation Permit must also be held in addition to the WMA permits.

A second proclamation added “Big Game” back into the name of the WMA Permit to improve clarity regarding hunting regulations.

Boating Safety Exam Rule Finalized

The Commission also made permanent a rule removing the requirement for boating safety exams to be proctored. This change aligns with a recently passed state law. The rule sets the fee for a Boating Safety Exam Permit at $10, with a $5 charge for replacement permits. Permits and replacements can be purchased through any licensing agent that sells hunting and fishing licenses, including TWRA Region Offices and the TWRA online portal.

Next Commission Meeting

The next meeting of the Tennessee Fish and Wildlife Commission is scheduled for August 21-22 at the Region II Ray Bell Building in Nashville.