The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency is accepting applications for the 2025-26 Sandhill Crane and Bobwhite Quail quota hunts from September 3 to September 24. The quota system manages the number of participants for these hunts, according to the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency.
Applicants for the Sandhill Crane and Bobwhite Quail hunts can apply individually or in parties—up to five for Sandhill Crane and three for Bobwhite Quail. There is also an option to apply only to accumulate priority points for future hunts. Applications can be submitted online, via the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency mobile app, at regional offices, or through licensed agents. The Sandhill Crane hunt uses a priority-based drawing system for previous unsuccessful applicants, and party applications average member points. "Applicants will be awarded one additional priority point, after the drawing is finalized, that will be added to their existing priority point total for this specific quota hunt application."
The 2026 Bobwhite Quail quota hunt at Bridgestone Firestone WMA is scheduled for December 18, and January 8, 15, and 22, 2026. Hunters selected in the lottery can "to alter their party or bring additional hunters (not to exceed a party of three)" up to the day of the hunt. Annual and Lifetime Sportsman License holders do not pay an application fee, while others must pay $12 plus any vendor charges. A valid email is needed to receive application confirmation, and submissions can be edited before the deadline, as reported by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency.
