Smoky Mountain Vacation

Smoky Mountains Hunting

You will find lots of hunters, whether they are after Bear, Deer, Wild Turkey or even Elk - and they all have one thing in common. Namely, to find that isolated hunting ground away from people, and out in the wilds. A true hunter has an independent spirit, and they’re lovers of elbow room, and a good trophy to take home.

Now understand, that I’m not for any hunter or person that goes out to eliminate any animal to extiction, just so they can brag about killing, and that’s their goal. I’m glad the Park Ranger Service is doing things to stop and punish those types of unnatural hunters. Instead, hunting is one of the greatest sports, and I’m proud to be called a hunter, and I like to wear the brand with pride. I love animals too, and love to observe them.

There’s folks who fight against hunters, and I understand your love for animals, but here’s a fact you may not know. Animals must have a balance of numbers or they’ll end up with disease, because if there too many of any one kind, there’s some of them that will starve for lack of enough food. Over balance always brings disease. So it’s actually healthy for animals to have a certain number, but not be over populated.

In the Appalachian Mountains, Tennessee’s Southeastern National Forest of Cherokee, and Nantahala National Forest of Southwestern North Carolina a hunting guide service is available if you want it. You can hunt Turkey, White Tail Deer, Grouse, Wild Boar, Black Bear, Feral Hogs,even Coyote

You can call this number- 877/233/3588 or 423-261-2747 for a guide.

Bear Hunting- At first break of daylight they start, and I advise you to eat a breakfast that will stick to your ribs, and tie a sack lunch around your neck - you’ll need it. It is recommended to wear hightop, waterproof boots made for rugged walking or hunting, because the terrain is rough and mountains with thick woods some places. Leather boots well broke in will work best, and you need to be in good physical condition.

I also feel a camera would be a real asset, but carry it in a protective, lined waterproof pouch easy to get to but firm to stay put, and of course you’ll need water. Water is heavy, but consider that you’ll be drinking it, so it’ll get lighter as the day goes, and in warm, hiking conditions that a Bear hunt creates, you’ll thank yourself a million times for an efficient amount. For me I’d take 4/20 oz. containers, balanced in a special holder on my belt. It is your decision though.

Dogs, especially Hounds, that are well trained are taken, and it certainly gives a lift to the hunt, as you’ll find out if this is your first Bear hunt. There are other ways though, so if you have a favorite way, it will be considered. The guide will also carry a gun as a backup, if you need his help. Usually older Bear stands his ground with dogs, but younger ones may climb a tree.

Your Allowed Weapons- Bow and Arrow/Shotguns/Rifles/Muzzleloaders/and Handguns are allowed, and it is suggested you at least use 180 grain or higher. Usually shots are very close range and you won’t need ascope. There are a few restrictions on handgun size. Hunting over bait is illegal both in Tn. and NC.

You will be given the rules and regulations and they’ll be discussed at guides starting area.T he hunting is strictly on public, National Forest Game Lands with no fences and you’ll have to help dressing and getting kill out to transport area, but no guarantee is made that you’ll bag a kill.

Combo will be offered if you’d like it- You can combine in Tennessee on private land, any feral hog hunt with any open season game, such as Coyote, small game, wild turkey, or white tail Deer. At certain season times, also Boar, Deer, and Bear. You can hunt both wild boar and Bear in open season in NC and Tn.