Outdoor Entertainment amidst COVID-19

For most of us, the last weeks have brought about times of uncertainty and anxiety. 

Schools across the state have closed for the time being, universities are switching to online classes until further notice, and toilet paper can’t stay on the shelves.

In these times of chaos, we are often looking for ways to take our minds off of the coronavirus. So fear not, I have compiled some of my favorite activities to keep you occupied all the while minimizing your chances of exposure to the virus in this time of mass quarantine.

The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) recently issued a statement regarding the spread of COVID-19 and encouraged outdoor recreation.

“What better way is there to practice ‘social distancing,’ as health authorities recommend, than to seize the opportunity to get outside and enjoy Tennessee’s natural resources?”

With April now here, this time of year is prime for several outdoor activities. 

Springtime fishing is in full swing as trees begin to bloom and temperatures gradually rise. The annual crappie spawn usually begins in early April when water temperatures average between 62 and 66 degrees Fahrenheit.

Crappies move to shallow water with vegetation and/or structure to make their nests during this time. During the spawn they can be caught using just about anything, but my personal favorite bait is a curly tail jig in 1/32 or 1/16 ounce weight, on an ultralight rod and reel using a 6-8 pound line. The daily creel limit for Region 1 (West Tennessee) small lakes and impoundments is 30 crappies with no size limit. 

Reelfoot Lake in nearby Obion and Lake counties has long been considered one of the best crappie fisheries in North America. In fact, the lake was one of the only commercial crappie fisheries in the country until several years ago. Besides Reelfoot Lake, TWRA also manages many family fishing lakes in West Tennessee. 

To purchase or renew your fishing license, visit https://gooutdoorstennessee.com. 

Many of these smaller-management lakes produce quality fishing close to home. Some of the TWRA-managed lakes also offer various accommodations such as jon boat rentals for $10 a day, with paddles and life jackets provided.

The Tennessee state-wide spring turkey season begins on Saturday, April 4, 2020 and will run through May 17. The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) manages several Wildlife Management Areas (WMA) across the state and there are several near Martin along the Obion River. The Obion River WMA, Three Rivers WMA, Gooch WMA, Hop-in Refuge, and Bean Switch Refuge are all within a 15 mile radius of Martin and are all open this turkey season.

These WMA’s are open to public hunting for turkey between April 11 and May 3, 2020 with a limit of 1 bearded turkey per WMA.

For more information regarding these WMA’s, or to find some place to hunt closer to where you live, visit https://www.tn.gov/twra/hunting/wildlife-management-areas.html. 

With gyms being closed across the state, hiking and biking are great ways to stay fit while being outdoors. Camping is about as good as it will get during the spring when temperatures are ideal before insects and green foilage take over the wilderness. According to the Tennessee Wildlife Federation’s website, “Tennessee is home to approximately 2.4 million acres of public land and waterways”.

Next time you find yourself bored, sitting around the house, think of planning some activities outdoors. Spring brings about some of the best weather of the year, so don’t waste it.  I encourage everyone to take advantage of all the public land near you, whether it’s a park or a National Forest; it’s there for everyone to enjoy and after all, it’s one of our greatest resources.