Yanahli WMA
Directions and Description
Site Directions: From I-65, the area can be accessed from either US 412 or state Hwy. 50. This is the former TVA property along the Duck River, east of Columbia. Lat-Long: 35.59058, -86.99806
The WMA is open year-round during daylight hours, with access dependent on hunting seasons. License fees may apply.
TWRA Contact Information: Region 2 Office: 1-615-781-6622, Toll-Free: 1-800-624-7406, E-mail the office, TWRA Area Manager: Tommy Edwards 1-931--840-4042
There is no checking station. It is in various tracts along the Duck River from Columbia east to the Marshall County line. You will need a map to find your way around Yanahli WMA as there are many parcels of land scattered across the area. It is tricky to navigate the area. Cedar glades and oak-hickory hardwood forests are mixed with some cropland. A good mix of edge and forest provides for diverse flora and fauna on the 12,800 acres of Yanahli WMA.
Early successional bird species are common, including Field Sparrow, Indigo Bunting, Red-winged Blackbird, and Yellow-breasted Chat. Willow Flycatcher and Blue-winged Warblers are local nesting birds uncommon elsewhere in middle Tennessee. Forest birds include Summer and Scarlet Tanager, Wood Thrush, and Red-eyed Vireo. Wild Turkey is common year-round.
Yanahli WMA is part of the TN SWAP, Duck River Highlands, and Headwaters Conservation Opportunity Area (COA)
Regulations & Dates
Special Use - Horses and other saddle and pack animals are prohibited during big game seasons.
Hooved animal riding is permitted only by individuals possessing a valid hunting and fishing license and WMA permit or a High Impact Habitat Conservation Permit. Users must ride on designated trails only.
ATVs are prohibited.
During daylight hours, all users outside of an enclosed vehicle or out of camp must wear fluorescent orange during the deer gun and muzzleloader seasons.
Possession of alcohol is prohibited, and you must ride on designated trails only.
Treestands must be marked with the hunter’s TWRA identification number. Leaving any personal property unattended for longer than 24 hours, without prior permission, may be impounded and may be disposed of according to state procedures.
Big game, Small Game, Trapping, Coyote hunting, and Dog Training are the same as statewide seasons, except as noted. Centerfire can be used outside of any big game hunt and may be used during the deer gun season.
Quail - Nov. 2, 2024 - Jan. 15, 2025.
Spring turkey Same as the statewide season. Bag limit one (1) male bearded turkey during the first 14 days of the statewide season, not to exceed two (2) for the season.
Shooting Range Open Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays Oct. - Dec. 12pm - 5pm (CST). Automatic weapons are prohibited.
Camping Open during deer and turkey seasons to any hunters who are actively hunting the WMA.