Context. Recent declines in small game hunting participation are concerning because of the resulting decline in conservation funding generated from hunting. Combatting hunting participation declines requires understanding what impacts hunters’ satisfaction. Literature on hunter satisfaction has primarily focused on big game hunters, elements of which may not apply to small game hunters.

Aims. The objective of this study was to assess the impact of various harvest and non-harvest factors on Tennessee small game hunters’ satisfaction.

Methods. After the 2019–2020 small game hunting season ended, a sample of 15 115 Tennessee hunters and trappers was asked to participate in a mix-mode questionnaire related to their expectations, harvest, motivations, constraints, and satisfaction.

Key results. In total, 3994 individuals responded to the questionnaire and 1440 reported they participated in the 2019–2020 hunting and trapping season, 634 of which hunted small game. A path analysis showed that small game hunters’ seasonal satisfaction was influenced by expectations, appreciative motivations, structural and interpersonal constraints, satisfaction with the number of game animals seen and harvested, use of public land, and harvest success.

Conclusions. Various activity-related factors significantly impact small game hunters’ seasonal satisfaction.

Implications. These findings shed light on the various factors that influence small game hunters’ seasonal satisfaction and could help wildlife agencies develop programming to help retain current small game hunters. To improve small game hunters’ seasonal satisfaction, we suggest agencies focus on addressing structural constraints, fostering realistic expectations, and providing opportunities to fulfil appreciative motivations.