I think that if the people of TN want it, then they will do it, but, the sportsmen would not elect commissioners; Rather everyone in TN would (sports/hunting minded or not). In the end, it would be just as politicized, if not more, like county commissioners.. It was that way before the current system, and old timers tell me that nowadays, despite problems, hunting, regs, and wildlife management are much improved compared to pre-TWRA & commission. I think we are able to accomplish more as a whole within the current system nudged along by our persistant persuasion of our legislators, TWRA management, and the governor.
I also think that faced with legislative wrath of this year, they are particularly receptive to ideas.
On fees, age 51is one of the price breaks in Lifetime licenses - http://www.state.tn....imelicense.html