Tough to move to a new part of the country. For most people making new friends is a task that takes time and some social interactions. O'Bass had a nice idea, so did others.
I have lived in central Pa., Oklahoma, Kentucky, Buffalo, NJ, NYC and now Ct. One of the exciting things is finding new fishing and hunting spots. I even do that here in Ct. by hunting Pa. and NY. This week I am not in Pa. so I am exploring some new Ct. deer hunting spots by using a state land No Lottery B tag. You and I even collaborated on some trout streams earlier this year.
You have the personality to make friends easily but it takes associations. Maybe join a Rod & Gun club. Or be a volunteer with the Tn. DEC. No one knows who you are right now so just reach out and meet some people, that won't be hard for you to do.
In an area like eastern Tn. folks are probably a bit suspicious of an "outsider" especially one who moves in from the north. Disarm them with your knowledge of fishing and hunting and let them know that your new home was a personal first choice among moves for you and your wife to get out of Ct. Make them feel comfortable by being comfortable among them, a little bit at a time. Pretty soon folks will be seeking you out to do things and you will be so busy you'll have to get a calendar to write down all of your outings.