How Much is a Tennessee Fishing License

Fishing is a popular pastime in Tennessee with over 280 native fish species in more than 1,000 lakes, rivers and streams across the state. But before casting your line, you’ll need to purchase the proper Tennessee fishing license.

This guide will cover everything you need to know about getting a fishing license in Tennessee, including:

Types of Fishing Licenses

Tennessee offers a variety of fishing license options for residents and non-residents:

Resident

• Annual Hunting & Fishing Combo – $33
• Junior Hunt/Fish/Trap – $10
• County of Residence – $10
• 1-Day Fishing – $6
• Annual Trout – $22
• Annual Sportsman – $165

Non-Resident

• Annual Fishing No Trout – $49
• Annual Fishing All Species – $98
• 3-Day Fishing No Trout – $20.50
• 3-Day Fishing All Species – $40.50

Disability

• Hunt & Fish Intellect Disabled – $10
• Wheelchair Hunting & Fishing – $10
• Permanent Blind Fishing – $10

See license fees section below for more options and prices.

Lifetime License Fees

Tennessee offers Lifetime Sportsman Licenses valid for hunting, fishing, trapping and other privileges for the license holder’s lifetime.

Fees vary based on the age at time of purchase:

• Under 3 years: $320
• Ages 3-6: $659
• Ages 7-12: $988
• Ages 13-50: $1,976
• Ages 51-64: $1,153
• Ages 65+: $329

The Lifetime Sportsman License covers all the privileges of an Annual Sportsman License without needing any supplemental permits or licenses.

Lifetime licenses are available to Tennessee residents after living in the state for 12 consecutive months. Licenses for those under 16 require proof of residency for a parent/guardian.

Applications are available through TWRA offices or can be downloaded online. The fees must be paid in full at time of purchase.

License Fees

Here are the license fees for common Tennessee fishing licenses:

Resident

License	Fee
Annual Hunting & Fishing Combo	$33
Junior Hunt/Fish/Trap (ages 13-15)	$10
County of Residence	$10
1-Day Fishing	$6
1-Day All Species	$11
Annual Trout	$22
Annual Sportsman	$165

Non-Resident

License	Fee
Annual Fishing No Trout	$49
Annual Fishing All Species	$98
3-Day Fishing No Trout	$20.50
3-Day Fishing All Species	$40.50

Disability

License	Fee
Hunt & Fish Intellect Disabled	$10
Wheelchair Hunting & Fishing	$10
Permanent Blind Fishing	$10

Special permits may be required for certain species like trout or to fish certain areas.

Where to Buy a License

Tennessee fishing licenses can be purchased:

• Online – At GoOutdoorsTennessee.com
• Local agents – Sporting goods stores, hardware stores, marinas, etc.
• TWRA offices – Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency regional offices

Disability licenses must be purchased directly through TWRA offices.

Licenses can also be purchased same-day at some county clerks, Walmart and boat docks, but selection may be limited.

License Regulations

Here are some key regulations to be aware of regarding Tennessee fishing licenses:

• All anglers age 13 and older must have a fishing license. Those under 13 can fish license-free.
• Military personnel on leave with orders do not need a license.
• Lifetime licenses are valid for license holder’s lifetime regardless if they move out of state.
• Annual licenses expire 365 days after purchase date.
• Trout, paddlefish and other specialty permits may be required in addition to a basic license.

Check current fishing regulations before each trip as seasons and limits change.

Fishing Seasons

While most fishing is open year-round in Tennessee, some special regulations apply:

• Trout – Open March 31 to June 30 and October 1 to November 31
• Bass – Open January 1 to December 31
• Bluegill – Open May 15 to August 31
• Paddlefish – Open April 24 to May 31 (limited to 2 per day)

So be sure to verify the open seasons for the species you plan to fish for.

FAQ

In Closing

Now that you know the basics of Tennessee fishing licenses, you can get out on the water legally.

Just be sure to purchase an appropriate license for your needs, verify special regulations, and adhere to seasons and limits.