TN Fishing License Cost

Why You Need a Fishing License in Tennessee

Tennessee is home to a diverse array of fish species and stunning waterways, making it a popular destination for anglers. However, to legally fish in the state’s public waters, you must possess a valid Tennessee fishing license. This requirement applies to both residents and non-residents aged 13 and older.

Purchasing a fishing license not only ensures compliance with state regulations but also contributes to the conservation and management of Tennessee’s fisheries. The funds generated from license sales support various initiatives, including:

Fish stocking programs
- Habitat restoration and enhancement
- Access improvements
- Educational programs
- Research and monitoring

By obtaining a fishing license, you’re actively participating in the preservation of Tennessee’s aquatic resources for future generations.

Tennessee Fishing License Options

Tennessee offers a variety of fishing license options to cater to different angler preferences and durations of stay. Let’s explore the available choices:

Daily Fishing Permits

If you’re planning a short fishing trip or want to test the waters before committing to a longer license, a daily fishing permit is an excellent option. Here’s what you need to know:

Resident Daily Fishing Permit: Tennessee residents can purchase a daily fishing permit for just $6.50 (as of 2024). This permit allows you to fish for a single day in all public waters across the state.
- Non-Resident Daily Fishing Permit: For non-residents visiting Tennessee, the daily fishing permit costs $11.50 (as of 2024). Like the resident version, this permit grants you access to all public waters for a single day of fishing.

It’s important to note that daily fishing permits do not include trout fishing privileges. If you wish to target trout, you’ll need to purchase an additional trout license (more on that later).

Annual Fishing Licenses

For anglers who plan to fish in Tennessee more frequently or throughout the year, an annual fishing license offers better value and convenience. The costs for annual licenses in 2024 are as follows:

Resident Annual Fishing License: Tennessee residents can purchase an annual fishing license for $33.00. This license is valid for 365 days from the date of purchase and allows you to fish in all public waters across the state.
- Non-Resident Annual Fishing License: Non-residents can obtain an annual fishing license for $49.00. Like the resident version, this license is valid for 365 days and grants access to all public waters in Tennessee.

Annual fishing licenses provide the flexibility to fish whenever you want throughout the year without the need to purchase daily permits each time you hit the water.

Daiwa BG Spinning Combo

Trout Fishing Licenses

If you’re interested in fishing for trout in Tennessee, you’ll need to purchase an additional trout license along with your regular fishing license. Trout licenses are required for all anglers, regardless of age, who fish in designated trout waters.

Resident Trout License: Tennessee residents can add a trout license to their existing fishing license for an additional $21.00 (as of 2024).
- Non-Resident Trout License: Non-residents can purchase a trout license for $41.00 (as of 2024) to complement their regular fishing license.

Trout licenses are valid for the same duration as your regular fishing license (daily or annual) and must be renewed accordingly.

Specialty Licenses and Exemptions

Tennessee offers several specialty licenses and exemptions to accommodate specific groups of anglers:

Lifetime Sportsman License: Tennessee residents can invest in a lifetime sportsman license, which includes both hunting and fishing privileges. The cost varies based on age, ranging from $320.00 for children under 3 years old to $1,976.00 for adults aged 13-50 (as of 2024).
- Senior Citizen Licenses: Tennessee residents aged 65 and older can purchase discounted annual fishing licenses. The senior citizen annual fishing license costs $10.00, while the senior citizen annual sportsman license (including hunting and fishing) is priced at $49.00 (as of 2024).
- Disabled Licenses: Tennessee offers discounted fishing licenses for residents with certain disabilities. These include:
  - Legally blind individuals
  - Persons permanently confined to a wheelchair
  - Intellectually disabled individuals
  - Recipients of SSI benefits due to intellectual disability
  - Disabled veterans with a 30% or more war-related disability or 100% service-connected disability
  The cost for a permanent sport fishing license for disabled individuals is $10.00 (as of 2024).