Tennessee fishing license cost starts at $6 for a standard resident one-day license without trout. A nonresident three-day license starts at $20 without trout or $40 with trout. Choose by residency, dates and whether your water requires a separate permit.
Tennessee Fishing License Cost for Common Trips



| Trip | Standard option | Base fee |
|---|---|---|
| Resident one day without trout | 1-Day Fishing – No Trout | $6 |
| Resident one day with trout | 1-Day Fishing – All Species | $11 |
| Nonresident three days without trout | 3-Day Fishing – No Trout | $20 |
| Nonresident three days with trout | 3-Day Fishing – All Species | $40 |
| Resident general annual fishing | Annual Combination Hunt/Fish | $33 |
See the TWRA price list for age brackets and processing fees. Residents and visitors can use the Tennessee annual fishing guide to compare longer coverage.
Check the Water Before Choosing a License



TWRA lists a separate one-day Gatlinburg trout license and location-specific permits for some other trips. Check the exact water and date in the Tennessee trout regulations and the license price list before paying.
Check TWRA lake permits and Reelfoot preservation rules if relevant. A general fishing license may need a site permit even when it already covers the fish you intend to target.
Match the License to the Angler


TWRA says children under 13 can generally fish without a license. Ages 13 to 15 have separate junior products and may still need a site permit. Use the TWRA FAQ and current Tennessee fishing regulations.
Choose the appropriate residency and dates through the state’s licensing system. See the Tennessee resident options and Tennessee visitor rates for age and duration details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest standard one-day fishing license in Tennessee?
TWRA lists a resident one-day no-trout license at $6 for the applicable age group, before processing fees. Other resident exemptions or options can apply.
Do visitors need a separate trout license for a three-day trip?
The $40 nonresident three-day all-species license covers trout. Check separate location permits for the water where you will fish.
Can children under 13 fish without a Tennessee license?
TWRA says children under 13 can generally fish without a license. Check rules for the specific water and activity.