Tennessee fishing license prices depend on your age, residency, trip length, target species, and fishing location. The biggest choice is whether you need trout privileges or a special-water permit. The fees below were checked against the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) license schedule available on July 28, 2026, but TWRA notes that prices and regulations can change.
Quick Answer
A Tennessee resident age 16–64 pays $33 for the annual Combination Hunt/Fish license, plus $21 to fish for trout. Nonresidents pay $49 annually without trout or $98 for all species, including trout. Processing fees may apply, and some lakes and trout waters require extra permits.
Key Takeaways
- Children under 13 may fish without a Tennessee license, although a permit may still be required on certain waters.
- Residents age 16–64 generally need the $33 annual Combination Hunt/Fish license; trout privileges add $21.
- Nonresident annual fishing costs $49 without trout or $98 for all species, including trout.
- Most annual licenses are valid for 365 days from the purchase date, not just through the end of the calendar year.
- TWRA lake, Gatlinburg, Tellico-Citico, South Holston, Lake Halford, Bedford Lake, and Reelfoot requirements can add separate fees.
Tennessee Fishing License Cost at a Glance
| License | Current Fee | Main Use |
|---|---|---|
| Resident annual Combination Hunt/Fish, ages 16–64 | $33 | Base annual license; trout requires the $21 supplement |
| Resident county fishing, no trout, ages 13+ | $10 | Natural bait in the angler’s county of residence, with restrictions |
| Resident junior Hunt/Fish/Trap, ages 13–15 | $9 | Annual youth fishing, hunting, and trapping privileges |
| Nonresident annual fishing, no trout, age 16+ | $49 | Annual fishing for species other than trout |
| Nonresident annual fishing, all species, age 16+ | $98 | Annual fishing including trout |
| Resident annual senior Hunt/Fish/Trap, age 65+ | $4 | Low-cost annual senior license |
These are base fees. TWRA states that processing fees apply to purchases, and extra permits may be required for trout or specific waters. Check the final cart before paying.
Most Tennessee annual licenses and permits are valid for 365 days from the date of purchase unless TWRA lists a different expiration rule.
Who Needs a Tennessee Fishing License and Who Is Exempt
Residents and nonresidents age 13 or older generally need a valid Tennessee license to fish or attempt to take fish. Ages 13–15 use a junior license, while anglers age 16 and older use the applicable adult license. TWRA also says a person who assists another angler with taking fish must have the proper license.
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Main Tennessee Fishing License Exemptions
A license is not required in several limited situations:
- Residents and nonresidents under age 13 may fish without a license, although certain permits can apply to all ages.
- Qualifying Tennessee farmland owners, spouses, children, and certain other family members may fish on eligible family farmland under the state’s farmland exemption rules.
- Qualifying agricultural tenants, their spouses, and dependent children may fish on the farmland where they reside with the owner’s permission.
- Military personnel fishing while on official leave may qualify without buying a license, but they must carry their leave orders. A pass alone is not enough.
- A Tennessee resident born before March 1, 1926, is exempt but should carry proof of age and residency.
- In 2026, Free Fishing Day was June 6, and children age 15 and younger could fish free June 6–12.
Warning: Certified blindness, intellectual disability, wheelchair use, or disabled-veteran status does not create a blanket license exemption. TWRA offers special reduced-fee licenses that require an application and supporting documents.
Who Qualifies as a Tennessee Resident?
TWRA accepts a valid Tennessee driver’s license or state ID as common proof of residency. A person without either may qualify after living in Tennessee for 90 consecutive days with the genuine intent to make the state a permanent home, but two approved supporting documents are required. Certain active-duty military members, their qualifying children, and students enrolled in Tennessee for at least six months may also buy resident licenses.
Nonresidents born in Tennessee may apply for a Native Tennessean annual license and, after approval, purchase certain annual licenses at resident rates.
Resident Annual Fishing License Options and Prices
The standard resident annual option for ages 16–64 is the Combination Hunt/Fish Annual license, which costs $33. Tennessee does not list a separate statewide resident fishing-only annual license for this age group. Trout anglers normally add the $21 Annual Trout Supplemental license, making the combined base cost $54 before processing fees.
| Resident License | Fee | Important Limits |
|---|---|---|
| Junior Hunt/Fish/Trap, ages 13–15 | $9 | No state supplemental licenses required; some area permits can still apply |
| Combination Hunt/Fish Annual, ages 16–64 | $33 | Trout requires the $21 supplemental license |
| County of Residence Fishing, no trout, ages 13+ | $10 | Only in the home county; natural bait allowed, but no minnows or artificial lures |
| Annual Trout Supplemental | $21 | Must be paired with an eligible base license |
| Annual Senior Citizen Hunt/Fish/Trap, age 65+ | $4 | Available after the 65th birthday; proof of age and residency required |
| Permanent Senior Citizen Hunt/Fish/Trap, age 65+ | $49 | One-time permanent option; some WMA and special permits may still apply |
| Annual Sportsman, ages 16–64 | $165 | Includes state hunting, trapping, fishing, supplements, and non-quota permits |
| Senior Sportsman, age 65+ | $49 | Broader annual privileges than the basic senior licenses |
The County of Residence license is inexpensive, but its bait and location rules make it unsuitable for many anglers. Read the restrictions before choosing it just to save money.
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Nonresident Annual Fishing License Rates
Nonresident anglers age 16 and older can choose between an annual no-trout license for $49 and an annual all-species license for $98. The $98 option already includes trout privileges; it is not a separate $99 trout permit added to the $49 license.
| Nonresident Fishing License | Fee |
|---|---|
| Annual Junior Hunt/Fish Combination, ages 13–15 | $10 |
| 3-Day Fishing, no trout, age 16+ | $20 |
| 3-Day Fishing, all species including trout, age 16+ | $40 |
| 10-Day Fishing, no trout | $30 |
| 10-Day Fishing, all species including trout, age 16+ | $61 |
| Annual Fishing, no trout, age 16+ | $49 |
| Annual Fishing, all species including trout, age 16+ | $98 |
A nonresident who expects to fish more than a few days should compare the short-term total with the annual fee. For example, two separate 3-day no-trout licenses cost $40, while the annual no-trout license costs $49 before processing fees.
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Lifetime and Reduced-Fee Lifetime License Pricing
The Tennessee Lifetime Sportsman License gives the holder the privileges of an Annual Sportsman License for life, even if the holder later moves out of state. It is available to qualifying Tennessee residents and is priced by the applicant’s age when the application is submitted.
Note: The Lifetime Sportsman License is different from the $49 Permanent Senior Citizen Hunt/Fish/Trap license. The lifetime application is not currently completed through the normal online license cart, and TWRA states that lifetime fees are nonrefundable.
Lifetime Sportsman Prices
| Age Tier | Fee |
|---|---|
| Infant under age 3 | $320 |
| Toddler ages 3–6 | $659 |
| Youth ages 7–12 | $988 |
| Adult ages 13–50 | $1,976 |
| Older adult ages 51–64 | $1,153 |
| Senior age 65+ | $329 |
| Adopted child under age 13 | $320 |
Age-Based Fee Tiers
The lower child rates reward early purchase, but the decision should be based on expected long-term use and the privileges included. The adult price does not rise continuously with age: it is $1,976 for ages 13–50, drops to $1,153 for ages 51–64, and drops again to $329 at age 65.
The applicant generally must have lived in Tennessee continuously for the 12 months immediately before purchase. For an applicant under age 3, at least one parent or designated guardian must meet the 12-month residency requirement.
Reduced-Fee Eligibility
Reduced-fee and permanent options are based on specific eligibility rules, not simply on a person’s desire to fish less often. Seniors may compare the $4 annual senior license, the $49 Permanent Senior Citizen license, the $49 Senior Sportsman license, and the $329 Lifetime Sportsman license. These products do not provide identical privileges, so the cheapest option is not always the best match.
Adopted children under age 13 may qualify for the $320 adopted-child lifetime rate. Disability licenses use a separate application process and are explained below.
Senior, Disability, and Special Eligibility License Costs
Tennessee offers low-cost licenses for qualifying seniors, disabled residents, and veterans. These licenses require proof of eligibility, and several are available only by application rather than through the standard online cart.
| Special License | Fee | Key Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Resident Hunting & Fishing Disabled Under 18 | $5 | Tennessee physician certification; renewable annually |
| Sport Fishing Certified Blind | $10 | Application and qualifying certification |
| Wheelchair Hunting and Fishing Resident License | $10 | Physician certification of permanent wheelchair restriction or qualifying amputation |
| Resident Disabled Veteran Hunting and Fishing | $10 | VA certification of qualifying service-connected disability |
| Resident Permanent SSI Intellectually Fishing | $10 | SSI benefits due to intellectual disability |
| Hunt and Fish Intellectually Disabled Resident | $10 | Doctor’s statement verifying eligibility |
Except for the under-18 annual license, TWRA describes these restricted disability licenses as one-time licenses valid for the holder’s life. They include the base license and applicable state fishing supplements, but some WMA, special-water, or federal permits may still be required.
Supplemental and Trout Permits Explained
Resident trout anglers usually need the $21 Annual Trout Supplemental license in addition to an eligible base license. TWRA allows it to be paired with the resident Combination Hunt/Fish Annual license, the County of Residence license, or the resident 1-Day Fishing No Trout license.
Nonresidents do not buy the same $21 supplement. They select a short-term or annual all-species license that includes trout, such as the $40 three-day, $61 ten-day, or $98 annual option.
Trout privileges do not automatically cover every special water. Gatlinburg, Tellico-Citico, and some other locations can require a location-specific license or permit.
Pro Tip: Decide where you will fish before checking out. A base license, trout privilege, and special-water permit are separate layers, and buying the wrong combination can cost more or leave you unlicensed.
TWRA also sells hunting supplements, including a $37 waterfowl supplement and $33 supplements for big-game gun, archery, and muzzleloader privileges. These are hunting products and are not required for ordinary fishing.
Short-Term and One-Day Fishing Permit Pricing
Short-term licenses work well for day trips and vacations, but the options differ for residents and nonresidents.
| Short-Term Option | Fee | Who It Fits |
|---|---|---|
| Resident 1-Day Fishing, no trout, ages 13–64 | $6 | A one-day resident trip without trout |
| Resident 1-Day Fishing, all species, ages 16–64 | $11 | A one-day resident trip including trout |
| Nonresident 3-Day Fishing, no trout, age 16+ | $20 | A short visit without trout |
| Nonresident 3-Day Fishing, all species, age 16+ | $40 | A short visit that includes trout |
| Nonresident 10-Day Fishing, no trout | $30 | A longer trip without trout |
| Nonresident 10-Day Fishing, all species, age 16+ | $61 | A longer trip including trout |
| Gatlinburg 1-Day Trout License | $11 | The only license needed for one day in Gatlinburg waters |
Processing fees can make repeated short-term purchases less economical. Compare the final checkout total with the annual option if you may return within the next 365 days.
Permits for Specific Waters and TWRA Lake Fees
Some Tennessee waters require a location-specific permit in addition to the base license. The current TWRA schedule lists the following common fees:
| Special Water Permit | Fee | How It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Tellico-Citico Trout 1-Day Permit | $6 | Required for all ages during applicable seasons on Tellico River and Citico Creek, and year-round on Green Cove Pond |
| TWRA State Lake Fishing Permit, daily | $6 | Added to the base license for one day on covered TWRA state lakes |
| TWRA State Lake Fishing Permit, annual | $48 | Annual access to covered TWRA state lakes |
| Bedford Lake 1-Day Fishing Permit | $6 | One-day Bedford Lake permit |
| Lake Halford permit | $6 daily or $48 annual | Required for covered recreational use, with age-based exemptions |
| Gatlinburg 1-Day Trout Permit | $3 | Added to an appropriate base license for one day in Gatlinburg waters |
| Gatlinburg 3-Day Trout Permit | $9 | Added to an appropriate fishing license for three days |
| South Holston Reservoir Supplemental, ages 13+ | $20 | For licensed Tennessee residents fishing the Virginia portion; required even for Sportsman license holders |
| Reelfoot Preservation Permit | $3 one day, $10 three days, or $16 annual | Required for covered use of Reelfoot WMA unless an exemption applies |
Holders of Lifetime, Annual, or Senior Sportsman licenses are exempt from many TWRA special fishing permits, but not every location-specific requirement. Resident anglers age 65 and older and anglers under age 16 are exempt from many lake permits, although ages 13–15 still need the junior license.
Warning: Do not rely on a general lake fee without checking the exact water. Gatlinburg, Tellico-Citico, South Holston, Reelfoot, Bedford Lake, and Lake Halford each have distinct rules, exemptions, or permit combinations.
How and Where to Purchase or Renew a Fishing License
Most licenses and permits can be purchased through GoOutdoorsTennessee, a TWRA license agent, or a TWRA regional office. Some specialty products, including Lifetime Sportsman and disability licenses, require a separate application.
Online Purchase & Renewal
- Open GoOutdoorsTennessee and locate or create your TWRA customer profile.
- Confirm residency, age, and identity information. A Social Security number is required by federal law for a Tennessee hunting or fishing license purchase.
- Select the correct base license, trout privilege, and any special-water permit.
- Review the effective and expiration dates and the full total, including processing fees, before paying.
- Save the digital license to your phone or print a copy.
Most annual licenses are valid for 365 days from purchase. TWRA says an existing license generally becomes eligible for renewal when it is within 10 days of expiration. Active licenses can be reprinted online at no charge.
In-Person Agents & Offices
TWRA license agents include many sporting goods stores, bait and tackle shops, hardware stores, boat docks, county clerks, and other approved sellers. Regional offices can also help with license questions and certain applications.
| Location Type | Best For | Bring |
|---|---|---|
| TWRA licensed agent | Standard licenses and permits | Identification, residency proof when needed, and payment |
| TWRA regional office | Complex questions, replacement help, and application guidance | Identification and all supporting eligibility documents |
| Online account | Fast purchase, renewal, and free reprinting | Customer profile details and electronic payment |
Pro Tip: Keep a digital copy in the TWRA mobile system and a screenshot or printed backup. You must be able to show proof of the proper license when requested by a wildlife officer.
Rules on Fishing With Minors and License Sharing
Children under age 13 may fish without a Tennessee license. Youth ages 13–15 need their own junior license, which costs $9 for residents and $10 for nonresidents. At age 16, the angler moves to the applicable adult license.
Licenses are not transferable. An adult cannot let a child, friend, or family member fish under the adult’s license. TWRA also requires a license when a person assists with taking fish, so an adult who actively fishes, handles another rod, or helps land fish should carry the proper license.
- Buy the correct license for each angler age 13 or older.
- Check whether a permit applies to all ages at the chosen water.
- Do not share a license, customer number, or digital credential.
- Carry proof of any age, residency, military-leave, farmland, or disability qualification used.
- Follow the current creel limits, size limits, seasons, and water-specific rules even when no license is required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Youth Fishing Competitions Require Separate Permits?
Tennessee does not publish a blanket competition license for every youth event. Each participant must meet the normal age and license rules, and the water may require a special permit. Event organizers who want an event advertised by TWRA must submit the Fishing Event Host Registration Form at least two months before the event.
Can Nonprofit Groups Get Bulk-License Discounts?
TWRA’s published recreational license schedule does not list a general nonprofit or bulk-purchase discount. Participants normally need the license required for their age, residency, species, and water. A nonprofit planning an event should ask TWRA whether a specific event program or free-fishing date applies.
Are Fishing License Fees Refundable if Unused?
Do not assume an unused license can be refunded. TWRA specifically states that Lifetime Sportsman fees are nonrefundable, and the public fee schedule does not promise routine refunds for unused recreational licenses. Review the cart before paying and contact TWRA promptly if a transaction error occurs.
Does a Medical Condition Exempt You From License Fees?
No general medical exemption applies. Qualifying Tennessee residents may apply for reduced-fee licenses for certified blindness, permanent wheelchair restriction, intellectual disability, qualifying disabled-veteran status, or total and permanent disability under age 18. Documentation is required.
Are Online Purchases Subject to Additional Processing Fees?
Yes. TWRA states that processing fees apply to license and permit purchases. Review the final total at checkout because the displayed license fee may not be the complete amount charged.
How Long Is a Tennessee Annual Fishing License Valid?
Most annual Tennessee licenses and permits are valid for 365 days from the date of purchase unless the product lists a different expiration date.
Can I Show a Digital Tennessee Fishing License?
Yes. You can store licenses on your phone through TWRA’s mobile system. You may also print an active license from your online account at no charge.
Do Children Need a Tennessee Fishing License?
Children under age 13 do not need a fishing license. Ages 13–15 need a junior license, and anglers age 16 and older need the applicable adult license. Some special-water permits apply regardless of age.
Sources
- TWRA License Structure and Fees — current license prices, eligibility, exemptions, lifetime tiers, disability licenses, special permits, purchase methods, and validity periods.
- Tennessee Fishing Guide and Regulations — statewide and water-specific fishing rules, seasons, limits, and current regulation updates.
- TWRA Family Fishing Opportunities — youth licensing, Free Fishing Day, Free Fishing Week, and event-host registration.
- TWRA Trout Fishing and Stockings — current trout stocking information and links to trout regulations.
- TWRA Mobile On-The-Go Information — digital license storage, license purchasing, and mobile access to regulations.
Conclusion
For most Tennessee residents age 16–64, the annual starting point is the $33 Combination Hunt/Fish license. Add the $21 trout supplement when needed. Nonresidents pay $49 annually without trout or $98 for all species. Seniors, youth, disabled residents, veterans, and lifetime applicants have separate options, while certain lakes and trout waters add location-specific permits. Confirm the exact license combination, processing fee, and current water rules before you fish.
