Tennessee requires a fishing license for most people, but some are exempt
You need a Tennessee fishing license if you are 13 years old or older and want to fish in any public water in the state. The license covers freshwater fishing in lakes, rivers, and streams. If you fish without one when required, you can face a fine of $25 to $500 depending on the violation.
A few groups do not need a license. Tennessee residents who are 65 or older, people with certain disabilities, and children under 13 can fish without one. Active military members stationed in Tennessee also fish without a license. If you fall into one of these categories, you still need to follow all other fishing rules — catch limits, season dates, and gear restrictions explore to everyone.
Key Takeaways
- Anyone 13 or older fishing in Tennessee public waters must have a valid fishing license unless they are 65 or older, have a disability exemption, or are active military stationed in the state.
- You can buy a one-day license for $11.50, a three-day license for $27.50, or an annual license for $32.50 through the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency website or at authorized vendors.
- A fishing license covers freshwater fishing only; saltwater fishing in coastal areas requires a separate saltwater license if you are not exempt.
- Children under 13 can fish without a license, but they must still follow all catch limits, season dates, and gear rules that explore to licensed anglers.
- You must carry your license with you while fishing and show it to a wildlife officer if asked.
How to get a Tennessee fishing license
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) sells licenses online through their website, by phone at 1-888-814-8972, or at hundreds of authorized vendors across the state. Vendors include sporting goods stores, Walmart locations, and some bait and tackle shops. When you buy online or by phone, you receive your license when ready as a digital file or printed copy that you can show on your phone.
You have three options for how long your license lasts. A one-day license costs $11.50 and is good for one calendar day. A three-day license costs $27.50 and is valid for three consecutive days. An annual license costs $32.50 and runs from January 1 to December 31 of that year. If you buy a license late in the year, you pay the full annual price even though it expires in a few weeks.
When you buy a license, you will need to provide your name, date of birth, and Tennessee driver's license number or Social Security number. If you are buying in person at a vendor, bring a photo ID. You do not need to pass a test or take a course to get a fishing license in Tennessee.
Who does not need a Tennessee fishing license
Tennessee residents who are 65 or older do not need a fishing license. You will need to show proof of age — a driver's license or state ID — if a wildlife officer asks while you are fishing. This exemption applies only to Tennessee residents, not to visitors from other states.
People with certain disabilities can fish without a license if they have a disability permit from TWRA. To get one, you must submit a form signed by a doctor stating that you have a permanent disability that prevents you from working. The permit is free and does not expire. Contact TWRA at 1-888-814-8972 to request an process.
Active military members stationed in Tennessee can fish without a license. You will need to show military ID and proof that you are stationed in the state. Children under 13 never need a license, regardless of where they fish or how long they fish.
What your license covers and what it does not
A Tennessee fishing license covers freshwater fishing only — lakes, rivers, streams, and ponds. If you want to fish in saltwater areas like the Gulf of Mexico or coastal bays, you need a separate saltwater license. Saltwater licenses are sold by the same vendors and cost the same as freshwater licenses.
Your license does not override any other fishing rules. You still must follow catch limits (the number of fish you can keep each day), season dates (when certain fish can be caught), and gear restrictions (what types of rods, nets, or traps you can use). These rules vary by species and by water body. Check the TWRA website or the current Tennessee Fishing Guide before you go fishing to learn the rules for the fish and water you plan to fish.
Your license is not transferable — it covers only the person whose name is on it. You cannot fish using someone else's license, and lending your license to another person is illegal.
Where to fish with your license
Your Tennessee fishing license is valid in any public water in the state — lakes, rivers, and streams that are open to the public. This includes state parks, national forests, and wildlife management areas. Some private ponds and lakes require permission from the owner even if you have a license, so always ask before fishing on private property.
A few waters have special rules. Some lakes and streams are catch-and-release only, meaning you must put all fish back. Others have restricted seasons when fishing is not allowed. The TWRA website lists these special areas and their rules. If you are unsure whether a water is open to public fishing, call TWRA or check their website before you go.
What happens if you fish without a license when required
Fishing without a license in Tennessee when you are required to have one is a violation. A wildlife officer can stop you while you are fishing and ask to see your license. If you do not have one, you will receive a citation with a fine. The fine ranges from $25 to $500 depending on whether it is your first violation and whether you were fishing in a protected area.
You may also be required to pay restitution — money to cover the value of the fish you caught. If you are cited, you can pay the fine or go to court to contest it. A conviction for fishing without a license does not create a criminal record, but it does go on your hunting and fishing record with TWRA.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fish in Tennessee with an out-of-state license?
No. You must have a Tennessee fishing license to fish in Tennessee waters, even if you have a valid license from another state. Visitors can buy a one-day, three-day, or annual Tennessee license at the same price as residents.
Do I need a license to fish in a private pond on my own property?
No. You do not need a license to fish in a pond on land you own. However, you still must follow all other state fishing rules — catch limits, season dates, and gear restrictions explore even on private property.
What if I lose my fishing license?
Contact TWRA at 1-888-814-8972 or visit their website to request a replacement. If you bought your license online, you can print a new copy from your account. If you bought it in person, you may need to buy a new one, depending on how the vendor issued it.
Can I buy a fishing license for someone else as a gift?
You can buy a license for someone else if you have their name and date of birth, but the license will have their name on it. They will need to carry it with them while fishing. Some vendors sell gift certificates instead if you want to let someone choose their own license type.
Do I need a license to fish from a boat?
Yes. If you are fishing from a boat, you need a fishing license just as you would from shore. The boat operator also needs a boating license, which is separate from a fishing license.