What You Pay for a Tennessee Fishing License

A Tennessee fishing license costs between $27 and $110 depending on how long you want it and whether you fish in freshwater, saltwater, or both. A one-year freshwater license is $27. A three-year freshwater license is $71. Saltwater licenses run higher: $110 for one year or $297 for three years. If you want to fish both freshwater and saltwater, you pay the saltwater price, which includes freshwater rights.

You can also buy a short-term license if you do not fish regularly. A 14-day license costs $16.50 for freshwater or $38.50 for saltwater. A seven-day license is $11.50 for freshwater or $27.50 for saltwater. A one-day license is $6.50 for freshwater or $16.50 for saltwater.

Tennessee residents and non-residents pay the same price. You buy your license through the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) website, by phone at 615-781-6500, or at any authorized vendor — most sporting goods stores, Walmart locations, and bait shops sell them.

Key Takeaways

  • A one-year freshwater license costs $27; a three-year license costs $71.
  • Saltwater licenses cost $110 for one year or $297 for three years and include freshwater rights.
  • Short-term licenses (one day, seven days, or 14 days) are available if you fish occasionally.
  • You can buy a license online through TWRA, by phone, or at sporting goods stores and bait shops throughout the state.

Who Needs a License in Tennessee

Anyone 13 years old or older who fishes in Tennessee waters must have a valid license. This applies whether you fish from shore, a boat, or a dock. The license covers you for the calendar year (January 1 through December 31) if you buy an annual license, or for the specific dates you choose if you buy a short-term one.

Children under 13 do not need a license. Tennessee residents 65 and older can buy a lifetime license for $27 instead of paying annually — this is a one-time purchase that never expires.

Where to Buy and How Long It Takes

The fastest way to get a license is online at the TWRA website (tn.gov/twra). You can print it when ready after purchase, and it is valid right away. You do not need to wait for anything in the mail.

If you buy by phone (615-781-6500), TWRA staff will email or mail your license depending on which you request. Email delivery is faster. If you buy in person at a vendor, you walk out with your license the same day.

You must carry your license with you while fishing. If you print it at home, bring the printed copy. If you buy it on your phone, bring your phone or a photo of the license on your phone — TWRA officers accept either.

Saltwater Versus Freshwater: Which One You Need

Tennessee's saltwater fishing happens in the Gulf of Mexico off the coast — specifically in federal waters and state waters near the Florida panhandle. Most Tennessee residents who fish do so in freshwater lakes, rivers, and streams within the state, so they buy a freshwater license.

If you plan to fish in the Gulf, you need a saltwater license. The saltwater license automatically includes freshwater rights, so you do not need both. If you are unsure which you need, a freshwater license covers all inland fishing in Tennessee; buy saltwater only if you are specifically going to the Gulf.

Discounts and Special Licenses

Tennessee offers a lifetime license for residents 65 and older for $27 — a significant savings if you plan to fish for many years. Active military members and veterans can buy a lifetime license for $27 as well.

Tennessee also issues a disabled person's license at a reduced rate. Contact TWRA directly at 615-781-6500 to learn the current price and what documentation you need to bring.

If you fish on private land with the landowner's permission, you still need a license. The license requirement applies to all public and private waters in Tennessee.

What Your License Covers

Your fishing license allows you to fish for most species in Tennessee — bass, catfish, crappie, bluegill, and many others. It does not cover hunting or trapping. If you want to hunt as well, you need a separate hunting license.

Some fish have additional restrictions beyond just having a license. For example, certain species have minimum size limits or daily catch limits. The TWRA website lists these rules by species and by water body. Your license itself does not tell you these limits — you are responsible for checking them before you fish.

Renewing Your License

If you buy an annual license, it expires on December 31. You can renew it anytime after November 1 of that year through the TWRA website, by phone, or at a vendor. Many people renew in early December to avoid the rush.

If you buy a three-year license, it is valid for three calendar years from the date of purchase. For example, if you buy on March 15, 2024, it expires on December 31, 2026. You can renew starting November 1, 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a license if I fish on my own property?

Yes. Tennessee requires a license for all fishing in the state, including on private land you own. The only exception is if you are under 13 years old.

Can I buy a license for someone else as a gift?

Yes. You can purchase a license through the TWRA website or by phone and provide it to someone else. If you buy online, you will receive a confirmation with the license number that you can share or print.

What happens if I fish without a license?

Fishing without a valid license is a violation of Tennessee law. TWRA officers can issue citations with fines. The penalty varies depending on whether it is a first offense, but fines typically range from $50 to several hundred dollars.

Is there a license for catch-and-release fishing only?

No. Tennessee does not offer a separate catch-and-release license. You need the same license whether you keep fish or release them.