Fishing is a great way to spend time with family and friends while enjoying nature. You will need a fishing permit if you plan to fish in Tennessee. In this article we will explain the rules and regulations governing fishing licenses in Tennessee, and guide you through the application process.
What is a fishing license?
A fishing license allows a person to fish legally on Tennessee’s waters. Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA), which is the state’s wildlife agency, issues fishing licenses for residents and non-residents. The licenses are available in different types and lengths depending on what type of fishing you intend to do and for how long you plan stay in Tennessee.
Who needs a fishing license?
Anyone over the age of 13 must have a license to fish on Tennessee’s public waterways. Children under 13 years of age do not require a fishing licence. They must be accompanied, however, by an adult with a valid fishing licence.
Types of fishing licenses
Tennessee offers a variety of fishing licenses for residents and non-residents alike, including:
Resident Fishing Licenses
Residents fishing licenses are only issued to those who have lived in Tennessee for 90 days or more. The cost of a Tennessee resident fishing license depends on the length of the license as well as the type of fishing that you plan to do.
Non-Resident fishing licenses
Non-resident fishing permits are issued to those who do not meet residency requirements for a resident license. The cost of a fishing license for non-residents also varies depending on the length of the license as well as the type of fishing that you plan to do.
One-Day Fishing License
Residents and non-residents can purchase a one-day fishing permit if they only plan to fish on a single day. This license is only valid on the day it was purchased.
Three-day fishing license
Residents and non-residents can obtain a three-day fishing permit if they plan to fish three consecutive days.
Annual Fishing License
Residents and non-residents can purchase an annual fishing license if they plan to fish in Tennessee over the course of a year. An annual fishing license costs less than multiple short-term licenses bought throughout the year.
Tennessee Fishing License Prices
The cost of a Tennessee fishing license varies depending on the type and length of time that you plan to fish. Following are the current prices of fishing licenses for Tennessee.
Resident Fishing Licence Costs
- One-Day License: $6.50
- Three-Day License: $11.00
- Annual License: $34.00
- Lifetime License: $200.00 for ages 3-7, $400.00 for ages 8-12, and $600.00 for ages 13 and older
Non-Resident Fishing license costs
- One-Day License: $11.00
- Three-Day License: $20.50
- Annual License: $50.00
- Lifetime License: $200.00 for ages 3-7, $400.00 for ages 8-12, and $1,000.00 for ages 13 and older
Where to buy a fishing license in Tennessee
You can buy a fishing licence in Tennessee the following ways:
Online Shopping
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency’s website is the easiest place to buy a fishing permit in Tennessee. You will need an email address and a credit card or debit card to do this. You will receive an email confirmation once you have completed the online transaction. This email will include a copy of your driver’s license that you can print.
Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency Office
You can also purchase a fishing permit in person at any Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency office, including their main office in Nashville. You will need a valid ID as well as payment for the fishing license.
Authorized Retailers
You can buy a fishing permit at any authorized retailer who sells hunting and/or fishing licenses. This includes sporting goods stores, bait and tackle shops, and other fishing-related retailers.
Fishing Regulations in Tennessee
It’s important to know the rules and regulations that govern fishing in Tennessee before you go fishing. Here are some of Tennessee’s most important fishing regulations:
Fishing seasons and limits
Tennessee has different fishing seasons and daily catches limits for each type of fish. The current fishing regulations can be found on the TWRA’s website or in any TWRA offices.
Fishing Methods
Tennessee has specific rules and regulations governing fishing methods. It’s illegal, for example, to use explosives or poisons to catch fish.
Fishing License Requirements
As we have discussed, anyone older than 13 years old must possess a valid fishing licence to fish in Tennessee public waters. You must also keep your license on you at all time while fishing.
Fishing Permits
Some types of fishing in Tennessee also require a permit. If you want to fish for trout you will need the Trout Stamp endorsement.
In conclusion
Fishing is an excellent way to spend time with family and friends while enjoying Tennessee’s natural beauty. To fish legally in Tennessee, you will need a valid fishing permit. This article should have provided you with the information needed to obtain a Tennessee fishing license and follow the rules governing fishing in Tennessee. Happy fishing!