Tennessee Fishing License Guide 2026: Types, Costs, and Purchase
If you’re planning to cast a line anywhere in the Volunteer State this year, getting your Tennessee fishing license squared away before you hit the water is non-negotiable. For 2026, resident anglers aged 16–64 need at minimum a Combination Hunt/Fish license at $33 per year, while non-residents pay $49 annually for a basic no-trout license — and everyone fishes free on Bobby Wilson Free Fishing Day, June 6, 2026. This guide breaks down every license type, current fee, who qualifies for exemptions, where to buy, and the updated 2025–2026 regulations you need to know before your first trip out.
Whether you’re a weekend warrior targeting largemouth bass on Pickwick Reservoir or a visiting angler chasing rainbow trout in the Smokies, Tennessee has an option tailored to your needs and budget. Read on — because buying the wrong license (or skipping it altogether) can cost you far more than it saves.
Who Needs a Tennessee Fishing License in 2026?
Almost every angler 13 years of age and older must hold a valid Tennessee fishing license to fish in public waters. This applies to both residents and non-residents. Residency is determined by 90 consecutive days of living in Tennessee, confirmed by a state-issued driver’s license, voter registration card, vehicle registration, student ID, or I-94 record.
Additionally, a Social Security Number is required at the time of purchase. Licenses are valid for 365 days from the date of purchase for most standard types.
Tennessee Fishing License Exemptions: Who Can Fish for Free
Not everyone needs to pay. The following individuals are legally exempt from holding a fishing license in Tennessee:
| Exemption Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Children under age 13 | Residents and non-residents alike |
| Landowners & family | Must fish on their own farmland; must be Tennessee residents |
| Farm tenants & dependents | Must reside on the farmland and have landowner permission |
| Resident grandchildren/great-grandchildren | Under age 16, fishing on grandparents’ or great-grandparents’ farmland |
| First cousins (joint farmland owners) | And their children, on the jointly owned farmland |
| Military personnel on active leave | Must carry a copy of official leave orders — a pass does not qualify |
| Residents born before March 1, 1926 | Must carry proof of age and Tennessee residency |
| Bobby Wilson Free Fishing Day | June 6, 2026 — everyone fishes free, no license required |
| Free Fishing Week | June 6–12, 2026 — all anglers age 15 and under fish for free |
Important: Being exempt from a license does not exempt you from following catch limits, size limits, or other fishing regulations.
2026 Tennessee Resident Fishing License Fees
Annual & Short-Term Resident Licenses
| License Type | Age Group | Annual Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Junior Hunt, Fish & Trap | Ages 13–15 | $9.00 |
| 1-Day Fishing – No Trout | Ages 13–64 | $6.00 |
| 1-Day Fishing – All Species (incl. trout) | Ages 16–64 | $11.00 |
| County of Residence Fishing – No Trout | Ages 13+ | $10.00 |
| Combination Hunt/Fish Annual | Ages 16–64 | $33.00 |
| Annual Senior Citizen Hunt/Fish/Trap | Age 65+ | $4.00 |
| Permanent Senior Citizen Hunt/Fish/Trap | Age 65+ (one-time) | $49.00 |
| Annual Sportsman | Ages 16–64 | $165.00 |
| Senior Sportsman | Ages 65+ | $49.00 |
Note: The County of Residence license is the most budget-friendly option but restricts you to your home county and does not allow minnows, artificial bait, or trout fishing.
Resident Lifetime Sportsman License Fees
| Age at Purchase | Lifetime Fee |
|---|---|
| Infant/Adopted (0–2) | $320.00 |
| Ages 3–6 | $659.00 |
| Ages 7–12 | $988.00 |
| Ages 13–50 | $1,976.00 |
| Ages 51–64 | $1,153.00 |
| Ages 65+ (Senior) | $329.00 |
Lifetime Sportsman licenses cover fishing, hunting, and trapping across the entire state with no renewal requirements — a smart long-term investment for serious anglers.
2026 Tennessee Non-Resident Fishing License Fees
| License Type | Duration | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Junior Hunt/Fish Combo (No Big Game) | Annual | $10.00 |
| 7-Day Junior ALL Game | 7 Days | $26.00 |
| Annual Junior ALL Game | Annual | $41.00 |
| Annual Fishing – No Trout | Annual | $49.00 |
| 3-Day Fishing – No Trout | 3 Days | $20.00 |
| 3-Day Fishing – All Species (incl. trout) | 3 Days | $40.00 |
| 10-Day Fishing – No Trout | 10 Days | $30.00 |
| 10-Day Fishing – All Species | 10 Days | $61.00 |
| Annual Fishing – All Species | Annual | $98.00 |
Non-residents visiting for a short trip will find the 3-Day or 10-Day All-Species licenses to be the most practical choices, particularly if trout fishing is on the agenda.
Tennessee Trout Fishing Permits: What You Need to Know
Trout fishing requires an additional permit on top of your base fishing license in most cases. Here’s a full breakdown:
| Permit Type | Duration | Fee | Requires Base License? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Trout Supplemental | Annual | $21.00 | Yes |
| Tellico-Citico Trout Daily | 1 Day | $6.00 | Yes |
| Gatlinburg Trout Daily Permit | 1 Day | $3.00 | Yes |
| Gatlinburg Trout 1-Day License | 1 Day | $11.00 | No |
| Gatlinburg Trout 3-Day Permit | 3 Days | $9.00 | Yes |
| South Holston Reservoir Supplemental | Annual | $20.00 | Yes (residents only) |
The 1-Day Gatlinburg Trout License ($11) is the only permit that stands on its own — it lets you fish within Gatlinburg city waters for one full day without purchasing a separate base license. All other permits require an active base fishing license.
Special Area & TWRA State Lake Permits
Certain Tennessee waters require additional permits regardless of your license type. These apply to both residents and non-residents unless otherwise noted:
| Permit Type | Duration | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| TWRA State Lake Fishing Permit – Daily | 1 Day | $6.00 |
| TWRA State Lake Fishing Permit – Annual | Annual | $48.00 |
| Bedford Lake Daily Permit | 1 Day | $6.00 |
Sportsman License holders are exempt from these special area permits, making that $165 annual license an efficient all-in-one solution for frequent anglers who fish across multiple water bodies.
Tennessee Disability & Reduced-Fee Fishing Licenses
Tennessee offers permanent reduced-fee licenses at just $10.00 for qualifying residents with disabilities. Eligible groups include:
- Legally blind residents
- Residents permanently confined to a wheelchair
- Individuals with intellectual disabilities (as defined under TCA 33-1-101)
- Those receiving SSI benefits due to intellectual disability
- Disabled veterans — either 30% war service or 100% service-connected disability
- People with documented mental challenges
These lifetime licenses must be applied for in person at the TWRA Nashville regional office. They are not equivalent to a Sportsman License and may still require specific location-based permits.
How to Buy a Tennessee Fishing License in 2026: 5 Easy Methods
Buying a license has never been more straightforward. Here are all the ways you can purchase one:
| Purchase Method | Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Online – GoOutDoorsTennessee.com | Official state-authorized portal | Fastest option; instant digital license |
| TWRA On The Go App | Mobile app available on iOS and Android | License accessible directly on your phone |
| Licensed Retail Vendors | Walmart, sporting goods stores, tackle shops | Available across the state |
| County Clerk Offices | Any Tennessee county clerk can issue licenses | Good option without internet access |
| TWRA Regional Offices | Four regional offices across the state | Required for Sportsman and Disability licenses |
Key reminder: You cannot buy an Annual Sportsman License online or through retail vendors. It must be purchased at a TWRA regional office or by calling the Nashville office at 615-781-6500. Reduced-fee Permanent Disability Licenses are also Nashville-office-only purchases.
Residency Requirements: Who Qualifies as a Tennessee Resident?
The following individuals qualify for resident-rate licenses, even if they weren’t born in Tennessee:
- Persons with a valid Tennessee driver’s license or state ID
- Non-driving residents who have lived in Tennessee for 90 consecutive days
- Active-duty military stationed in Tennessee
- Students enrolled in a Tennessee educational institution
- Non-residents who were born in Tennessee (must complete the Native Tennessean Annual License Application)
Updated 2025–2026 Tennessee Fishing Regulations You Must Know
TWRA has implemented several regulation changes for the current license year. These directly affect where and how you can fish. Plan your trips accordingly and check the Tennessee fishing season dates before you head out.
Black Bass Regulations by Region (2025–2026)
| Reservoir / Water Body | Daily Creel Limit | Minimum Length |
|---|---|---|
| Pickwick Reservoir | 5 fish (all species combined) | 15 inches |
| Watts Bar Reservoir | 5 fish | 15 inches |
| Chilhowee Reservoir | 5 fish | 15 inches |
| Ft. Loudoun Reservoir | 5 fish | 15 inches |
| Tellico Reservoir | 5 fish | 15 inches |
| Guntersville, Nickajack, Chickamauga | 5 combined (Largemouth: 15-inch min; Smallmouth/Spotted/Alabama: no min) | Varies |
| Parksville Reservoir | 5 Largemouth (15-in min); no limit on Smallmouth/Spotted/Alabama | 15″ (LMB only) |
| Tellico River | 5 fish combined | No minimum |
| Davy Crockett Lake | 10 Largemouth per day; only 1 over 18 inches | No minimum (except 1 over 18″) |
Standardized 15-inch black bass minimum is now in effect across most major Tennessee reservoirs — a significant change directly impacting bass anglers statewide.
Other Notable 2025–2026 Regulation Updates
| Water Body / Species | Updated Rule |
|---|---|
| Cherokee Reservoir – Striped Bass / Hybrid Striped Bass | Closed fishing zone: July 1 – September 15 |
| Gatlinburg – West Prong Little Pigeon River (Free Fishing Day) | Closed to anglers 16+ until 11 a.m. on June 6, 2026 |
| Lake Halford – Crappie | 20 per day; only 5 fish over 12 inches may be harvested |
| Marrowbone Lake – Largemouth Bass | 10 per day; no length limit |
Bobby Wilson Free Fishing Day & Week 2026
June 6, 2026 is Bobby Wilson Free Fishing Day — one of the most popular annual events in Tennessee’s outdoor calendar. On this day, anyone can fish any public water in Tennessee without a license, regardless of age or residency. Additionally, all children 15 and younger can fish license-free throughout the entire week of June 6–12, 2026.
These events apply to:
- All public waters
- TWRA agency-owned and operated lakes
- State park fishing facilities
Private pay-to-fish operations may still charge their own fees, so confirm with individual venues before assuming it’s free.
Tennessee Fishing License Compared to Neighboring States
If you fish near state borders or travel frequently, it’s worth comparing license structures. For example, anglers who fish both sides of the border should be aware that a Kentucky fishing license is entirely separate and required for any fishing in Kentucky waters — even if you hold a valid Tennessee license. Reciprocal agreements do not currently exist between the two states.
General Rules Every Tennessee Angler Must Follow in 2026
Beyond licensing, here are the core rules every angler must follow:
- Carry your license at all times while fishing — wildlife officers can request it
- Licenses are non-transferable — they cannot be shared or loaned to another person
- Providing false information to obtain a license is a Class A misdemeanor punishable by fines and license revocation
- Electronic licenses displayed on your smartphone are fully legal and accepted by TWRA officers
- Bag limits and size limits apply even to license-exempt anglers — exemptions only waive the purchase requirement
- Crayfish and salamanders also fall under fishing regulations — a license is required to take them
Quick Reference: Tennessee Fishing License at a Glance
| Scenario | Recommended License | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Resident, fishing all species statewide | Combo Hunt/Fish + Trout Supplemental | $33 + $21 = $54 |
| Resident, fishing local county waters only | County of Residence License | $10 |
| Resident, one-day trip (no trout) | 1-Day Fishing – No Trout | $6 |
| Non-resident, weekend trip (all species) | 3-Day Fishing – All Species | $40 |
| Non-resident, full week (all species) | 10-Day Fishing – All Species | $61 |
| Non-resident, full year (all species) | Annual Fishing – All Species | $98 |
| Senior resident (65+), full hunting & fishing | Annual Senior Sportsman | $49 |
| Youth angler (ages 13–15) | Junior Hunt/Fish/Trap | $9 |
| Heavy user (hunting + fishing + trapping) | Annual Sportsman | $165 |
| Day trip to Gatlinburg city waters (trout) | 1-Day Gatlinburg Trout License | $11 |
For the complete official fee schedule and to purchase your license directly, visit the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency official license portal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Does a Tennessee fishing license cover trout fishing?
A: No. Most base fishing licenses do not cover trout. You need to add an Annual Trout Supplemental permit ($21) or purchase a license specifically marked “All Species.” The exception is the 1-Day Gatlinburg Trout License ($11), which covers trout in Gatlinburg city waters without a base license.
Q: How long is a Tennessee fishing license valid?
A: Most licenses are valid for 365 days from the date of purchase — not from January 1. So if you buy in March, your license runs through the following March.
Q: Can I show my Tennessee fishing license on my phone?
A: Yes. TWRA fully accepts electronic licenses displayed on a smartphone or printed at home. The GoOutDoorsTennessee portal lets you reprint your license as many times as needed.
Q: What happens if I fish without a license in Tennessee?
A: Fishing without a valid license in Tennessee is a Class C misdemeanor, which can result in fines and potential license revocation. It’s simply not worth the risk when a basic license starts at $6.
Q: Can I use my Tennessee fishing license in another state?
A: No. Each state issues its own fishing licenses and they are not valid in other states. If you’re fishing near a border, make sure you have the correct license for each state you fish in.
Q: Does a child under 13 need any kind of fishing permit in Tennessee?
A: No. Residents and non-residents under the age of 13 are completely exempt from holding a fishing license of any kind. They still need to follow all other fishing regulations, including size and bag limits.
Q: Where can I buy a Sportsman License in Tennessee?
A: The Annual Sportsman License is not available online or at retail stores. It must be purchased at one of the four TWRA regional offices or by calling the Nashville TWRA office at 615-781-6500.
Q: Is there a free fishing day in Tennessee in 2026?
A: Yes — Bobby Wilson Free Fishing Day falls on June 6, 2026. No license is required for anyone to fish public waters that day. Kids 15 and under also fish free all week from June 6–12 during Free Fishing Week.
Q: Do I need a license to fish on my own property in Tennessee?
A: No. Landowners, their spouses, children, and children’s spouses are exempt from license requirements when fishing on their own farmland, as long as they are Tennessee residents.