How to Buy a Fishing License in Tennessee

In Tennessee, a license is required if a person will "fish or attempt to take fish (including crayfish) by any method or...assist someone else to do so." This rule does not apply to children under 13 years of age or adults 84 years and older, residents fishing on their own land, tenants fishing on land they rent, and military personnel on leave.

Fishing licenses go on sale each year on February 18 and expire on the last day of February the following year, with the exception of 1 day permits and lifetime licenses. A day pass is $5.50 and the minimum annual resident fishing license is $28. A trout license is an additional fee of $18. Non-resident licenses begin at $16.50 for a 3 day pass. The cost for a lifetime license depends on the person's age, beginning at $200 for a small child, up to $1620 for anyone between 13 and 50 years of age. The blind and those with certain other disabilities can purchase a lifetime license for $10.

Most TN sporting licenses can be purchased online through the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) website, as well at the office of the county clerk, sporting goods and hardware stores, boat docks, and from all TWRA offices. In order to obtain a fishing license online, you must have lived in Tennessee for at least 90 days and have a valid Tennessee driver's license. You also must have a social security number in order to obtain a fishing license. If you are not a Tennessee resident, or if your are a resident, but do not have a TN driver's license, you may go to any license agent location to purchase your fishing permit.

Purchases on the web cost an additional fee of $3.25. You will first be required to give identifying information about yourself, including your name and TN driver's license or SSN, and date of birth. You then choose your license, make your purchase, and print a temporary license for use until your permanent one arrives in the mail. If you lose your fishing permit, a replacement costs $7.00.