Tennessee Hunting & Fishing Licenses
Complete guide to Tennessee hunting and fishing licenses for 2026. Get current prices, purchase online, and learn about TWRA's digital license requirements.
Quick Facts
Digital License
Accepted
License Year
365 days from purchase - 365 days from purchase
Agency
TWRA
Draw System
bonus
HIP Required
Migratory birds
Last updated: January 29, 2026
Tennessee License Pricing
Compare resident and non-resident prices for hunting and fishing licenses.
| License Type | Resident | Non-Resident |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Hunting/Fishing Basic combination hunting and fishing license (28% increase effective July 2025) | $42.00 | $121.00 |
| Sportsman License All-inclusive license with hunting, fishing, and all game tags | $165.00 | $550.00 |
| Big Game Permit Required for deer, turkey, and bear hunting | $41.00 | $305.00 |
| Trout Stamp Required for trout fishing statewide | $21.00 | $21.00 |
Prices are for annual licenses unless otherwise noted. Additional stamps and endorsements may be required.
Go Outdoors Tennessee
Digital licenses accepted via Go Outdoors Tennessee app. Wildlife officers can verify licenses electronically.
GoOutdoors platform shared with multiple southeastern states
Hunter Passport
All your licenses, one app
Tired of managing multiple state apps? Hunter Passport stores all your Tennessee licenses alongside every other state - and works completely offline.
- Works offline - no signal needed
- Supports all 50 states
- Quick Display for game wardens
Store up to 2 licenses free. Unlimited with Premium.
Hunter Passport is not affiliated with or endorsed by any state wildlife agency.
Tennessee Tag Draws & Lotteries
bonus Point System
Points improve your odds but don't guarantee a tag. More points = better odds in the random draw.
Draw Species
Application Deadline
April (elk)
Tennessee's elk herd in the Cumberland Plateau region offers limited hunting opportunities through lottery.
Tennessee Hunting Quirks & Tips
Unique rules and insider knowledge for hunting and fishing in Tennessee.
365-Day License
importantTennessee licenses are now valid for 365 days from the date of purchase, giving hunters maximum flexibility.
28% Fee Increase (July 2025)
importantTWRA implemented a 28% fee increase effective July 2025 to fund conservation programs. First increase in over a decade.
Elk Hunting Lottery
infoTennessee reintroduced elk in 2000. Limited bull and cow elk permits available through competitive lottery.
Cherokee National Forest
infoOver 650,000 acres of public hunting land in the Cherokee National Forest provides excellent deer, turkey, and bear hunting.
Two Deer Bag Limit Changes
importantBag limits and antler restrictions vary significantly by county. Check unit-specific regulations before hunting.
Hunting Tools for Tennessee
Free calculators and planning tools to help you hunt smarter in Tennessee.
Legal Shooting Hours
Calculate legal hunting start and end times based on sunrise/sunset
Hunting License Cost
Compare hunting and fishing license costs for Tennessee and residency
Hunter Education
Find hunter education requirements, exemptions, and course providers for Tennessee
Hunting Season Dates
Find hunting season dates for Tennessee, species, and weapon type
Bag Limit & Size Limit
Find daily, possession, and size limits for Tennessee and species
Tennessee Hunting & Fishing FAQ
How much does a Tennessee hunting license cost?
Tennessee resident annual hunting/fishing combination licenses cost $42. Non-residents pay $121. The Sportsman license at $165 (resident) includes all hunting, fishing, and game permits. A 28% fee increase took effect July 2025.
Does Tennessee accept digital hunting licenses?
Yes, Tennessee accepts digital licenses displayed through the Go Outdoors Tennessee app. Wildlife officers can verify your license electronically.
When does the Tennessee hunting license expire?
Tennessee licenses are valid for 365 days from the date of purchase, giving you a full year regardless of when you buy.
Can I hunt elk in Tennessee?
Yes, but only through a limited lottery system. Tennessee has a growing elk herd in the Cumberland Plateau region. Apply through the TWRA lottery for a chance at a permit.
Do I need HIP registration to hunt in Tennessee?
Yes, HIP certification is required for hunting migratory game birds in Tennessee. It's free and can be completed when purchasing your license.
Store Your Tennessee License in Hunter Passport
Keep your Tennessee hunting and fishing licenses alongside all your other states. Works offline, displays instantly, never fumble for paper again.