Tennessee Hunting and Fishing License Fees Could Increase Under New Proposal

Tennessee outdoors enthusiasts may have to pay between 12% and 28% more for hunting and fishing licenses beginning in 2025. (Photo by Paul Winterman)

Tennessee hunters and anglers could end up paying more in license fees if a new proposal from the Tennessee Fish & Wildlife Commission passes.

The proposal would see fees rise between 12% and 28% in 2025, according to the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA).

WJHL.com reports the fee increases were discussed at the September commission meeting, in addition to a proposal to simplify the fee structure.

During the commission meeting, the following fee increases were proposed:

• Boating registration fee: 22% increase

• Majority of hunting, fishing licenses: 28% increase

• Sportsmen and Lifetime license fees: 12% increase

According to state law, the commission can increase license fees in line with the consumer price index inflation, which has risen 31.6% since the last fee increase.

“The Commission is giving this challenge our full force. Hunters and anglers who fund conservation with their purchases are our most important constituents,” said Commission Chairman Jimmy Granbery. “However, we must take strong action to continue protecting and preserving wildlife and providing the services sportsmen want from the agency.”

The commission also proposed a simplification of license structure regulations. The proposal would replace weapon-type supplemental licenses (such as those for gun, archery, or muzzleloader) with species-type supplemental licenses (such as deer, elk, bear, turkey, and waterfowl).

The TWRA says the trout supplemental license would also be rolled into the base hunting and fishing combination license, meaning no additional license would be needed. Multiple Wildlife Management Area permits would be combined into one single permit.

Public comment will be gathered on the proposed license fee changes from October through November at the public notice section of the TWRA website. The commission will vote on the proposed changes at its December meeting. If passed, the fee changes will take effect July 1, 2025.