What a Tennessee Sportsman License Covers
A Tennessee Sportsman License is a single permit that lets you hunt and fish across the state without buying separate licenses for each activity. It combines a hunting license, fishing license, and the required stamps into one document, making it the most economical choice if you plan to do both. The license is valid for one year from the date of purchase.
The Sportsman License covers freshwater fishing in all public waters, hunting of most game species during their open seasons, and access to state wildlife areas. You still need to follow all bag limits, season dates, and method restrictions for each species — the license itself is permission to participate, not permission to take unlimited game.
This license does not cover saltwater fishing if you fish coastal waters, and it does not include special permits for turkey hunting or waterfowl hunting. Those require separate stamps purchased at the time you buy the Sportsman License or afterward.
Key Takeaways
- A Sportsman License costs less than buying a hunting license and fishing license separately, and covers both activities for one year.
- You can purchase a Sportsman License online through the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency website, by phone, or at authorized vendors across the state.
- Residents pay one price; non-residents pay a higher rate, and some age groups receive discounts or hunt and fish free.
- The license arrives by mail if you order online, so plan ahead if you want to hunt or fish on a specific date.
- You must carry your license and a valid photo ID whenever you hunt or fish, and wildlife officers check both.
Who Can Buy a Sportsman License and at What Cost
Tennessee residents and non-residents can both purchase a Sportsman License. Residents pay one flat rate; non-residents pay significantly more. The exact dollar amounts change each year, so check the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) website for current pricing before you buy.
Certain groups receive discounts or hunt and fish free. Tennessee residents aged 65 and older can purchase a senior license at a reduced rate. Children under 16 can hunt and fish free with a parent or guardian who holds a valid license, though they must still follow all regulations. Military members on active duty and disabled veterans may also may have access to for reduced rates or free licenses — verify your status on the TWRA website or call their customer service line.
If you are not sure whether you count as a resident for licensing purposes, the TWRA defines residency based on where you maintain a permanent home and hold a driver's license. Seasonal residents and people who moved recently should contact TWRA directly to confirm their status before purchasing.
How to Buy a Sportsman License Online
The fastest way to get a Sportsman License is through the TWRA website at tn.gov/twra. Go to the licensing section, select "Sportsman License," and follow the checkout process. You will need a valid email address and a payment method — credit card or debit card. The system will ask you to confirm your residency status and provide your date of birth.
After you complete the purchase, the license is sent to you by mail. Delivery typically takes five to ten business days, depending on your location. Your license is not valid until it arrives and you sign it. If you need to hunt or fish before the mail arrives, you can print a temporary receipt from the website that serves as proof of purchase, though some wildlife officers may ask to see the actual license as well — call ahead if you are unsure.
Keep your confirmation email until the physical license arrives. It contains your license number and purchase details, which you may need if there are any questions or if you lose the license before it arrives.
Buying a License in Person or by Phone
You can purchase a Sportsman License by phone by calling the TWRA customer service line. A representative will walk you through the process, take your payment information, and mail the license to you. Phone orders take the same five to ten business days to arrive as online orders.
Authorized vendors across Tennessee — including sporting goods stores, bait and tackle shops, and some Walmart locations — sell licenses over the counter. You walk in, tell the clerk you want a Sportsman License, provide your ID and residency information, pay, and receive the license immediately. This is the only way to get a license the same day you purchase it. Call ahead to confirm the vendor has the license in stock, especially during peak hunting and fishing seasons.
A list of authorized vendors by county is available on the TWRA website. If you live in a rural area, the nearest vendor may be 20 or 30 miles away, so many people choose to order online or by phone instead.
What to Bring When You Hunt or Fish
You must carry your signed Sportsman License and a valid photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or military ID — whenever you hunt or fish. Wildlife officers check both documents, and you can be cited if either is missing or unsigned. Sign your license in ink as soon as it arrives; an unsigned license is not valid.
Keep your license in a waterproof pocket or bag if you are fishing near water. Licenses get damaged easily, and a torn or illegible license can cause problems if an officer stops you. Some people laminate their licenses after signing them, which is allowed and extends their life.
If you lose your license, you can request a replacement through the TWRA website or by phone. Replacement licenses cost a small fee and are mailed to you. In the meantime, you can print a temporary receipt from your online account that may serve as proof of purchase, though you should confirm with TWRA whether this is accepted by wildlife officers in your area.
Seasons, Bag Limits, and Special Permits
A Sportsman License gives you permission to hunt and fish, but it does not override season dates or bag limits. Deer season, duck season, trout season, and bass season all have specific opening and closing dates that change year to year. You must know the dates for the species you are targeting before you go out.
Bag limits — the number of fish or game animals you can take per day — are set by TWRA and vary by species and location. A Sportsman License does not increase your bag limit or extend your season. The TWRA website publishes a hunting guide and fishing guide each year with all current dates, limits, and method restrictions. Download these before you hunt or fish; wildlife officers expect you to know the rules.
Turkey hunting and waterfowl hunting require additional stamps beyond the Sportsman License. You can purchase these stamps when you buy your license online or at a vendor. Saltwater fishing in coastal areas requires a separate saltwater license if you travel to the coast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I buy a Sportsman License if I just moved to Tennessee?
You can buy a resident license once you establish residency, which typically means obtaining a Tennessee driver's license or ID card. If you just moved and have not yet gotten a Tennessee ID, you may need to purchase a non-resident license first. Contact TWRA to confirm your status based on your specific situation.
What happens if a wildlife officer stops me and I do not have my license?
You can be cited for hunting or fishing without a valid license. The fine varies but is typically $100 to $500 depending on the violation. Carry your signed license and photo ID every time you hunt or fish to avoid this.
Does a Sportsman License work in other states?
No. A Tennessee Sportsman License is valid only in Tennessee. If you hunt or fish in another state, you must purchase that state's license. Each state has its own licensing system and regulations.
Can I buy a Sportsman License as a gift for someone else?
You can purchase a license and give it to someone, but the person receiving it must sign it before using it. The license is only valid when signed by the person whose name appears on it. Some vendors and the TWRA website offer gift certificates instead, which let the recipient choose their own license type.
What is the difference between a Sportsman License and a regular hunting or fishing license?
A Sportsman License covers both hunting and fishing in one document and costs less than buying them separately. A regular hunting license covers only hunting; a regular fishing license covers only fishing. Choose the Sportsman License if you do both activities.