As a senior citizen in Tennessee, you may be wondering about the fishing license options available to you and the associated costs. In 2024, the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) offers several senior fishing license types, each with its own benefits and price tag. Let’s explore the details.
Annual Senior Citizen Hunt/Fish/Trap License
The Annual Senior Citizen Hunt/Fish/Trap License is available to Tennessee residents who have reached their 65th birthday. This license can be purchased from any license agent and requires a valid Tennessee driver’s license or proof of age and residency. The cost of this license is $4.00 in 2024.
With this license, you do not need to purchase any supplemental state licenses. However, you will need to purchase WMA permits separately if you plan to fish on Wildlife Management Areas. Additionally, fees may apply when applying for quota hunt permits and “leftover” permits.
Permanent Senior Citizen Hunt/Fish/Trap License
The Permanent Senior Citizen Hunt/Fish/Trap License is another option available to Tennessee residents aged 65 and older. This license can be purchased from any license agent for a one-time fee of $49.00 in 2024.
Similar to the Annual Senior Citizen Hunt/Fish/Trap License, the Permanent Senior Citizen Hunt/Fish/Trap License does not require any supplemental state licenses. However, you will need to purchase WMA permits separately, and fees may apply for quota hunt permits and “leftover” permits.
Annual Senior Citizen Sportsman License
The Annual Senior Citizen Sportsman License is an all-inclusive license valid for hunting, trapping, and sport fishing without any state supplemental licenses or non-quota permits. It allows holders to apply for quota permits at no additional fee. This license can be purchased from all license agents for $49.00 in 2024.
Lifetime Sportsman License (65 years old)
For seniors aged 65 and older, Tennessee offers a Lifetime Sportsman License. This all-inclusive license is valid for hunting, trapping, and sport fishing without any supplemental state licenses or permits. It also allows holders to apply for quota permits at no additional fee. The cost of this license is $329.00 in 2024.
To obtain a Lifetime Sportsman License, you can call your local TWRA office for an application or download an application from their website.
Reduced-Fee Permanent Licenses
In addition to the senior fishing licenses mentioned above, Tennessee offers reduced-fee permanent licenses to residents with certain disabilities. These licenses cost only $10.00 and are available to residents who are legally blind, permanently confined to a wheelchair, intellectually disabled, receiving SSI benefits due to intellectual disability, or disabled veterans with a 30% war service or 100% service-connected disability.
These licenses are not the same as a “Sportsman” license, and you may be required to purchase additional permits depending on the location.
Where to Purchase Senior Fishing Licenses
You can purchase your Tennessee senior fishing license in several ways:
1. Online through the Go Outdoors Tennessee portal
2. From licensed vendors, such as hardware stores, tackle shops, and Walmarts across the state
3. From county clerks
4. From a TWRA office
Keep in mind that Sportsman Licenses can only be purchased directly from one of the four regional TWRA offices or by calling the Nashville office at 615-781-6500. For reduced-fee Permanent Licenses, you’ll need to apply at the TWRA office in Nashville.
When purchasing your license, you’ll need your social security number and some form of identification to confirm your status as a Tennessee resident or senior citizen.
In conclusion, Tennessee offers several senior fishing license options in 2024, each with its own benefits and costs. Whether you choose an annual license, a permanent license, or a lifetime license, you’ll be able to enjoy the state’s abundant fishing opportunities while supporting wildlife conservation efforts. Remember to always have your license with you when fishing and to follow all applicable regulations and catch limits.