In Tennessee, fishing regulations are in place to protect the state’s fish populations and ensure that everyone can enjoy the sport. However, there are certain exceptions where anglers can fish without a license. In this article, we’ll explore the various scenarios where you can fish for free in Tennessee in 2024.
Free Fishing Day and Week
Every year, the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) hosts a “Free Fishing Day” and “Free Fishing Week.” In 2024, the Free Fishing Day will be held on the second Saturday in June, allowing anyone to fish without a license for the day. The Free Fishing Week, which coincides with the Free Fishing Day, allows children 15 and younger to fish for free in Tennessee’s public waters, agency-owned and operated lakes, and Tennessee State Parks for the entire week.
Exceptions for Certain Age Groups
In Tennessee, there are specific age groups that are exempt from needing a fishing license. Children under the age of 13, both residents and non-residents, can fish without a license in Tennessee’s public waters. Additionally, residents born before March 1, 1926, do not need a fishing license, but they must carry proof of age and residency to show to a wildlife officer if requested.
Landowner Exemption
Landowners, their spouses, and children who fish on their own farmland that is owned by an individual or a family are exempt from needing a fishing license. Tenants, their spouses, and dependent children who fish on farmland owned by an individual or a family are also exempt, as long as they are residents of Tennessee, actually reside on the land, and have the permission of the landowner to fish.
Military Personnel on Leave
Active military personnel on official leave are exempt from needing a fishing license in Tennessee, but they must carry a copy of their leave orders with them while fishing.
Fishing License Requirements
Except for the exemptions mentioned above, anyone 13 years of age or older, both residents and non-residents, must have a valid fishing license to fish in Tennessee’s public waters. Fishing licenses can be purchased online through the Go Outdoors Tennessee portal, from local agents such as hardware stores and Walmarts, from county clerks, or directly from a TWRA office.
It’s important to note that even if you don’t need a license to fish, you still need to abide by other fishing regulations, such as catch and size limits. Additionally, certain bodies of water may require additional permits, such as the Tellico-Citico permit for specific waters within the Cherokee National Forest.
In conclusion, while most anglers in Tennessee need a fishing license, there are several exceptions where you can fish for free in 2024. Whether it’s during the Free Fishing Day and Week, for certain age groups, landowners, military personnel on leave, or children under 13, it’s essential to understand the regulations and fish responsibly to protect Tennessee’s aquatic resources.