As the summer of 2024 approaches, many families in Tennessee are gearing up for a season of outdoor fun, with fishing being a popular activity for both kids and adults. However, when it comes to fishing licenses, it’s important to understand the regulations and requirements set by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA). One common question that arises is whether a 10-year-old needs a fishing license in Tennessee.
Tennessee Fishing License Requirements
According to the TWRA, anyone who takes fish or attempts to take fish (including crayfish) by any method or assists someone else in doing so must have a valid fishing license. However, there are some exceptions to this rule.
One of the key exceptions is that children under the age of 13, whether they are residents or non-residents of Tennessee, do not need a fishing license. This means that a 10-year-old can enjoy fishing in Tennessee’s lakes, rivers, and streams without the need for a license.
It’s important to note that while a 10-year-old doesn’t need a license, they still need to follow all other fishing regulations, such as catch and size limits. Additionally, if they are fishing on certain bodies of water, such as Reelfoot Lake, they may need to purchase a special permit.
Other Exceptions to the Fishing License Requirement
In addition to children under 13, there are a few other groups of people who are exempt from needing a fishing license in Tennessee:
- Landowners, their spouses, and children who fish on their own farmland
- Tenants, their spouses, and dependent children who fish on farmland they rent and have permission from the landowner
- Resident grandchildren (under 16) and great-grandchildren (under 16) who fish on farmland owned by their resident grandparents or great-grandparents
- First cousins who own farmland jointly or in common, and their children
- Military personnel on official leave, carrying a copy of their leave orders
- Residents born before March 1, 1926
It’s also worth noting that Tennessee offers a “Free Fishing Day” and a “Free Fishing Week” each year, where anyone can fish without a license. In 2024, the Free Fishing Day is scheduled for June 8th, and the Free Fishing Week runs from June 8th to June 14th.
Where to Get a Fishing License in Tennessee
If you’re a Tennessee resident who is 13 or older, or a non-resident who wants to fish in the state, you’ll need to purchase a fishing license. Licenses can be obtained from a variety of sources, including:
- Online through the Go Outdoors Tennessee portal
- At sporting goods stores, hardware stores, and Walmart locations across the state
- From county clerks’ offices
- From TWRA offices
When purchasing a license, you’ll need to provide your social security number and a valid form of identification, such as a driver’s license or state-issued ID.
Tennessee offers a variety of fishing licenses, including one-day, three-day, ten-day, and annual licenses for both residents and non-residents. There are also special licenses available for seniors, disabled individuals, and lifetime sportsman licenses.
Fishing in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
If you plan on fishing in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which straddles the border between Tennessee and North Carolina, you’ll need a valid fishing license from either state. Both Tennessee and North Carolina licenses are accepted within the national park boundaries.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a popular destination for fishing, offering a variety of streams, rivers, and lakes teeming with trout and other species. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, the park provides ample opportunities to enjoy the sport in a beautiful natural setting.