How much does it cost to hunt in Tennessee?

Hunting in Tennessee is a time-honored tradition enjoyed by residents and visitors alike. With its rolling hills, hardwood forests, and plentiful wildlife, the Volunteer State offers something for every type of hunter—from the seasoned sportsman to the first-timer. But before you head into the woods, it's important to understand the costs involved. From licenses and permits to gear and season-specific regulations, here’s a comprehensive breakdown of how much it costs to hunt in Tennessee.

Hunting License Costs in Tennessee

The cost of a hunting license in Tennessee varies depending on your residency status, age, and the type of game you're hunting. Here are the general license fees as of the 2023-2024 season, according to the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA):

Resident Annual Hunting License: $34
Nonresident Annual Hunting License: $305
Youth Hunting/Fishing/Furs License (ages 13–15): $9
Junior Hunt/Fish License (under age 13): No license required for hunting small game

Note that the basic hunting license does not cover big game hunting or migratory bird hunting. For those activities, additional permits are required.

Required Permits and Tags

If you plan to pursue deer, turkey, or other big game in Tennessee, you'll need to purchase supplemental permits in addition to your base hunting license. Here's what you can expect to pay:

Big Game Supplemental License (Resident): $33
Big Game Supplemental License (Nonresident): Included with nonresident license packages
Deer Permit: Included in big game license
Spring or Fall Turkey Permit: Included in big game license
Waterfowl Permit: $2 (plus federal duck stamp, $25)
WMA Permit (if hunting on wildlife management areas): $62 (annual)

You can purchase licenses and permits online through TWRA’s Go Outdoors Tennessee portal.

Lifetime Licenses

Tennessee also offers lifetime hunting and fishing licenses for residents. Though expensive upfront, they can save money in the long term and include all needed licenses and permits:

Under age 3: $320
Ages 3–12: $659
Ages 13–50: $1,976
Ages 51–64: $1,153
Ages 65 and over: $329

Best Time of Year to Hunt in Tennessee

Hunting seasons in Tennessee vary by species. Here's a quick overview of the most popular seasons:

Deer: Archery begins in late September, muzzleloader in November, and gun season typically stretches from mid-November through early January.

Turkey: Spring season occurs in April and early May. Fall archery and shotgun seasons occur from September through early January.

Waterfowl: Late November to January

Small Game (squirrel, rabbit, etc.): Typically August through February

The TWRA provides a full hunt calendar every year—check the current regulations to plan effectively: TWRA Hunting Seasons.

Hunting Gear Costs

Costs can add up quickly when it comes to gear, but you don't have to spend a fortune to get started. Here's a basic rundown:

Hunting Rifle or Bow: $300–$800 for a quality entry-level model
Ammunition or Arrows: $20–$60 depending on caliber and quantity
Blaze Orange (required for gun seasons): $15–$50 for a vest and cap
Camouflage Clothing: $100–$300 depending on the brand and season
Tree Stand/Blind: $100–$300
Field Dressing Tools and Game Bags: $50–$100

Tennessee’s weather can fluctuate. Layers and waterproof options are great choices for mid-to-late season hunts. Be sure to also invest in scent blockers and quality boots if stalking deer or turkey.

Where to Hunt in Tennessee

Whether you're looking for private land or public areas, Tennessee offers ample hunting opportunities:

Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs): Operated by TWRA—some require permits, others are free to access. Explore options here: Tennessee WMAs
Public Hunting Areas: National forests and state parks often allow limited hunting with proper permits.
Private Land: Always obtain landowner permission. Leasing land for the season is also a common practice in Tennessee, costing anywhere from $300 to over $1,000 depending on terrain and game species.

Final Thoughts

So, how much does it cost to hunt in Tennessee? For residents, a season of hunting (small game and big game) generally runs between $70–$200, depending on licenses and permit combinations. Add gear and travel, and a reasonable budget to get started might be around $500–$800. Nonresidents can expect higher costs due to licensing, but the rich opportunities in Tennessee’s wildlands often make it well worth the price.

Whether you're bagging a buck in the hills of East Tennessee or calling in a gobbler on the Cumberland Plateau, there’s nothing quite like hunting in the Volunteer State. Follow regulations, plan your seasons wisely, and gear up safely—you’ll be well on your way to an unforgettable experience in Tennessee’s great outdoors.