During its final meeting of 2024, convened at the Ducks Unlimited National Headquarters, the Tennessee Fish and Wildlife Commission (TFWC) reached a consensus on several rule amendments aimed at adjusting licensing fees and simplifying the overall license structure. The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) relies heavily on federal funding and license sales, which together constitute over 70% of its operational budget. This financial reliance has become increasingly strained due to a significant operational deficit, exacerbated by a staggering 31.6 percent rise in the Consumer Price Index since the last comprehensive increase in license fees back in 2015.
In response to these economic pressures, the newly approved regulations will see a 28% increase in the cost of most hunting and fishing licenses, while boat registration fees will rise by 22%. Additionally, prices for lifetime and sportsman licenses will see a 12% hike. The Commission also decided to implement a gradual increase in permit fees over the next three years, offering various options for daily, three-day, seven-day, and annual licenses. This decision followed public feedback concerning the proposed pricing for Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) access in the North Cumberland Wildlife Management Area.
The changes in pricing are set to take effect on July 1, 2025. Alongside these adjustments, there have been several modifications to the regulations governing different hunting styles. For those seeking further details, the TWRA website serves as a comprehensive resource for updated information.
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