Tennessee New Deer Bait Privilege License

The new Deer Bait Privilege License will be available on GoOutdoorsTennessee.com and in the TWRA On the Go App, starting July 22nd, 2026. The cost will be $50 for a resident of Tennessee and $100 for a non-resident. 

Public Chapter #444, allowing hunting over bait for white-tailed deer, was initiated by the General Assembly and signed into law by Governor Bill Lee in the 2025 Legislative Session.

The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency is informing the public that all hunters wishing to hunt white-tailed deer over bait, are required to purchase this license regardless of exemptions, lifetime licenses, and age. It is valid only on private property (owned or leased), across all private properties the hunter may have access to and is valid for 365 days from the date of purchase.

Under the new law, deer baiting is not allowed on Wildlife Management Areas, in the CWD Management Zone, or any CWD-positive county. 

There are specific types and amounts of bait that are authorized and other bait site rules that are in effect. A full list of the regulations for hunting over bait are listed on the TN.Gov Website.