NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WOKI)– Tennessee hunters seeking to hunt white-tailed deer over bait will soon be required to purchase a new state-issued license under a law approved by the General Assembly last year.
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency announced the Deer Bait Privilege License will be available beginning July 22, 2026, through GoOutdoorsTennessee.com and the TWRA On the Go App.
The license will cost $50 for Tennessee residents and $100 for non-residents.
The requirement stems from Public Chapter 444, legislation approved during the 2025 Tennessee General Assembly and signed into law by Governor Bill Lee. The measure legalized deer hunting over bait under specific conditions while authorizing TWRA to administer the licensing program.
License Required for All Hunters
TWRA officials said anyone wishing to hunt white-tailed deer over bait must purchase the Deer Bait Privilege License, regardless of whether they hold a lifetime license or qualify for other licensing exemptions.
The license is valid for 365 days from the date of purchase and applies only to private property, including land that is owned or leased by the hunter. The permit also covers multiple private properties to which the hunter has legal access.
Restrictions Remain in Place
Although the law allows deer baiting in certain circumstances, significant restrictions continue to apply.
Deer baiting is not permitted:
- On Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs)
- Within Tennessee’s Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) Management Zone
- In counties where CWD has been detected
TWRA maintains a list of affected counties and management zones on its website.
The agency also noted that regulations govern the type and quantity of bait hunters may use, along with other rules concerning bait site placement and management.
Disease Concerns Highlighted
Wildlife officials emphasized that feeding and baiting animals can increase the risk of disease transmission among wildlife populations.
TWRA warned that concentrating deer and other wildlife around feeding locations can contribute to the spread of diseases including:
- Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD)
- Bovine tuberculosis
- Brucellosis
The agency said these diseases can affect wildlife populations and may also create risks for livestock and domestic animals.
Officials also cautioned hunters about improperly stored feed, noting that certain grains can develop aflatoxins that are especially harmful to species such as wild turkeys and quail.
In addition, sudden consumption of large amounts of grain can lead to digestive issues known as acidosis, which can sometimes be fatal to wildlife.
Additional Wildlife Concerns
TWRA says bait sites can attract more than deer.
Officials noted that feed can draw raccoons, feral hogs and Tennessee’s growing black bear population, potentially increasing property damage, nuisance complaints and habitat impacts.
The agency is encouraging hunters to carefully consider those risks when deciding whether to use bait and to follow all regulations established under the new law.
TWRA says its mission remains protecting and conserving Tennessee’s fish and wildlife resources while promoting safe and responsible outdoor recreation throughout the state.
