Tennessee to legalize deer baiting on private land starting in 2026

HAMILTON COUNTY, Tenn. (WDEF) —  Starting next year, deer baiting will be legal in Tennessee, but only on private land.

Hunters will have to buy a “baiting privilege” license.

The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency will issue those licenses.

If you live in Tennessee, the licenses will cost you $50.

For out of state residents, that price will double.

The goal is to raise money for the State Wildlife fund.

Alabama and Georgia already have similar programs.

It will likely be August of 2026 before Tennessee hunters can start legally using bait.