Alligator Hunting
Tennessee Alligator
Hunting Tags 2026
Tag requirements, draw system, fees, and season information for alligator hunting in Tennessee. Tennessee has a very limited alligator hunting season in select western counties bordering the Mississippi River. The state's population is small and confined to the westernmost part of the state, where alligators have expanded northward from neighboring states.
Draw Required
CITES Tag Required
Max 1 Tags/Resident
2026 Tag Quick Facts
Verified 2026
Resident Fee
$50.00
Tag fee post-draw; base hunting license required separately.
Non-Resident Fee
$100.00
Per tag
Draw Required
Yes
Very limited draw; small quota in western county zones only.
Season
Late August – Septem...
Typical period
Step-by-Step
How to Get an Alligator Hunting Tag in Tennessee
1
Purchase a Tennessee Hunting License
A valid state hunting license is required before applying for or receiving alligator tags. Purchase through Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency.
2
Apply for the Draw
Tennessee requires a draw application for alligator tags.
Very limited draw; small quota in western county zones only. Applications are typically submitted in summer for fall seasons. Check Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency's website for current year application deadlines.
3
Receive Your Tag & CITES Documentation
If selected in the draw, you'll receive your alligator tag(s) for $50.00 (resident) and official CITES documentation tags. Maximum 1 tag(s) per resident hunter.
4
Attach CITES Tag at Harvest
Immediately upon harvesting an alligator, attach the CITES documentation tag to the carcass. The tag must remain with the hide and meat through processing and transport. Failure to tag a harvested alligator is a federal violation.
Season Information
2026 Alligator Season in Tennessee
Late August – September (limited western counties)
Requirements
Tennessee Alligator Tag Requirements
Tennessee hunting license required. Season limited to designated western Tennessee counties adjacent to the Mississippi River.
Important Notes
Tennessee-Specific Information
Tennessee's alligator season is one of the most limited in the country, restricted to a small area in the far western part of the state. Verify current season status with TWRA before applying.
Source: Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (www.tn.gov).
Requirements verified 2026. Always confirm current draw dates and tag availability with Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency.