Fishing is a beloved pastime in the Keystone State, with its 86,000 miles of rivers and streams, 4,000 lakes, and robust fish populations. But before you can cast your line in Pennsylvania’s waters, you’ll need to obtain a valid fishing license. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about getting a Pennsylvania fishing license, from who needs one to where you can buy it.
Who Needs a Pennsylvania Fishing License?
In Pennsylvania, anyone aged 16 and older needs a valid fishing license to fish in the state’s waterways. This applies to both residents and non-residents, even if you’re fishing with a guide or charter. There are a few exceptions:
- Pennsylvania residents on leave from active military duty outside the state can fish without a license if they carry proof of residency and military status.
- On designated “Fish for Free Days” (Memorial Day and Independence Day), anyone can fish without a license.
- Certain disabled veterans and former prisoners of war may qualify for free licenses.
In addition to a regular fishing license, you’ll need special permits for activities like trout fishing, fishing in Lake Erie and its tributaries, and participating in fishing tournaments.
Types of Pennsylvania Fishing Licenses
Pennsylvania offers a variety of fishing license options to cater to anglers’ needs:
Resident Licenses
- Annual Resident Fishing License (ages 16-64)
- Senior Resident Annual Fishing License (ages 65 and up)
- Senior Resident Lifetime Fishing License (ages 65 and up)
- 1-Day Resident Fishing License
- Reduced Fee License for Disabled Veterans
- Free License for Disabled Veterans
- Free License for Former Prisoners of War
Non-Resident Licenses
- Annual Non-Resident Fishing License
- 1-Day Tourist Fishing License
- 3-Day Tourist Fishing License
- 7-Day Tourist Fishing License
- Non-Resident Student Annual Fishing License
Additional Permits and Stamps
- Trout Permit (required for trout fishing)
- Lake Erie Permit (required for fishing in Lake Erie, Presque Isle Bay, and their tributaries)
- Combination Trout/Lake Erie Permit
- Mentored Youth Permit (for anglers under 16)
- Voluntary Youth Fishing License (for anglers under 16)
- Voluntary Habitat/Waterways Conservation Stamp
- Voluntary Bass Stamp
- Voluntary Musky Stamp
- Voluntary Wild Trout and Enhanced Waters Stamp
License Fees
License fees vary depending on the type of license and the duration. As of 2024, here are some of the most common license fees:
- Annual Resident Fishing License: $27.97
- Senior Resident Annual Fishing License: $14.47
- Senior Resident Lifetime Fishing License: $86.97
- Annual Non-Resident Fishing License: $60.97
- 1-Day Tourist Fishing License: $31.97
- Trout Permit: $14.97
- Lake Erie Permit: $9.97
- Combination Trout/Lake Erie Permit: $20.97
These fees include the issuing agent fee of $1.00 and a $0.97 transaction fee. For a complete list of current license fees, visit the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission website.
Where to Buy a Pennsylvania Fishing License
You have several options for purchasing a Pennsylvania fishing license:
Online
The most convenient way to buy a fishing license is through the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission’s online licensing system, HuntFishPA (www.huntfish.pa.gov). You can purchase licenses, permits, and stamps 24/7 from the comfort of your home. Just print out your license or save it on your mobile device, and you’re ready to fish.
In-Person
You can buy a fishing license at more than 700 issuing agents across the state, including bait and tackle shops, sporting goods stores, and some county treasurer’s offices. To find a license issuing agent near you, use the PFBC’s “Issuing Agent Locator” tool on their website.
By Phone
Call the PFBC’s toll-free number (877-707-4085) to purchase a fishing license over the phone. Have your payment information ready, and be prepared to provide your Social Security number for identification purposes.
Residency Requirements
To qualify for a resident fishing license, you must be a bona fide resident of Pennsylvania. This means you must maintain a permanent place of abode (home) in the state and intend to return there whenever you’re away. When purchasing a resident license, you may need to provide proof of residency, such as:
- Valid Pennsylvania driver’s license
- Valid Pennsylvania non-driver photo ID card
- Previous year’s Pennsylvania income tax return
- Previous year’s local earned income tax return
- Current Pennsylvania voter registration card
Non-residents, including students attending school in Pennsylvania but maintaining a primary residence elsewhere, must purchase a non-resident or tourist license.
Military Personnel
Active-duty military personnel stationed in Pennsylvania under permanent change of station (PCS) orders for 6 months or more can purchase a resident fishing license with proper documentation. All other military personnel must obtain a non-resident or tourist license. Certain active-duty military personnel are exempt from needing a Pennsylvania fishing license if they are:
- A bona fide Pennsylvania resident
- On active duty and stationed outside of Pennsylvania
- On authorized leave in Pennsylvania
While fishing, these individuals must carry proof of their Pennsylvania residency, out-of-state assignment, and leave status.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do Pennsylvania fishing licenses expire?
Annual fishing licenses, including multi-year licenses, are valid from December 1 of the year purchased through December 31 of the following year. Tourist licenses (1-day, 3-day, and 7-day) expire at midnight on the last day the license is valid for.
Can I replace a lost or damaged fishing license?
Yes, you can replace a lost or damaged fishing license either online through the HuntFishPA system for free or by visiting an issuing agent for a $6.97 replacement fee.
Do I need a trout permit if I’m not keeping the trout I catch?
Yes, you need a trout permit if you intend to fish in stocked trout waters during the closed season (March 1 through the opening day of trout season) or in any Class A Wild Trout Waters or Wilderness Trout Streams year-round, even if you’re practicing catch-and-release.
Do I need a fishing license to assist a child or disabled person while fishing?
An adult assisting a child or a person with certain physical or mental disabilities may do so without a fishing license as long as the child or disabled person remains within arms reach, is actively involved in the fishing activity, and has a valid license (if required).
Additional Resources
For more information on Pennsylvania fishing licenses, regulations, and fishing opportunities, check out these resources:
- Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) website: www.fishandboat.com
- PFBC Fishing Regulations & Laws: https://www.fishandboat.com/Fish/FishingRegulations/Pages/default.aspx
- PFBC “Where to Fish” Interactive Map: https://pfbc.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=b8fc2b0c90d64cd8b9a8f956a7af3c6e
You can also contact the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission directly: Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission
1601 Elmerton Avenue
P.O. Box 67000
Harrisburg, PA 17106-7000
Phone: (717) 705-7800
Email: ra-be@pa.gov
Get Licensed and Get Fishing!
With its diverse waterways and abundant fish populations, Pennsylvania offers incredible fishing opportunities for anglers of all skill levels. By obtaining the proper fishing license and following the state’s fishing regulations, you can enjoy this rewarding outdoor activity while helping to support conservation efforts that keep Pennsylvania’s fisheries healthy and thriving for generations to come.
So get your license, grab your gear, and head out to explore the amazing fishing that the Keystone State has to offer!
