With 85,000 miles of rivers, thousands of lakes, and over 100 state parks, the “Keystone State” is home to some of the nation’s most diverse freshwater fishing. To enjoy any of it, you need a Pennsylvania fishing license.
The problem is that the rules can get very confusing sometimes. Today, we’re breaking down all you need to know about PA licenses so you can spend less time reading and more time reeling!
Who needs a Pennsylvania fishing license?
Every angler over the age of 16 needs a license to fish in the state. This applies to residents and non-residents alike, even when fishing with a guide or charter. On top of a regular license, you’ll need an additional permit to fish on Lake Erie, or to take home Salmon or Trout.
This doesn’t apply to PA Residents on leave from active military duty outside the state. Instead, they should carry proof of residency and status in the armed forces (PA driver’s license, military ID, and valid military orders showing the place of assignment and leave status).
“Fish For Free Days” are the only other exception. On the final Sunday in May and on July 4 every year, anglers from all over can fish without any license or permit.
PA Fishing License Cost
There are a variety of licenses available, ranging from a day to a decade and even your entire life. They’re not all available to everybody, though. Here’s a breakdown of the many license types, how much they cost, and who can get them.
| License Type | Resident | Senior Resident | Non-Resident |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-Day | $14.47 | N/A | $31.97 |
| 3-Day | N/A | N/A | $31.97 |
| 7-Day | N/A | N/A | $39.47 |
| Annual | $27.97 | $14.47 | $60.97 |
| 3-Year | $79.97 | $39.47 | $178.97 |
| 5-Year | $131.97 | $64.47 | $296.97 |
| 10-Year | $261.97 | N/A | $591.97 |
| Lifetime | N/A | $86.97 | N/A |
Out-of-staters have access to several short-term licenses perfect for vacations or business trips. Residents don’t get all of these, but they do have the option of a 10-year license. Senior residents (aged 65 and older) can also buy a lifetime permit.
One important thing to note is that 1-Day Licenses aren’t valid between March 15 and April 30. They do, however, cover you to fish on PA’s portion of the Great Lakes, and to keep Salmon and Trout.
Lake Erie and Trout/Salmon Permits
Unless you have a 1-Day License, you’ll need an extra permit to fish in Lake Erie or to keep Salmon and Trout. You can get these individually (Trout Permit is $14.97, Lake Erie Permit is $9.97), or as a combo package covering both Lake Erie and Trout/Salmon for $20.97.
Resident seniors with a Lifetime License get a few more options for these Permits. They last anywhere from 1–10 years and cost as follows:
| Type & Permit Duration | Cost |
|---|---|
| 3-Year Senior Trout Permit | $40.97 |
| 5-Year Senior Trout Permit | $66.97 |
| 10-Year Senior Trout Permit | $131.97 | Senior Lifetime Lake Erie Permit | $9.97 |
Free and Reduced-Fee Licenses
As well as the regular list, some people can get discounted or even cost-free fishing licenses. The following people are entitled to discounted licenses at a cost of $2.97:
- Resident Reservists and National Guards who were deployed overseas for 60 days or more or released early due to injury within the last 24 months.
- Resident veterans who have lost a limb, lost the use of a limb, or are over 60% disabled.
- PA residents who are former prisoners of war (POWs).
As well as this, resident veterans who are blind or certified as 100% disabled are eligible for free a Disabled Veterans License.
You can get these at the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission or county treasurer office. Make sure to bring proof of your status along with a valid ID confirming your residence.
Where can I buy a Pennsylvania fishing license?
You know you need a license, but where should you get it? Simple – just pick up your license in any of the following ways and you’re set:
- In person. Head to any of over 1,300 vendors across the state. Hardware stores, tackle stores, and chains like Walmart usually sell them.
- Online. This is the simplest way to buy a license. It’s valid as soon as you pay, so just print it out and you’re good to go.
- By Phone. You can also buy a license over the phone at 877-707-4085.
When applying for a Pennsylvania fishing license or permit, you must give your social security number. Be sure to have it on hand so that everything runs smoothly.
When do PA fishing licenses expire?
All short-term fishing licenses for tourists end exactly the amount of days after you purchased them. For example, a 3-Day Fishing License bought on a Monday will expire at midnight on the Wednesday into Thursday.
Similarly, the same logic follows with yearly and multi-year licenses. You’ll have up until the end of the final year of validity to fish using that license. So, a 10-Year License bought in 2017 will carry you through until the very last second of December 31, 2026.
Reciprocal Agreements with Other States
Fishing in waters that border other states can be confusing at times. Luckily, Pennsylvania has reached an agreement with many of its neighbors, allowing you to fish in these waters with your PA license:
- Maryland: Along the Conowingo and Youghiogheny Rivers, if fishing from a boat.
- New Jersey: On the Delaware River, from New Jersey’s shores or in its waters on a boat.
- New York: On the Delaware River, from New Jersey’s shores or in its waters on a boat (same as New Jersey).
- Ohio: Along the Pymatuning River, when fishing from a boat.
Pennsylvania currently has no other agreements concerning fishing licenses with other states. If you are fishing some of the other border areas, make sure to have a valid fishing license for both states, or make sure you don’t stray into out-of-state waters.
Common Questions about PA Fishing Licenses
We tried to cover everything you need to know. If you still have questions, we recommend getting in touch with your local PFCB office. Otherwise, you’re all set to find a guide near you and start fishing Pennsylvania’s exciting waters!
