What Pennsylvania Fishing Licenses Cost

A Pennsylvania resident fishing license costs $20.97 for a one-year license. Non-residents pay $50.97 for the same period. If you want to fish for just three days, Pennsylvania offers a three-day non-resident license for $19.97. A one-day license costs $11.97 for non-residents; residents cannot buy a one-day license.

These prices are current as of 2024, but the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission updates fees periodically. If you plan to fish regularly, a full-year license is the better value than buying multiple short-term licenses. You can purchase a license online through the Fish and Boat Commission website, by phone, or at authorized vendors like sporting goods stores and bait shops throughout the state.

Key Takeaways

  • A one-year Pennsylvania resident fishing license costs $20.97; non-residents pay $50.97 for the same period.
  • Non-residents can buy three-day ($19.97) or one-day ($11.97) licenses if they do not plan to fish the full year.
  • You can purchase licenses online through the Fish and Boat Commission, by phone, or at sporting goods stores and bait shops.
  • Your license becomes valid when ready when purchased online, but paper licenses from vendors may have a short delay.

Where to Buy Your License

The fastest way to get a license is through the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission website at www.fishandboat.com. You can buy and print your license in minutes, and it is valid right away. You will need a valid Pennsylvania driver's license or ID number to complete the purchase online.

If you prefer not to buy online, you can call the Fish and Boat Commission at 717-705-7800 during business hours. They can process your order over the phone and mail the license to you, though this takes several days. You can also visit any authorized vendor in the state—these include Cabela's, Dick's Sporting Goods, local bait and tackle shops, and some Walmart locations. Vendor licenses are printed on the spot, but availability varies by location.

What Your License Covers

A standard Pennsylvania fishing license allows you to fish in any public water in the state, including lakes, rivers, and streams. The license covers freshwater fishing only—saltwater fishing requires a separate license if you fish in coastal areas outside Pennsylvania.

Your license does not cover trout fishing in certain waters. Pennsylvania has special trout lakes and streams that require a Trout Stamp in addition to your base license. The Trout Stamp costs $10.97 for residents and $15.97 for non-residents and is valid for one year. Some waters are open to anyone with a base license, while others require the stamp. The Fish and Boat Commission website lists which waters need the stamp before you go.

Special Licenses and Exemptions

Pennsylvania offers reduced-cost licenses for certain groups. Seniors aged 65 and older pay $11.97 for a one-year resident license. Disabled veterans and active-duty military members may be exempt from needing a license entirely—check the Fish and Boat Commission website or call to confirm your status.

Children under 16 do not need a fishing license in Pennsylvania, but they must follow all other fishing rules and regulations. If a child is fishing with an adult, the adult must have a valid license. Some counties offer free fishing days where anyone can fish without a license for a limited time; the Fish and Boat Commission announces these dates on their website.

How Long Your License Lasts

A one-year resident or non-resident license is valid from the date of purchase for exactly 12 months. If you buy your license on March 15, it expires on March 14 of the following year. You can renew your license up to 30 days before it expires, so you do not have a gap in coverage if you plan ahead.

Three-day and one-day licenses are valid for consecutive calendar days. A three-day license purchased on a Friday is good through Sunday. A one-day license is valid only for the calendar day on which you purchase it. If you buy a one-day license at 11 p.m., it expires at midnight.

What You Need to Bring When You Fish

You must carry your license with you whenever you fish in Pennsylvania. If you bought your license online and printed it, bring the printed copy. If you bought it from a vendor, bring the physical license card. A photo on your phone is not enough—you need the actual document.

Game wardens check licenses regularly, and fishing without one or without carrying it can result in a fine. The fine for fishing without a license in Pennsylvania ranges from $50 to $300 depending on the violation. Carrying your license takes no space and prevents a costly ticket.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish in Pennsylvania with an out-of-state license?

No. You must have a Pennsylvania license to fish in Pennsylvania waters, even if you hold a valid license from another state. The only exception is if you are a resident of a state that has a reciprocal agreement with Pennsylvania, but Pennsylvania does not currently have such agreements. Buy a non-resident license if you are visiting.

Do I need a separate license for each type of fish?

No. One fishing license covers all freshwater fish species in Pennsylvania. The only add-on is the Trout Stamp if you want to fish in designated trout waters. You do not need different licenses for bass, catfish, pike, or panfish.

What happens if my license expires while I am on a fishing trip?

Your license must be valid on the day you fish. If it expires on a Tuesday and you fish on Wednesday, you are fishing without a license. Renew before your trip ends, or you risk a fine. You can renew online when ready if you have internet access.

Can I get a refund if I buy a license and do not use it?

The Fish and Boat Commission does not issue refunds for unused licenses. Once purchased, a license is non-refundable. If you are unsure whether you will fish, consider buying a shorter-term license first.

Do I need a license to fish on private property?

You need a license to fish on private property in Pennsylvania unless the owner has posted a sign saying the water is exempt. Most private ponds and streams still require a state license. Always ask the property owner before fishing on their land.