What You Pay for a Pennsylvania Fishing License

A Pennsylvania resident fishing license costs $20.97 for a one-year license. A three-day license costs $10.97. A one-day license costs $7.97. Non-residents pay $35.97 for a one-year license, $15.97 for a seven-day license, and $10.97 for a three-day license. These prices include the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission's administrative fee.

You do not need a license to fish in Pennsylvania if you are under 16 years old, over 69 years old, or fishing on your own property with a rod and reel. You also do not need one if you are a Pennsylvania resident fishing during a designated free fishing day, which the state announces each year.

Prices can change annually. Check the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission website or call 717-705-7800 before you buy to confirm current rates.

Key Takeaways

  • Pennsylvania resident one-year licenses cost $20.97; non-residents pay $35.97 for the same period.
  • Short-term options exist: three-day licenses cost $10.97 for residents and $15.97 for non-residents.
  • You can buy licenses online through the Fish and Boat Commission website, by phone, or at authorized vendors like sporting goods stores and bait shops.
  • Children under 16 and adults over 69 do not need a license, and Pennsylvania offers at least one free fishing day per year for residents.

Where to Buy Your License

You can purchase a Pennsylvania fishing license online through the Fish and Boat Commission's website, which is the fastest option. You receive your license when ready and can print it or show it on your phone. Online purchases are open 24 hours.

You can also buy a license by phone by calling 717-705-7800 during business hours. A staff member will process your order and mail the license to you, which takes about a week.

Authorized vendors throughout Pennsylvania sell licenses in person. These include Cabela's, Dick's Sporting Goods, Walmart, and local bait and tackle shops. Call ahead to confirm the vendor near you has the license type you need in stock.

License Types Beyond the Standard Year

Pennsylvania offers several license options depending on how often you fish. The one-year license is the most common and covers January through December. The three-day license works for any three consecutive days within a 14-day window and is useful if you are visiting or fishing occasionally. The one-day license covers a single calendar day.

A seven-day license is available only to non-residents and covers seven consecutive days. Seniors 70 and older can purchase a lifetime license for a one-time fee of $50.97, which covers all freshwater fishing for the rest of their life.

Pennsylvania also sells combination licenses that bundle fishing with hunting privileges. A resident combination license costs $38.97 for one year. These are useful if you hunt and fish during different seasons.

What Your License Covers

A Pennsylvania fishing license allows you to fish in the state's lakes, rivers, and streams for freshwater species. This includes bass, trout, catfish, pike, and panfish. The license covers rod and reel fishing, fly fishing, and hand-line fishing.

Your license does not cover saltwater fishing or fishing in private ponds without the owner's permission. It also does not cover special permits required for certain areas or methods. For example, trout stamp permits are separate and cost $11.97 for residents and $16.97 for non-residents if you want to fish in designated trout waters.

Check the Fish and Boat Commission's website for current regulations on catch limits, season dates, and restricted areas. Rules change by species and location.

Discounts and Special Situations

Pennsylvania does not offer a discount on the standard license price, but the state does waive the license requirement for certain groups. Active-duty military members can fish without a license. Pennsylvania residents with a disability can receive a free license by contacting the Fish and Boat Commission directly with proof of disability status.

If you are a resident and turn 70 during the year, you can purchase a lifetime license at the senior rate of $50.97 instead of renewing annually. This is a one-time purchase that covers you for life.

Some fishing clubs and organizations offer group discounts when members buy licenses together, but this varies by club. Ask your local fishing club or tackle shop whether they participate in group purchasing.

How Long Your License Lasts

A one-year resident license runs from the date of purchase for 12 months. If you buy it in March, it expires in March the following year. A three-day license begins on the first day you use it and runs for three consecutive calendar days. A one-day license is valid only on the day you purchase it or the day you specify when you buy it online.

Non-resident licenses work the same way: one-year licenses last 12 months from purchase, and short-term licenses run for the number of days stated. A seven-day non-resident license covers seven consecutive days starting whenever you choose to begin using it.

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. Non-residents can purchase a one-year, seven-day, or three-day Pennsylvania license.

Do I need a separate permit for trout fishing?

Yes. A fishing license alone does not cover trout in designated trout waters. You must also buy a trout stamp permit, which costs $11.97 for residents and $16.97 for non-residents. Some waters are open to trout fishing without the stamp; check the Fish and Boat Commission's website for which areas require it.

What happens if I fish without a license?

Fishing without a valid license in Pennsylvania is a violation. Penalties include fines and possible confiscation of equipment. The amount varies depending on the circumstances. If you are unsure whether you need a license, contact the Fish and Boat Commission before you fish.

Can I buy a license for someone else as a gift?

Yes. You can purchase a license online or through an authorized vendor and give it to someone else. If you buy online, you can use a different name and address during checkout. The person receiving the license should carry it while fishing.

Is there a refund if I don't use my license?

Pennsylvania 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 short-term license instead of a full-year license.