What Pennsylvania Fishing Licenses Cost

A Pennsylvania resident fishing license costs $20.97 for a one-year license. A three-year license costs $53.97. Non-residents pay $35.97 for a one-year license or $88.97 for three years. These prices include a $0.97 administrative fee added to every license purchase.

Pennsylvania also sells short-term licenses for people who fish occasionally. A seven-day non-resident license costs $16.97. A one-day license costs $11.97. Residents do not have the option to buy one-day or seven-day licenses—they must purchase at least a one-year license.

If you are under 16 or over 67, you do not need a license to fish in Pennsylvania. The same applies if you are a Pennsylvania resident fishing on your own property or on property you rent. Military veterans with a service-connected disability rated by the Department of Veterans Affairs can fish without a license.

Key Takeaways

  • A one-year Pennsylvania resident fishing license costs $20.97; a three-year license costs $53.97.
  • Non-residents pay $35.97 for one year or $88.97 for three years, with seven-day ($16.97) and one-day ($11.97) options available.
  • You do not need a license if you are under 16, over 67, or a disabled military veteran with a service-connected rating.
  • You can buy a license online through the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission website, by phone, or at authorized vendors throughout the state.

Where to Buy a Pennsylvania Fishing License

The fastest way to buy a license is online through the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission website at www.fishandboat.com. You can purchase and print your license when ready, and it is valid as soon as you print it. You do not need to wait for anything to arrive in the mail.

You can also buy a license by phone by calling the Fish and Boat Commission at 717-705-7800. A staff member will process your purchase and mail the license to you, which takes about five to seven business days. If you need the license sooner, the online option is faster.

Authorized vendors throughout Pennsylvania also sell licenses in person. These include sporting goods stores, bait and tackle shops, and some Walmart locations. Call ahead to confirm the vendor near you carries licenses, since not all locations stock them.

What Information You Need to Buy a License

To buy a license online or by phone, you will need your Pennsylvania driver's license number or a valid photo ID number. If you do not have a Pennsylvania ID, you can use your Social Security number instead. You will also need a valid email address to receive your license confirmation.

Non-residents must provide their home state or country of residence. If you are buying a license for someone else as a gift, you will need their name and date of birth, but you can use your own contact information for the purchase.

Trout Stamps and Special Permits

If you plan to fish for trout in Pennsylvania, you need a trout stamp in addition to your regular fishing license. A trout stamp costs $11.97 and is valid for one year from the date of purchase. You can buy a trout stamp at the same time you buy your fishing license online or through an authorized vendor.

Pennsylvania also requires a Lake Erie permit if you fish in Lake Erie or its tributaries. This permit costs $10.97 and is separate from your regular license. You do not need this permit if you are fishing in inland waters.

Some areas of Pennsylvania require special permits for specific types of fishing or specific water bodies. Check the Fish and Boat Commission website or call 717-705-7800 to confirm whether the water you plan to fish requires any additional permits beyond your base license.

How Long Your License Stays Valid

A one-year Pennsylvania fishing license is valid for 12 months from the date you purchase it, not from a calendar date. If you buy a license on March 15, it expires on March 14 of the next year. A three-year license is valid for 36 months from purchase.

Your license is valid statewide in Pennsylvania and on any public water where fishing is allowed. It does not expire if you move out of state, but you will need a non-resident license if you return to fish in Pennsylvania after your resident license expires.

Replacing a Lost or Damaged License

If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request a replacement through the Fish and Boat Commission website or by calling 717-705-7800. There is no additional charge for a replacement—the cost is covered by your original purchase. Replacements are mailed to you and typically arrive within five to seven business days.

If you need to fish before your replacement arrives, you can print a temporary license from the Fish and Boat Commission website. This temporary license is valid for 30 days and allows you to fish while you wait for your replacement to arrive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish in Pennsylvania with a license from another state?

No. You must have a Pennsylvania fishing license to fish in Pennsylvania waters, even if you hold a valid license from another state. The only exception is if you are exempt from needing a license—for example, if you are under 16 or over 67.

Do I need a separate license to fish in different counties?

No. A single Pennsylvania fishing license is valid statewide and covers all counties. You do not need to buy multiple licenses for different regions of the state.

What happens if I fish without a license?

Fishing without a required license is a violation of Pennsylvania law. Penalties include fines and possible confiscation of fishing equipment. The amount of the fine depends on the circumstances and whether it is a first or repeat offense. Contact the Fish and Boat Commission or a Pennsylvania Game Warden if you have questions about whether you need a license.

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

Yes. You can purchase a license online or by phone using the recipient's name and date of birth. Print or request the license be mailed to yourself, then give it to the recipient. The license will be valid for that person once they receive it.

Is there a discount for seniors or military members?

Pennsylvania does not offer a discounted license price for seniors or military members. However, residents over 67 do not need a license at all. Military veterans with a service-connected disability rated by the Department of Veterans Affairs are also exempt from needing a license.