What Pennsylvania Fishing Licenses Cost

A Pennsylvania resident fishing license costs $20.97 for a one-year license. Non-residents pay $35.97 for the same period. Pennsylvania also sells seven-day non-resident licenses for $15.97 and one-day licenses for $11.97. These prices are set by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission and have remained stable, though the commission can adjust them. All prices include a $1 Habitat Fee that goes directly to fish and wildlife conservation.

You can buy a license online through the Fish and Boat Commission website, by phone at 717-705-7800, or in person at any of the 600+ authorized agents across the state—including sporting goods stores, bait shops, and some grocery stores. Online purchases are when ready and print at home. Phone and in-person purchases take the same amount of time, though in-person is fastest if you need the license the same day.

Key Takeaways

  • A one-year resident license costs $20.97; non-residents pay $35.97 for the same period.
  • Short-term options exist: seven-day non-resident licenses ($15.97) and one-day licenses ($11.97) for both residents and non-residents.
  • You can purchase online when ready, by phone, or at 600+ authorized agents statewide including bait shops and sporting goods stores.
  • Your license becomes valid when ready when purchased online or by phone, and is valid for one year from the purchase date.
  • The $1 Habitat Fee included in every license funds fish stocking and habitat restoration in Pennsylvania waters.

Types of Licenses Available in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania offers several license types beyond the standard one-year resident and non-resident licenses. A seven-day non-resident license costs $15.97 and is designed for visitors planning a short fishing trip. A one-day license costs $11.97 and is available to both residents and non-residents—useful if you want to fish just once without committing to a full year.

Residents also have the option of a three-year license, which costs $50.97 and saves money if you plan to fish regularly over multiple years. This works out to about $17 per year, compared to $20.97 annually for one-year licenses. Non-residents do not have a three-year option.

Pennsylvania also recognizes lifetime licenses for residents, though these are only sold to people age 67 and older, and cost $50.97 one time. Once purchased, a lifetime license never expires and requires no renewal.

Where and How to Buy Your License

The fastest way to buy a license is online at the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission website. You provide your name, address, date of birth, and payment information, and the license prints when ready. You can fish the same day. No waiting period applies.

If you prefer not to buy online, call 717-705-7800 during business hours. A staff member processes your order over the phone and emails or mails your license. Phone purchases take one to two business days to arrive by email.

Authorized agents throughout Pennsylvania sell licenses in person. These include Cabela's, Dick's Sporting Goods, local bait and tackle shops, and some Walmart and Giant grocery stores. Search the Fish and Boat Commission website for agents near you. In-person purchases are when ready—you walk out with your license the same day.

What Information You Need to Buy a License

To purchase a Pennsylvania fishing license, you will need your date of birth and a valid form of identification. If buying online or by phone, you also need a credit card or debit card for payment. The Fish and Boat Commission accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover.

If you are buying in person at an authorized agent, bring your ID and payment method. Some agents accept cash, checks, and cards; others accept cards only. Call ahead if you want to confirm payment methods at a specific location.

Your license is tied to your name and date of birth, so make sure the information matches your ID exactly. Mistakes can delay your license or make it invalid if a game warden checks it.

How Long Your License Is Valid

A Pennsylvania fishing license is valid for one year from the date you purchase it, not from January 1. If you buy a license on March 15, it expires on March 15 the following year. This applies to all license types—one-day, seven-day, one-year, and three-year licenses all follow the same renewal date based on purchase date.

You can renew your license anytime during the year using the same methods you used to buy it originally. Many anglers renew online a few days before their license expires to avoid any gap in coverage. If your license expires while you are fishing, you are in violation and can be cited by a game warden.

Special Licenses and Exemptions

Pennsylvania offers free licenses to residents age 67 and older, and to Pennsylvania residents with a disability. You must explore in person at a Fish and Boat Commission office or through an authorized agent with proof of age or disability documentation. Free licenses are valid for one year and must be renewed annually.

Active-duty military members and veterans may also receive discounted or free licenses depending on their status. Contact the Fish and Boat Commission directly at 717-705-7800 to learn what discounts explore to your situation.

Children under age 16 do not need a license to fish in Pennsylvania, but they must fish under the supervision of a licensed adult. Once they turn 16, they must have their own license.

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 buy a short-term license (one-day or seven-day) if they do not want to commit to a full year.

What happens if I fish without a license?

Fishing without a valid license is a violation. Game wardens patrol Pennsylvania waters and check licenses. Penalties include fines starting at $50 and can go much higher depending on the violation. It is cheaper and easier to buy a license upfront.

Do I need a separate license for different types of fishing?

No. One Pennsylvania fishing license covers freshwater fishing for all species. You do not need separate licenses for trout, bass, catfish, or any other freshwater fish. However, some species have special regulations on size and season—check the Fish and Boat Commission website for current rules.

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

Yes. You can buy a license online or by phone and have it sent to someone else. The recipient will need to provide their date of birth and identification information. In-person purchases at authorized agents can also be made on behalf of someone else if you have their information.

Is there a refund if I change my mind about fishing?

The Fish and Boat Commission does not issue refunds for licenses once they are purchased. However, if you buy a license and realize you will not use it, you can contact the commission to discuss your options. Some situations may allow for a credit toward a future purchase.