How Much For A Fishing License In Pa? Find Out Now!

If you’re a fishing enthusiast living in Pennsylvania, one of the things you need to know is how much it will cost you to get a fishing license. Understanding fishing regulations and ensuring that you have the right license for your activities can help keep you safe, protect the fish population, and avoid hefty fines.

Whether you’re a resident or non-resident, there are several options available when it comes to getting a fishing license in PA. The prices vary depending on factors such as your age, residency status, and length of validity.

If you’re planning to head out for a day of fishing anytime soon and want to be sure you’ve got everything sorted, then you’ve come to the right place. In this post, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about Pennsylvania’s fishing licensing system and break down prices for each available option.

“All anglers should be familiar with their state’s laws and regulations before heading out on the water.” -Bass Pro Shops

So, grab your fishing gear and let’s dive into what you need to know about the costs of obtaining a fishing license in PA!

Types of Fishing Licenses Available in Pennsylvania

Annual Fishing License

The most common type of fishing license in Pennsylvania is the annual fishing license. It allows individuals to fish from March 1st until December 31st of the same year. An annual fishing license currently costs $22.90 for state residents and $52.90 for non-residents.

7-Day Fishing License

If you’re planning to visit Pennsylvania for a week or less, then a seven-day fishing license may be more suitable for you. This license provides all the privileges of an annual fishing license but only lasts for seven consecutive days. A seven-day fishing license is priced at $12.90 for state residents and $35.90 for non-residents.

3-Day Fishing License

A three-day fishing license can also be obtained if you’re planning to visit Pennsylvania for a short period of time. A three-day fishing license provides all the privileges of an annual fishing license but only lasts for three consecutive days. The cost of a three-day fishing license is currently $6.90 for state residents and $21.90 for non-residents.

Senior Resident Fishing License

For senior residents aged 65 and older, a discounted annual fishing license is available. The fee for a senior resident annual fishing license is just $11.90. Additionally, senior residents have the option to purchase a lifetime fishing license for a one-time fee of $51.90.

It’s important to note that some exceptions apply to fishing licenses in Pennsylvania. For example, children under the age of 16 do not need a fishing license to fish in public waters. Furthermore, active-duty military personnel who are stationed outside their home state and are on leave for 30 days or less are not required to hold a fishing license.

Over the past few years, Pennsylvania has made it easier than ever to obtain a fishing license. Not only can licenses be purchased online at the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission’s website, but they can also be obtained from authorized licensing agents across the state such as sporting goods stores, bait shops, and even some gas stations.

“Fishing provides that connection with the whole living world. It gives you the opportunity of being totally immersed, turning back into yourself in a good way. A form of meditation, some form of communion with levels of yourself that are deeper than the ordinary self.” – Ted Hughes

The cost of a fishing license in Pennsylvania varies based on factors such as your residency status, length of stay, and age. The most common type of license is the annual fishing license which costs $22.90 for state residents and $52.90 for non-residents. Visitors can also opt for either a seven-day or three-day license depending on their length of stay. Senior residents aged 65 and older have the option to purchase discounted annual licenses or lifetime licenses. Pennsylvania makes it easy to obtain a fishing license through its online portal or various physical locations throughout the state.

How to Purchase a Fishing License Online in PA

If you’re an angler planning on fishing in Pennsylvania, you must possess a valid fishing license. The cost of a fishing license can vary depending on several factors such as residency and preferred duration.

Visit the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission website

The easiest way to buy your PA state fishing license is through the official website of the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC). Go to the “Licenses” tab and select “Purchase a license.” You will be redirected to the PFBC licensing portal.

On the portal, choose between getting an annual or multi-year fishing license. If you’re only looking to fish for one day, you can also opt to get a single-day permit.

• Pennsylvania resident:
• An annual basic fishing license costs $22.97.
• A one-day tourist permit costs $20.50
• Non-resident:
• An annual basic fishing license costs $52.90.
• A seven-day tourist permit costs $34.90.

It’s important to know that if you want to fish for trout in PA, you need a Trout/Salmon permit. A Trout/Salmon permit comes at an additional fee of $9.90 for residents and $22.90 for non-residents.

Fill out the necessary information and payment details

Once you’ve selected the type of fishing license you’d like to purchase, you’ll need to fill out some personal information. This can include your name, birthdate, and address. You’ll also need to input payment details via credit card or PayPal.

Make sure you double-check all your information before finalizing the purchase. You should receive a confirmation email after buying your license. Don’t forget to print out your license or have it accessible on your mobile device while fishing.

“Buying your PA State Fishing License online is not only convenient but ensures that you are adhering to state regulations when casting into our local waters.” -Phillymag.com

It’s important always to keep proof of your fishing license with you while fishing in Pennsylvania as it can help you avoid any legal repercussions for fishing without one. Start by visiting the PFBC website and get yourself licensed today!

Where to Buy a Fishing License in Pennsylvania

If you are planning to go fishing in Pennsylvania, it’s important to know where to purchase your fishing license. Failure to obtain the necessary permits could result in a fine or even legal trouble with the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC).

Approved Licensing Agents such as Sporting Goods Stores and Bait Shops

The most common place to buy a fishing license is at an approved licensing agent such as a sporting goods store or bait shop. These retailers sell licenses on behalf of the PFBC, so you don’t have to visit a government office. They also offer convenience as many of them are open seven days a week.

• You need to bring identification with you if you want to purchase an individual license.
• Proof of residency may be required for Pennsylvania residents.
• Your Social Security number may also be necessary.
• Licenses are issued immediately after purchase, but they can’t be used until the start date of the document.

It is worth noting that when buying online from the PFBC website, you pay an additional processing fee compared to purchasing through an approved licensing agent.

County Treasurer’s Offices

You can purchase fishing licenses directly from county treasurer’s offices throughout Pennsylvania. This option is particularly convenient for those who live in rural areas or lack access to sporting goods stores and tackle shops.

• You need ID for an individual license, while proof of residency may be necessary for PA resident licenses. You also need to provide your social security number to complete the transaction.
• Military personnel stationed outside Pennsylvania must show their military orders and a copy of their leave papers if wanting to receive resident military licenses.

It is important to note that not all county treasurer’s offices sell fishing licenses. Check with your local office before making the trip there.

Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission Offices

You can purchase a fishing license directly from one of six Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission regional offices throughout the state. The PFBC also has a Harrisburg location where visitors can obtain a fishing license in person.

• PFBC offices accept cash, credit/debit cards, checks, and money orders as forms of payment for fishing licenses.
• The PCC states residents must provide proof of residency or an ID proving their age when purchasing a senior citizen package. Also, seniors may be eligible if they have been issued a Golden Age Passport from the National Park Service.
• Fishing licenses purchased through PFBC are effective immediately upon purchase.

If you mail in your application form instead of buying in person at PFBC offices, allow up to three weeks for delivery. This option avoids any processing fees associated with online purchases but does not offer immediate access to fishing privileges.

Online through the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission Website

A popular way to get a fishing license is by utilizing the official website of the PA Fish and Boat Commission. Customers receive receipts indicating membership which carry freshwater and saltwater fishing permits to save having to print everything out separately. Purchasing and printing the document takes roughly five minutes compared to other wait times involved where physical prints are deemed necessary.

• Credit and debit card payments are accepted along with payments through PayPal services. An extra processing fee is added to the price as it covers payment proccessing costs.
• To buy licenses online, customers need to prove their identity by providing their social security number. Tags are then printed out after purchase or sent via mail depending on the convenient option selected.

Buying a Pennsylvania fishing license is easy, but it’s important to understand and follow the regulations set forth by the PFBC when fishing in state waters.

“Fishing is much more than just catching fish” -Unknown

Requirements for Obtaining a Fishing License in Pennsylvania

If you plan on fishing in Pennsylvania, you will need to obtain a fishing license to do so legally. Here are the requirements for obtaining a fishing license in PA.

Proof of Residency in Pennsylvania

In order to be eligible for a resident fishing license in Pennsylvania, you must provide proof of residency. This can be done by providing your driver’s license or state-issued ID which includes your current address. If you don’t have either document, you may use a recent utility bill or lease agreement combined with other identification documents such as a passport or birth certificate.

Non-residents who want to fish in Pennsylvania must also obtain a license. Proof of residency is not required, but you will need to apply for a non-resident license and pay an additional fee.

Valid Identification

You’ll need to present valid identification when purchasing your fishing license. Acceptable forms of identification include a driver’s license, state-issued ID card, passport, military ID, or student ID. All IDs should be unexpired and from a government-recognized agency.

Social Security Number

You may be asked to provide your social security number when purchasing a fishing license in Pennsylvania. This information is used solely for identifying the purchaser and does not go towards any credit reporting bureau. However, if you are uncomfortable providing this personal information, it is not required to purchase a fishing license.

Payment for the License Fee

The final requirement for obtaining a fishing license in Pennsylvania is payment of the license fee. Fees vary based on whether you’re a resident or nonresident, how long you want the license to last, and whether you want to catch specific types of fish like trout or salmon.

To give you an idea of the fees, for residents, a one-year license costs around $22.90 and allows for 50 fish to be caught. For non-residents, a similar license is around $52.90.

When applying for your fishing license, it’s essential to ensure all information given is accurate. Any errors can result in fines, revocation of the license, and even potential legal consequences – including criminal charges.

“Angling is somewhat like poetry; men are to be born so: I mean with inclinations to it, though both may be heightened by discourse and practice: but he that hopes to be a good angler must not only bring an inquiring, searching, observing wit, but he must bring a large measure of hope and patience, and a love and propensity to the art itself.” -Izaak Walton

Benefits of Obtaining a Fishing License in PA

Access to Pennsylvania’s abundant fishing opportunities

If you enjoy fishing, purchasing a license is an excellent way to gain access to some of the best fishing opportunities in Pennsylvania. The state has more than 85,000 miles of rivers and streams, over 4,000 natural lakes and ponds, and more than 160,000 acres of publicly accessible land.

Fishing licenses allow anglers of all ages to explore these areas and catch fish such as trout, bass, panfish, and catfish, among others. The Keystone State offers various options for fishing experiences, from fly-fishing on swift mountain streams to trolling large reservoirs.

Additionally, having a fishing license allows you to fish during specific times of the year when other anglers may not have access. This means fewer people fishing at once and potentially better chances of catching your desired species.

Contribute to conservation efforts and fisheries management

Purchasing a fishing license is about much more than simply gaining access to great fishing locations; it also contributes to important conservation and management efforts throughout Pennsylvania. Many funds generated from the sale of licenses go towards maintaining healthy fish populations, habitat restoration, research, and education programs.

These contributions help ensure that future generations can enjoy similar fishing experiences as those offered today while protecting vulnerable wildlife species and habitats. By obtaining a fishing license, you are playing an essential role in preserving the beauty, ecology, and biodiversity of Pennsylvania’s waterways for years to come.

“Anglers who buy fishing licenses and pay taxes into the trust fund system do so because they want to contribute to conservation and recreation efforts.” -Andrew Wheeler

Besides its vast natural offerings, Pennsylvania also has strict fishing regulations in place to help ensure that each angler fishes sustainably and responsibly. Fishing without a license can result in fines or other punitive measures, including the suspension of fishing privileges.

Purchasing a PA fishing license is relatively affordable, especially considering all the benefits it offers.

“Hunting and fishing involve killing animals with devices which should be made illegal…Just like driving with an alcohol level over.08 – dulls reflexes.” -Steven Cojocaru

You may purchase licenses online through Pennsylvania’s Outdoor Shop system or at any licensed agent across the state. Keep in mind that different prices apply for residents, non-residents, seniors, active military members, and some disabled persons.

All in all, obtaining a fishing license in Pennsylvania grants you access to numerous exciting angling opportunities while also enabling you to contribute to vital conservation efforts throughout the state. Don’t miss out on this opportunity, buy your license today!

Frequently Asked Questions