In the state of Pennsylvania, a valid fishing license is required for anyone aged 16 and older who wishes to fish or angle for any species of fish. This license must be carried on your person at all times while fishing and presented to an officer upon request. Additionally, a license is necessary to take fishbait or baitfish from Commonwealth waters.
Types of Fishing Licenses in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania offers several types of fishing licenses to accommodate different anglers:
Resident Annual License: For Pennsylvania residents aged 16-64, the cost is $27.97 in 2024.
Senior Resident Annual License: For Pennsylvania residents aged 65 and older, the cost is $14.47 in 2024.
Senior Resident Lifetime License: For Pennsylvania residents aged 65 and older, the cost varies based on the purchaser’s age.
Non-Resident Annual License: For non-residents of Pennsylvania, the cost is $54.97 in 2024.
Tourist 3-Day License: For non-residents of Pennsylvania, the cost is $26.97 in 2024.
Trout Permit: Required for fishing for trout in Pennsylvania waters, the cost is $9.97 in 2024.
Lake Erie Permit: Required for fishing in Pennsylvania waters of Lake Erie, Presque Isle Bay, and their tributaries, the cost is $9.97 in 2024.
Licenses can be purchased from various locations, including license-issuing agents, county treasurer offices, Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission offices, and online through the HuntFish PA website.
Exemptions and Discounts
Certain individuals may be exempt from purchasing a fishing license or eligible for discounted licenses:
Children under 16: Children under the age of 16 are not required to purchase a fishing license.
Disabled Veterans: Pennsylvania residents who are disabled veterans with a disability incurred in any war or armed conflict may be eligible for a free or reduced-fee fishing license, depending on their disability rating.
Active Duty Military: Pennsylvania residents who are on active duty and stationed outside the state may fish without a license while on authorized leave, provided they carry proof of residency, military status, and leave orders.
Mentored Youth Program: Adults can purchase a voluntary license or permit for children under 16 to participate in the Mentored Youth Trout Day program.
It’s important to note that while some individuals may be exempt from purchasing a license, they are still required to follow all other fishing regulations and laws in Pennsylvania.
What Can You Fish For?
With a valid Pennsylvania fishing license, you can fish for a wide variety of species, including:
Trout: Pennsylvania is known for its excellent trout fishing, with numerous streams and lakes stocked with various trout species.
Bass: Both largemouth and smallmouth bass are popular game fish in Pennsylvania’s waters.
Walleye: Walleye can be found in many of Pennsylvania’s lakes and rivers, particularly in the western part of the state.
Muskellunge: Also known as “muskie,” these large predatory fish are a prized catch for many anglers in Pennsylvania.
Panfish: Pennsylvania offers excellent fishing for various panfish species, such as crappie, bluegill, and perch.
Catfish: Channel catfish, flathead catfish, and bullhead catfish are all found in Pennsylvania’s waterways.
In addition to these popular game fish, a Pennsylvania fishing license also allows you to take fishbait and baitfish from Commonwealth waters, which can be used for live bait or cut bait when fishing.
To ensure the sustainability of Pennsylvania’s fisheries, anglers must adhere to specific regulations, such as size limits, creel limits, and seasonal restrictions. These regulations are outlined in the Pennsylvania Fishing Summary Book, which is available online and at various locations where fishing licenses are sold.
In conclusion, a Pennsylvania fishing license is a necessary requirement for anyone aged 16 and older who wishes to fish or angle for any species of fish in the state’s waters. With a wide variety of fish species available and numerous locations to fish, Pennsylvania offers an excellent opportunity for anglers of all skill levels to enjoy the sport of fishing.