If you’ve misplaced your fishing license in Pennsylvania, you’re probably wondering how much it will cost to replace it. In 2024, the total cost to replace a lost fishing license, including any previously purchased permits or privileges printed on the base license, is $6.97.
Replacing a Lost Fishing License in Pennsylvania
According to the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission, a lost fishing license can be replaced at any issuing agent for a fee of $6.97. This cost covers the replacement license and any permits or privileges that were previously purchased and printed on the base license.
You can also reprint your lost license online for free through the HuntFishPA website. However, if you choose this option, you will still need to pay the $6.97 fee to replace any permits or privileges that were included on your original license.
It’s important to note that the $6.97 replacement fee applies to both single-year and multi-year fishing licenses. If you had a multi-year license, such as a Senior Resident Lifetime License, the cost to replace it and any associated permits would still be $6.97.
Who Needs a Fishing License in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, anyone aged 16 or older is required to have a valid fishing license to fish in any Commonwealth waters. This includes casting and retrieving a line, whether using a rod, reel, and line or a handline.
There are a few exceptions to this rule. Landowners and their family members who reside on their land year-round may fish on that land without a license. Additionally, people who are totally blind or have severe physical or mental impairments that prevent them from casting or retrieving a line may fish without a license if they are within 10 feet of the device being used and are assisted by another person.
Active duty military personnel stationed in Pennsylvania for at least 6 months under permanent change of station orders may also qualify for a resident fishing license. Certain disabled veterans who are Pennsylvania residents may be eligible for a free or reduced-fee fishing license.
How to Obtain a Fishing License in Pennsylvania
Fishing licenses in Pennsylvania are sold by license issuing agents through an electronic point-of-sale system. You can purchase a license from one of over 700 issuing agents, at county treasurers’ offices, at Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission offices, or online through the HuntFishPA website.
When purchasing a resident fishing license, you must show proof of permanent residency by presenting a valid Pennsylvania driver’s license, non-driver photo ID card, previous year’s Pennsylvania state income tax return, previous year’s local earned income tax return, or a current Pennsylvania voter registration card.
In addition to a basic fishing license, anglers may need to purchase additional permits or privileges depending on their fishing activities. For example, a Trout Permit is required to fish for trout, and a Lake Erie Permit is needed to fish in Lake Erie or its tributaries.
The cost of a fishing license varies depending on the type of license and the angler’s age and residency status. In 2024, a Pennsylvania resident annual fishing license costs $22.97, while a non-resident annual license costs $52.97.
Anglers can also purchase multi-year licenses, which are valid for 3 or 5 years. A multi-year license can save money in the long run, but it’s important to remember that the cost to replace a lost multi-year license is still $6.97.
For young anglers, Pennsylvania offers a Voluntary Youth Fishing License for $2.97. This license provides an extended return for both Pennsylvania’s youth and the Fish & Boat Commission, as the Commission receives $5 back in federal reimbursement for each license sold.
In addition to the Voluntary Youth Fishing License, Pennsylvania also offers a free Mentored Youth Permit. Both the permit and the license allow youth to participate in Mentored Youth Fishing Days, but the Commission encourages anglers to purchase the Voluntary Youth Fishing License or Voucher to support youth outreach and education programs.