As the 2024 fishing season approaches in Pennsylvania, many anglers are wondering about the requirements for youth fishing licenses. In this article, we’ll explore the regulations surrounding youth fishing licenses in the Keystone State and provide you with the information you need to ensure you’re fishing legally and responsibly.
Voluntary Youth Fishing License vs. Mentored Youth Permit
In Pennsylvania, youth anglers under the age of 16 have two options when it comes to participating in fishing activities: the Voluntary Youth Fishing License and the Mentored Youth Permit.
The Voluntary Youth Fishing License costs $2.97 ($1.00 cost plus $1.97 in agent/transaction fees) and provides several benefits:
- It allows youth anglers to participate in all fishing opportunities throughout the year, including Mentored Youth Fishing Days.
- For each Voluntary Youth Fishing License purchased, the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) receives approximately $5 in federal reimbursement funding, which is dedicated to youth outreach and education programs.
The Mentored Youth Permit, on the other hand, is free and also allows youth anglers to participate in Mentored Youth Fishing Days. However, the PFBC does not receive any federal reimbursement funding for free Mentored Youth Permits.
While both the Voluntary Youth Fishing License and the Mentored Youth Permit provide opportunities for youth to fish, the Commission encourages anglers to purchase the Voluntary Youth Fishing License or Voucher to support the future of fishing in Pennsylvania.
Mentored Youth Trout Fishing Day
One of the most popular events for youth anglers in Pennsylvania is the Mentored Youth Trout Fishing Day. In 2024, this statewide event will be held on Saturday, March 30, from 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
To participate in the Mentored Youth Trout Fishing Day, anglers 15 years of age and under must obtain either a Voluntary Youth Fishing License or a free Mentored Youth Permit from the PFBC. They must be accompanied by a licensed adult angler (16 years of age or older) who possesses a valid Pennsylvania Fishing License and a Trout Permit.
During the Mentored Youth Trout Fishing Day, youth anglers may harvest up to two trout (combined species) with a minimum length of 7 inches. Adult mentors are permitted to fish for trout but are not allowed to harvest them and must release them immediately, unharmed.
Benefits of the Voluntary Youth Fishing License
While both the Voluntary Youth Fishing License and the Mentored Youth Permit provide opportunities for youth to fish, the Voluntary Youth Fishing License offers several additional benefits:
- It allows youth anglers to participate in all fishing opportunities throughout the year, not just on Mentored Youth Fishing Days.
- For each Voluntary Youth Fishing License purchased, the PFBC receives approximately $5 in federal reimbursement funding, which is dedicated to youth outreach and education programs.
- The Voluntary Youth Fishing License supports the future of fishing in Pennsylvania by providing funding for youth programs.
The PFBC encourages anglers to purchase either a Voluntary Youth Fishing License or a Voluntary Youth Fishing License Voucher to invest in the future of fishing and support youth programs.
Exemptions and Discounts
While most anglers 16 years of age and older are required to possess a valid Pennsylvania Fishing License, there are some exemptions and discounts available:
- Landowners with property available for public fishing may qualify for a reduced-fee license.
- Some anglers may qualify for free licenses or permits based on specific criteria.
It’s important for anglers to check the current regulations and eligibility requirements to determine if they qualify for any exemptions or discounts.
Conclusion
In summary, youth anglers in Pennsylvania have the option to obtain either a Voluntary Youth Fishing License or a free Mentored Youth Permit to participate in fishing activities. The Voluntary Youth Fishing License provides additional benefits, such as allowing youth to fish year-round and supporting the future of fishing through federal reimbursement funding.
The Mentored Youth Trout Fishing Day is a popular event that allows youth anglers to fish for trout with the guidance of a licensed adult mentor. By purchasing a Voluntary Youth Fishing License or Voucher, anglers can invest in the future of fishing and support youth programs in Pennsylvania.
For more information on fishing licenses, permits, and regulations in Pennsylvania, visit the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission website at fishandboat.com or contact your local licensing agent.