Fishing is a popular pastime in Pennsylvania, with the state boasting an abundance of rivers, lakes, and streams teeming with a variety of fish species. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner looking to try your hand at the sport, having a valid fishing license is a must. In Pennsylvania, fishing licenses can be purchased from various authorized agents, including Walmart stores across the state. But how much does a PA fishing license cost at Walmart in 2024? Let’s dive into the details.
Resident Fishing Licenses at Walmart in Pennsylvania
If you’re a Pennsylvania resident, you have several options when it comes to purchasing a fishing license at Walmart. The most common choices are:
- Annual Resident License (age 16-64): $22.97
- Senior Resident Annual License (65 ): $11.97
- 1-day Resident License: $11.97
It’s important to note that children under the age of 16 can fish for free in Pennsylvania, either with a Voluntary Youth License or when accompanied by a licensed adult.
Non-Resident Fishing Licenses at Walmart in Pennsylvania
If you’re visiting Pennsylvania from out of state, you’ll need to purchase a non-resident fishing license. Walmart offers the following options:
- Non-Resident Annual License: $52.97
- Non-Resident Tourist Licenses:
- 1-day: $26.97
- 3-day: $26.97
- 7-day: $34.97
These prices are set by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) and are consistent across all authorized agents, including Walmart stores in the state.
Additional Permits and Licenses
In addition to the basic fishing license, anglers in Pennsylvania may need to purchase additional permits depending on their fishing activities:
- Trout Permit: Required for anglers 16 and older fishing for trout in PA waters – $9.97 annually
- Lake Erie Permit: Necessary for fishing in Lake Erie, Presque Isle Bay, and peninsula waters – $9.97 annually
For specialized situations, such as fishing derbies with prizes or commercial fishing operations, additional permits may be required. These are typically not available at Walmart and must be obtained directly from the PFBC.
Purchasing Your PA Fishing License at Walmart
Buying your fishing license at Walmart is a convenient option, as the retailer has multiple locations across Pennsylvania. When purchasing your license, keep the following in mind:
- Bring a valid form of identification
- Be aware that a small service fee may be added to the base price of the license
- Consider buying your license well before your planned fishing trip to avoid any last-minute issues
Alternatively, you can purchase your PA fishing license online through the PFBC’s official website at pa.wildlifelicense.com. This allows you to instantly print or display your license on your mobile device.
Fishing Regulations and Seasons in Pennsylvania
Before heading out to fish in Pennsylvania, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the state’s fishing regulations and seasons. These can vary depending on the specific water body and species you plan to target. Be sure to check the PFBC website or consult with local tackle shops for the most up-to-date information.
Fishing licenses in Pennsylvania are valid for one year, from January 1 to December 31. It’s important to renew your license each year to ensure you’re fishing legally and contributing to the conservation efforts of the PFBC.
Pennsylvania offers a wide range of fishing opportunities, from trout streams in the mountains to bass-filled lakes and rivers. With a valid fishing license from Walmart or another authorized agent, you can explore these diverse waters and enjoy the thrill of catching fish throughout the year.