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. To ensure the sustainability of these resources and provide a fair opportunity for all anglers, the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) requires individuals aged 16 and older to possess a valid fishing license when fishing in Pennsylvania waters. Walmart, a major retailer in the state, offers a convenient option for purchasing fishing licenses, with prices that match the rates set by the PFBC.
Resident Fishing Licenses in Pennsylvania for 2024
Pennsylvania residents can purchase fishing licenses at Walmart stores across the state. The prices for resident fishing licenses in 2024 are as follows:
Annual resident license (age 16–64): $22.97
Senior resident annual license (65 ): $11.97
Senior resident lifetime license: $51.97
1-day resident license: $11.97
Non-Resident Fishing Licenses in Pennsylvania for 2024
Non-residents visiting Pennsylvania can also purchase fishing licenses at Walmart stores. The prices for non-resident fishing licenses in 2024 are as follows:
Non-resident annual license: $52.97
Non-resident 1-day license: $11.97
Non-resident 3-day license: $26.97
Non-resident 7-day license: $34.97
Additional Permits and Licenses
In addition to the basic fishing license, anglers in Pennsylvania may need to purchase additional permits or licenses 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
Fishing derby permits: Required for participating in fishing derbies with prizes
Commercial fishing licenses: Needed for commercial fishing operations
These additional permits and licenses may not be available for purchase at Walmart stores and may need to be obtained directly from the PFBC or other authorized agents.
Purchasing Fishing Licenses at Walmart in Pennsylvania
Walmart stores in Pennsylvania are authorized agents for selling fishing licenses on behalf of the PFBC. Anglers can conveniently purchase their licenses at most Walmart locations across the state. When purchasing a license at Walmart, it’s important to bring a valid form of identification and be aware that a small service fee may be added to the base price.
In addition to the convenience of purchasing licenses at Walmart, anglers can also buy their licenses online through the PFBC’s official website at pa.wildlifelicense.com. This allows anglers to instantly print or display their licenses on their mobile devices, making it easier to access their licenses while fishing.
It’s important to note that children under the age of 16 can fish for free in Pennsylvania with a Voluntary Youth License or when accompanied by a licensed adult. However, anglers aged 16 and older must possess a valid fishing license to legally fish in Pennsylvania waters.
By purchasing a fishing license at Walmart or through other authorized agents, anglers in Pennsylvania can enjoy the state’s abundant fishing resources while contributing to the conservation and management of these valuable natural resources.