What is the Cost of a Junior Fishing License in Pennsylvania for 2024?

In Pennsylvania, there are various fishing license, voucher, and permit options available for anglers in 2024. One of the most common questions is about the cost of a junior fishing license. In this article, we’ll explore the different types of licenses and permits available for youth anglers in the Keystone State.

Resident Fishing Licenses

For Pennsylvania residents, the cost of an annual fishing license in 2024 is $26 for ages 16-64. This license allows anglers to fish for all species of fish in the state’s waters.

Senior residents (age 65 and older) can purchase a license for $12.50. Lifetime licenses are also available for $85.

Mentored Youth Fishing Permits

For youth anglers under the age of 16, Pennsylvania offers two options: the Mentored Youth Permit and the Voluntary Youth Fishing License.

The Mentored Youth Permit is free and allows youth to fish on Mentored Youth Fishing Days. These special days are held throughout the year and provide opportunities for young anglers to learn and fish with a licensed adult mentor.

To participate in Mentored Youth Fishing Days, anglers 16 and older (adult mentors) must possess a valid Pennsylvania fishing license and be accompanied by a youth who has obtained either a Mentored Youth Permit or a Voluntary Youth Fishing License.

Voluntary Youth Fishing License

The Voluntary Youth Fishing License costs $2.97 ($1.00 cost plus $1.97 in agent/transaction fee). While this license provides the same opportunities as the free Mentored Youth Permit, it offers additional benefits.

For each Voluntary Youth Fishing License purchased, the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission receives $5 back in federal reimbursement funding. This money is then dedicated to youth outreach and education programs, helping to secure the future of fishing in the state.

The Commission encourages anglers to purchase either a Voluntary Youth Fishing License or a Voluntary Youth Fishing License Voucher to support these important initiatives.

Other Permit Options

In addition to the basic fishing license, anglers may need to purchase additional permits depending on their target species and location.

A trout permit is required to fish for trout in Pennsylvania. The cost of this permit is $13 for residents in 2024.

Anglers fishing on Lake Erie or its tributaries must also purchase a Lake Erie permit, which costs $9.97 for residents.

Commercial fishing, fishing derbies, and cast net fishing require separate permits.

Purchasing Licenses and Permits

Fishing licenses and permits can be purchased online at the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission’s website (www.fishandboat.com), at more than 700 license-issuing agents across the state, or at county treasurers’ offices and PFBC offices.

Licenses can be printed immediately upon purchase or saved digitally to a smart device, which serves as proof of possession.

Lost licenses can be replaced at any issuing agent for a fee or reprinted online for free.

Supporting the Future of Fishing

The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission relies on the revenue generated from fishing licenses and permits to fund important programs and initiatives.

By purchasing a fishing license and supporting the Commission’s efforts, anglers are investing in the future of fishing in Pennsylvania.

Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy fishing in Pennsylvania. With the right license and permits, you can explore the state’s diverse waterways and target a variety of fish species.

So grab your rod and reel, get your license, and get ready to experience the thrill of fishing in the Keystone State!