Pennsylvania Fishing License Guide (2026)

Pennsylvania requires a fishing license for anyone 16+ years old. PFBC offers a base fishing license with optional trout and Lake Erie permits.

16+
Min Age
Yes
Free Days
$22.97
Resident/yr
$52.97
Non-Res/yr

💰 License Costs (2026)

Resident Licenses

License Type Price
Annual Resident
$22.97

Non-Resident Licenses

License Type Price
Annual Non-Resident
$52.97
1-Day Tourist
$26.97
3-Day Tourist
$26.97
7-Day Tourist
$34.97

Senior & Special Licenses

License Type Price
Senior Resident (65+)
$11.97

Additional Stamps & Permits

Stamp Price Required?
Trout/Salmon Permit
Required for fishing stocked trout waters
$9.97 Required
Lake Erie Permit
Required for Lake Erie and tributaries
$9.97 Optional
Combo Trout + Erie
Discounted combo of both permits
$15.97 Optional
See the complete Pennsylvania cost breakdown →

📍 Where to Buy

🌐

HuntFish.PA.gov ↗

Instant digital license
🏪

Retail Locations

County treasurers, Walmart, sporting goods stores
Explore all Pennsylvania purchase options →

📅 Timing & Free Fishing Days

Free Fishing Days 2026

May
25
Memorial Day Free Fishing Day
All waters
Jul
4
July 4th Free Fishing Day
All waters

License Validity

PA fishing licenses expire on December 31 each year.

Full Pennsylvania free fishing days schedule →

👤 Age Requirements & Exemptions

👶

Under 16 Exemption

Children under 16 can fish for free in Pennsylvania.

👴

Senior Discount (65+)

Residents 65+ pay $11.97 for an annual license.

Permanently Disabled

Free license for permanently disabled PA residents.

Full Pennsylvania exemptions guide →

⚖️ Penalties for Fishing Without a License

$50–$ 200
Fine Range
citation
Offense Type

Summary offense with fines of $50-$200.

Learn more about Pennsylvania fishing penalties →

🔧 How to Get Your License

  1. 1

    Visit the Official Portal

    Go to PFBC Online Licensing ↗

  2. 2

    Select Your License Type

    Choose between resident/non-resident, duration, and water type based on your needs.

  3. 3

    Complete Payment & Download

    Pay online and receive your digital license instantly. You may also print a physical copy.