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Official Website

of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

    The .gov means its official.

    Local, state, and federal government websites often end in .gov. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania government websites and email systems use "pennsylvania.gov" or "pa.gov" at the end of the address. Before sharing sensitive or personal information, make sure you're on an official state website. 

    Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission

    A new year means new adventures! Buy a 2025 fishing license and a gift voucher for someone special!

    Buy 2025 Fishing License Online
    Buy 2025 Fishing License In-Person
    A green, printed 2025 fishing license with a reel of fishing line and a blue life jacket sitting on a holiday background of garland and plaid ribbon

    Give the Gift of the Outdoors!

    Share your passion with someone special. This holiday season, gift a fishing license, fishing permit and/or launch permit and build memories together by the water all year long.

    Know Before You Go

    Get the details on when and where you can cast a line or launch your boat in Pennsylvania.

    Musky caught in a net while PBFC biologist survey Canoe Creek Lake

    Fishing Regulations

    Fishing seasons, minimum sizes, creel limits and regulations for specific waterways.

    Read More
    Family of four, all wearing life jackets, enjoying a boat ride on the Susquehanna River

    Boating Regulations

    Boating safety and regulations for powered and unpowered boats

    Read More
    Three friends wearing life jackets are laughing and having fun while kayaking along a stream in Central Pennsylvania.

    Explore PA Waters

    For those who haven’t experienced the thrill of feeling a tug on the end of their fishing line or the peace of a meandering paddle trip, learn the basics on some of the best ways to take to Pennsylvania's 86,000 miles of flowing water. 

    Learn More

    Angler & Boater Magazine

    Explore Northwest PA!

    From the majestic expanse of Lake Erie to hidden rivers and serene lakes, the region offers a variety of activities to quench your thirst for adventure and relaxation.

    Mandatory Life Jacket Wear

    November 1 through April 30

    Life jackets are required to be worn by each person onboard canoes, kayaks, paddleboards and all boats less than 16 feet in length from November 1, 2024 through April 30, 2025.

    Close-up of a woman buckling her life jacket