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of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

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    Paddlesports

    Pennsylvania’s countless miles of rivers and streams and thousands of lakes, reservoirs and ponds provide seemingly endless opportunities for paddlers to explore. Take family and friends on a kayaking, canoeing or stand-up paddleboarding adventure and grab the rod and tackle box to turn it into a fishing expedition. The opportunities await.

    Three friends wearing life jackets are laughing and having fun while kayaking along a stream in Central Pennsylvania.
    Close-up of a 2025 unpowered boat registration sticker

    Apply for New Unpowered Boat Registration

    Unpowered boat registration is required for boats without motors that do not have a launch permit.

    Apply for New Unpowered Boat Registration
    Close-up of a Launch Permit sticker with expiration of December 31

    Buy a Launch Permit

    PFBC Launch Permits are required for unpowered boats that are not registered and plan to launch at a PFBC or State Park/Forest boating access.

    Buy a Launch Permit

    Launch Permit vs. Unpowered Boat Registration

    Learn about the benefits of registering your unpowered boat vs. purchasing a launch permit.

    Launch Permit vs. Unpowered Boat Registration
    Two women wearing life jackets while carrying a kayak to the edge of a lake to prepare to launch.

    Paddlesports Basics

    Learn basic tips for a safe and fun paddling adventure

    Paddlesports Basics
    Man wearing a life jacket and cold weather gear uses his paddle to turn his kayak in the water

    Paddlesports Safety

    Learn safe practices for paddling before you head out on the water.

    Paddlesports Safety
    Close-up of the front of a kayak with a life jacket and a cell phone in a dry bag about to launch into a stream.

    Paddlesports Equipment

    Learn about the safety equipment needed for paddling.

    Paddlesports Equipment