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of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

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    Agency Overview

    ​​The mission of the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission is: to protect, conserve, and enhance the Commonwealth's aquatic resources and provide fishing and boating opportunities. 

    Close-up of a flowing stream with PFBC Biologist sampling fish from the stream in the background.

    Governance

    The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission is an independent Commonwealth commission comprised of 10 Commissioners appointed by the Governor and approved by the Legislature. The Boating Advisory Board advises and makes recommendations to the Commission.

    Funding

    The Commission is a user-funded agency receiving no PA General Fund tax revenue to support its programs. The Commission operates out of two special funds: the Fish Fund and the Boat Fund. Revenue for the Fish Fund is generated from sales of fishing licenses and fees (about 66%) and federal funds (about 22%) obtained from taxes on fishing-related items. Revenue from the Boat Fund is predominantly generated from boat registration/titling fees, refunds of liquid fuels taxes on gas used by motorboats and federal aid.

    The Fish and Boat Commission is also generously supported by citizens interested in maintaining and enhancing access to Pennsylvania's waters by donating to the Conservation Acquisition Partnership Program (CAP). 

    Grants

    In its role as leader of aquatic preservation in the Commonwealth, the Commission supports and administers an extensive grants program aimed at conserving and enhancing opportunities for fishing, boating and aquatic resource conservation. The program aims to develop and support partnerships that seek to ensure robust and vibrant life and opportunities on and around Pennsylvania's waterways. 

    Reports

    Review Annual Reports provided by the Commission and other partners. You can also view our Strategic and Quarterly Reports summarizing the Commission's operational and strategic goals.

    Review Agency Reports Here

    Commission Offices & Locations

    Agency Headquarters

    1601 Elmerton Avenue
    Harrisburg, PA 17106
    The public can also buy fishing licenses, launch permits and register boats.

    717-705-7800

    Executive Office (HBG HQ)

    Executive Director
    Chief Counsel
        Public Access and Property Services
    Policy, Planning, and Communications
    Bureau of Law Enforcement

    Office of Administration (HBG HQ)

    Bureau of Administration
    Bureau of Boating
    Bureau of Information Technology
    Human Resources
    Bureau of Outreach, Education, and Marketing

    Centre Region Office

    595 E. Rolling Ridge Dr.
    Bellefonte (Centre County)
    814-359-5124
    ​*The Centre Region office also sells fishing licenses, launch permits and registers boats.

    Office of Field Operations (Centre Region Office)

    Bureau of Engineering
    Bureau of Fisheries
    Bureau of Hatcheries