Pennsylvania · Fishing license · Age
What age do you need a fishing license in Pennsylvania?
From 16 on, with no upper limit.
The ages that matter
Under 16
No license needed
Children can fish without one. Everything else still applies though — limits, sizes and seasons do not change with age.
16 and up
License required
Carry it with you while fishing.
65 and up
Cheaper, not free
Pennsylvania has no age exemption. Residents get a reduced rate instead: Resident, annual (16 to 64) at $27.97, Senior resident, annual (65 and up) at $14.47, Senior resident, lifetime (65 and up) at $86.97.
How PFBC words it
PFBC: "A current license, on their person, is required of persons age 16 and over to fish or angle for any species of fish." There is no upper age exemption in Pennsylvania — residents 65 and over get a reduced price instead.
Quoted rather than paraphrased. With rules that carry a fine, the exact wording is the point.
Other ways to be exempt
Age is one route. PFBC lists these as well.
- Landowners and family members living on their land year-round, fishing that land
- People who are totally blind, or whose impairment prevents casting, retrieving, baiting or removing fish — one legal device, and within 10 feet of it
- Pennsylvania residents on active military duty, stationed outside the state and home on authorised leave, carrying proof
- Holders of a 1-day tourist license: no trout permit or Lake Erie permit needed
