HARRISBURG, Pa. (December 1) – Whether you're looking to get a jump on next season, or you've got holiday gift giving in mind, 2022 Pennsylvania Fishing Licenses, permits, and vouchers are on sale now!
Beginning December 1, 2021, fishing licenses, permits, and vouchers for the 2022 season can be purchased through the HuntFishPA online portal on the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) website, on your smartphone using the FishBoatPA mobile app, or by visiting one of nearly 700 retail license issuing agents. 2022 licenses, permits, and vouchers purchased now are valid immediately for up to 13 months, from December 1, 2021 through December 31, 2022.
"For the past couple of seasons, more people than ever have been seeking out fun and affordable ways to enjoy the outdoors, and fishing has been right at the top of the list," said Tim Schaeffer, PFBC Executive Director. "While anglers will be happy to know the price of a fishing license is the same this year as it was last year, you really get the most value for your dollar when you buy early. That way, you'll be covered for every fishing season for the rest of this year and next year."
Purchasing a fishing license can be done easily, conveniently, and safely online from your computer or smart phone. Licenses may be printed immediately upon purchase or saved digitally to a smart device which serves as proof of possession. While many customers still prefer to purchase fishing licenses in person from local issuing agents, online purchases can save time and help you avoid long lines, especially right before the spring trout season, which begins statewide on April 2, 2022.
In addition to licenses and permits, such as the trout or Lake Erie permits, customers may choose to purchase vouchers that can be given as gifts and be redeemed by recipients.
"Vouchers make great gifts for people who are already active anglers, but they can also be a great way to introduce someone new the sport," added Schaeffer. "If you have a friend or family member who you think would enjoy fishing, but could use a little help getting started in the sport, buying them a license voucher can be the nudge they need to join you on the water this year."
The price of an annual resident fishing license in 2022 is still $22.97. Multi-year options are also available in 3, 5, and 10-year increments. The most popular add-ons, a trout permit and a Lake Erie permit cost $9.97 each, or $15.97 for a combination permit which includes both privileges.
Once again for the 2022 license year, customers can purchase a collectible fishing license button for $11.97. This year's button features a vintage design with a blue and yellow PFBC logo. Unlike previous offerings, fishing license buttons ordered in 2022 will not be customized with the angler's individual license number. Instead, a limited-edition production of 10,000 buttons will be produced, and customers will receive a randomly numbered button between 00001-10000. Please note that buttons are not issued at the time of purchase and will be mailed to the buyer.
In 2022, anglers who visit a license issuing agent in person can receive the Fishing Summary/Boating Handbook free of charge. The book outlines current fishing and boating regulations, seasons and creel limits, and safety information, and includes advertising and coupons. A digital version of the book can be viewed and printed for free on the PFBC website, or viewed on the FishBoatPA mobile app. Customers should note that 2022 Fishing Summary/Boating Handbooks are still being shipped to retail locations in early December and may not be immediately available at all locations. Customers should access the free online version or return to a retail location later for a free printed copy.
Voluntary Permits
Customers who purchase a 2022 fishing license can once again support their favorite PFBC programs through the purchase of voluntary permits for Bass, Musky, Wild Trout/Enhanced Waters, and Habitat/Waterways Conservation. These permits are not required for fishing and carry no additional privileges, but all funds generated through them are reinvested into their respective program. Thanks to the generosity of anglers, the PFBC has invested more than $418,000 into special projects funded by the sale of voluntary permits since 2019.
While youth anglers under age 16 do not require a fishing license, they must have either a Voluntary Youth Fishing License ($2.97) or a free Mentored Youth Fishing Permit to participate in any special youth opportunities throughout the 2022 season. This includes the statewide Mentored Youth Trout Fishing Day on Saturday, March 26, 2022.
The PFBC is a user-funded agency that operates primarily on funds generated through the sale of fishing licenses, boating registrations, and associated fees. The PFBC receives no Pennsylvania General Fund tax revenue to support its programs.
The PFBC reminds anglers and boaters to protect themselves by always wearing a life jacket during the fall and winter months. From November 1 through April 30, all boaters aboard boats less than 16 feet, including all kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards, are required to wear a life jacket. Anglers should also wear a life jacket while ice fishing.
Important 2022 Fishing Dates:
December 1 (2021) – 2022 Pennsylvania Fishing Licenses, permits, and vouchers on sale
March 26, 2022 – Statewide Mentored Youth Trout Day
April 2, 2022 – Statewide Opening Day of Trout Season
November 1, 2021 through April 30, 2022 – Mandatory Life Jacket Requirement in effect
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Media Contact:
Mike Parker
Communications Director
(717) 585-3076
michparker@pa.gov