Fishing is a beloved outdoor recreational activity in Pennsylvania, with over 1 million licensed anglers across the state. The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) oversees fishing regulations and sets license requirements for both residents and non-residents. To legally fish in PA, most anglers aged 16 and older must purchase an annual or temporary fishing license each calendar year.
Walmart is one of the most convenient places for PA residents and visitors to obtain fishing licenses. This comprehensive guide provides an overview of Walmart fishing license options and prices in Pennsylvania for 2024, along with additional details on regulations, purchasing options, and frequently asked questions.
Pennsylvania Fishing License Costs at Walmart in 2024
Walmart fishing license prices in Pennsylvania closely match the rates set by the PFBC. Additional service fees may apply. Here are the current fishing license costs at Walmart stores in PA for 2024:
- Annual resident license (age 16–64): $22.97
- Senior resident annual license (65+): $11.97
- 1-day resident license: $11.97
- Non-resident annual license: $52.97
Non-resident tourist licenses:
- 1-day: $26.97
- 3-day: $26.97
- 7-day: $34.97
Licenses for those under 16 are free in Pennsylvania. Discounts are also available for certain groups, like disabled veterans, seniors, and more. See the PFBC website for details.
Additional Pennsylvania Fishing License Details
Beyond the standard fishing license, there are some additional licenses and permits required for certain situations in Pennsylvania:
- A trout permit is needed for anyone 16+ to fish for trout in PA waters for $9.97 annually
- A Lake Erie permit is required to fish in Lake Erie, Presque Isle Bay, and peninsula waters for $9.97 annually
- Special fishing derby permits must be obtained by organizers of fishing events with prizes
- Commercial fishing licenses are required for those selling catches or operating charter boats
See the full details on the PFBC website.
Where to Purchase a PA Fishing License
You can purchase a PA fishing license in person at over 700 licensing agents across the state including Walmart, bait & tackle shops, sporting goods stores, county treasurer offices, and more.
The PFBC also allows anglers to easily buy fishing licenses online through their licensing platform. You can have your license emailed or printed after purchase.
Why Get Your License at Walmart?
Beyond providing a quick and convenient license purchasing option, there are a few key benefits to obtaining your PA fishing license at Walmart:
- Open extended hours: Most Walmart stores are open late at night and 24/7 in some cases, allowing after-work shopping
- One-stop shopping: You can purchase your fishing tackle, bait, gear and license all in one trip
- Widespread locations: With over 200 Walmart stores across Pennsylvania, location access is unmatched
So when you’re gearing up for a fishing trip, consider stopping by Walmart to grab everything you need, including your license!
Fishing Seasons and Limits in Pennsylvania
Once properly licensed, understanding fishing seasons and regulations is key to staying legal on PA waters.
Season Dates
- The regular inland waters fishing season opens on the first Saturday after April 11 and closes December 31 each year
- The 2024 trout season kicks off at 8 a.m. on Saturday April 13 and ends September 2
- Special regulation trout waters have extended seasons from March 1 through September 2
Possession Limits
- Most inland waters have a daily limit of 8 trout (combined species) per licensed angler
- Special regulation waters have lower limits; consult the PFBC website
- Strict limits also apply for bass, walleye, musky, crappie, catfish, and other species
See the PFBC website for full details on seasons, size limits, and daily possession limits for all fish species in the state.
Fishing Without a License: Fines & Penalties
Fishing without a valid PA fishing license or permitting another person to use your license carries fines between $100 and $200 for a first offense.
Subsequent offenses quickly escalate to $200–$500 fines. The PFBC may also seize fishing equipment being used illegally.
Other penalties can include:
- Up to 30 days imprisonment
- Paying 2 times the cost of the license fee
- Reimbursing the state up to $20 per illegally caught fish
Lending a license to another person carries fines between $100 and $300.
So properly licensing yourself is critical to avoid expensive penalties!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a fishing license at Walmart in Pennsylvania?
Yes, you can purchase Pennsylvania fishing licenses at most Walmart stores across the state. Walmart is an authorized agent of the PFBC for selling fishing licenses.
How much does a fishing license cost at Walmart in PA?
The costs at Walmart match the rates set by the PFBC. For 2024, an annual resident license is $22.97, a senior annual license is $11.97, and non-resident licenses range from $26.97 to $52.97 depending on the duration.
Do I need any additional permits beyond a basic fishing license?
Yes, separate permits are required for trout fishing ($9.97), fishing Lake Erie ($9.97), participating in fishing derbies, and commercial fishing activities. Check the PFBC website for full requirements.
Can I buy my PA fishing license online?
Absolutely! The PFBC has an online licensing platform at pa.wildlifelicense.com where you can purchase and instantly print or display licenses on your mobile device.
At what age do I need to purchase a fishing license in Pennsylvania?
Most anglers aged 16 and older require an annual or temporary fishing license. Children under 16 can fish for free with a Voluntary Youth License or when accompanied by a licensed adult.
Key Takeaways
- Most anglers 16 and older need an annual or tourist PA fishing license to legally fish
- Prices at Walmart match state resident and non-resident fishing license costs
- Additional permits required for trout, Lake Erie, special events, and commercial fishing
- Buy online or from over 700 licensing agents, including Walmart stores
- Walmart offers extended hours and tackle/gear shopping convenience
- Know the season dates, limits, and fines to fish legally on PA waters
Pennsylvania offers world-class fishing opportunities on over 19,000 miles of waterways. Be sure to properly license yourself through Walmart or other approved agents each year for convenient access to the state’s abundant angling resources.
Let me know if you have any other questions about fishing licenses in Pennsylvania!
