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Official Website

of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

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    Fishing Basics

    Whether it's your first time casting a line or you are planning your annual fly fishing trip with friends, learn the basics of fishing. From basic gear to finding the best fishing holes in Pennsylvania, we've got you covered.

    Close-up of a man casting his fishing rod out on a lake
    Photo of a 2025 Resident Annual Fishing License with a Trout Permit

    Buy a Fishing License/Permit

    Fishing fun can begin as soon as you have a fishing license and, if needed, a permit for trout fishing or fishing on Lake Erie.

    Buy a Fishing License/Permit
    Wide angle photo of a young boy with a surprised look on his face as he holds up his fishing rod to a pair of adult's hands helping to take the fish off the hook

    Get Started Fishing

    If you're a beginner angler or just looking to expand your fishing knowledge, check out our tips and tricks for a successful and safe adventure.

    Get Started Fishing
    Man holding a fishing rod with a panfish he caught while fishing from the shoreline of Nockamixon Lake

    Register for a Fishing Program

    Join one of our FREE fishing programs! Cast a line and the learn basic skills of fishing from our experts and local partners.

    Register for a Fishing Program
    A close-up of a hand reaching into a tackle box to grab bait to hook onto a fishing rod.

    Fishing Gear

    Get some basic fishing knowledge and learn more about what equipment you will need to get started.

    Fishing Gear
    Cover page of the PFBC Summer Book of Regulations

    Fishing Regulations

    Find what you need to know about where and when you can fish, and the seasons and sizes for catching the many Pennsylvania species.

    Fishing Regulations
    Wide shot of the Susquehanna River from the perspective of the shoreline.

    Where to Fish

    Check out our detailed maps to prep for your next fishing adventure.

    Where to Fish