The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (Commission) is the Commonwealth agency with the authority to enforce Title 30 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes (The Fish and Boat Code). In addition, the Commission may promulgate such rules and regulations consistent with the provisions of the Fish and Boat Code. Before a regulation becomes final, the Commission must first publish a notice of proposed rulemaking in the Pennsylvania Bulletin seeking comments, objections, or suggestions from the public. Comments are accepted for at least 30 days. After the public comment period, the Commission considers the proposed amendment on final rulemaking. If adopted on final rulemaking, the amendment becomes effective on the date of publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin or other date specified by the Commission.
The information provided on this webpage is a summary of regulatory proposals that are being considered by the Commission, as well as final regulations. The purpose of posting this information is to make the public aware of the issues and to elicit public feedback on proposals. Comments on the proposals provide the Commission with valuable information and perspectives that will be considered and possibly incorporated into content or editorial changes. We appreciate your time and your commitment to Pennsylvania’s natural resources. The graphic within each topic will help you follow the change through the regulatory process.
Submit a Comment
If you would like to submit a comment, please send an email to RA-pfbcregulations@pa.gov.
View Regulation Changes
- NOTICE - Qualified Endangered and Threatened Species; Surveyor Requirements
- BOATING - Proposed Rulemaking; Capacity Plates
- BOATING - Proposed Rulemaking; Manufacturer Installed Equipment
- FISHING - Proposed Rulemaking; Seasons, Sizes and Creel Limits
- NOTICE - Special Regulation Designations; October 2024
- NOTICE - Classification of Class A Wild Trout Streams; Proposed Additions - October 2024
- NOTICE - Classification of Wild Trout Streams; Proposed Additions - October 2024
- BOATING - Proposed Rulemaking; Boat Rental Businesses
- FISHING - Proposed Rulemaking; Special Fishing Regulations; Chapman Dam Reservoir - July 2024
- FISHING - Proposed Rulemaking; Special Fishing Regulations; Glade Run Lake - July 2024
- NOTICE - Special Regulation Designations; July 2024
- NOTICE - Classification of Class A Wild Trout Streams; Additions - July 2024
- NOTICE - Classification of Wild Trout Streams; Additions - July 2024
- NOTICE - Temporary Change to Fishing Regulations; Lake Frances, Luzerne County
- NOTICE - Temporary Change to Fishing Regulations; Delaware River, West Branch Delaware River and Estuary
- NOTICE - Lake Erie Creel Limits for Walleye and Yellow Perch - 2024
- NOTICE - Lake Erie Commercial Fishing - 2024
- NOTICE - Temporary Change to Fishing Regulations; Tobyhanna Lake, Monroe County
- NOTICE - Boat and Marine Forfeiture: Maximum Amount 2024
- NOTICE - Mentored Youth Fishing Day Program; Trout 2024
- NOTICE - Changes to List of Wild Trout Streams; April 2024
- NOTICE - Temporary Change to Fishing Regulations; Kahle Lake, Clarion and Venango Counties
- NOTICE - Temporary Change to Fishing Regulations; Delaware River, West Branch Delaware River and Estuary
- NOTICE - Exemptions to Allow for the Continued Stocking of Class A Stream Sections
- FISHING - Final Rulemaking; Endangered Species
- BOATING - Final Rulemaking; Boating Restrictions
- NOTICE - Approved Courses of Instruction in Boating Safety Education 2024
- NOTICE - Changes to List of Class A wild trout waters; January 2024
- NOTICE - Classification of Wild Trout Streams; Additions and Revisions; January 2024
- NOTICE - Triploid Grass Carp Permit Applications
- NOTICE - Special Regulations Designations; October 2023
- FISHING - Final Rulemaking; Special Fishing Regulations
- FISHING - Final Rulemaking; Special Fishing Regulations
- BOATING - Final Rulemaking; Operator Provided Equipment; Special Regulation Counties
- BOATING - Final Rulemaking; Special Regulations Counties
- NOTICE - Changes to List of Class A Wild Trout Waters; October 2023
- NOTICE - Classification of Wild Trout Streams; Proposed Additions; October 2023
- BOATING - Final Rulemaking; Special Regulations Counties
- BOATING - Final Rulemaking; Special Regulations Counties
- BOATING - Final Rulemaking; Boating Restrictions
- NOTICE - Change to Special Regulation Designations; Kahle Lake
- NOTICE - Changes to List of Class A Wild Trout Waters; July 2023
- NOTICE - Classification of Wild Trout Streams; Proposed Additions; July 2023
- NOTICE - Triploid Grass Carp Permit Application
- FISHING - Final Rulemaking - License, Permit and Issuing Agent Fees
- BOATING - Final Rulemaking - Boat Registration and Numbering
- NOTICE - Changes to Wilderness Trout Streams; April 2023
- BOATING - Final Rulemaking - Registration of Boats
- NOTICE - Changes to List of Class A Wild Trout Waters; April 2023
- NOTICE - Classification of Wild Trout Streams; Proposed Additions; April 2023
- NOTICE - Exemptions to Allow for the Continued Stocking of Class A Stream Sections
- FISHING - Final Rulemaking - Special Fishing Regulations - Sheppard-Meyers
- NOTICE - Temporary Change to Fishing Regulations; Belmont Lake
- FISHING - Final Rulemaking - Propagation and Introduction of Fish into Commonwealth Waters
- FISHING - Final Rulemaking - Atlantic Striped Bass Fishing
- BOATING - Final Rulemaking - Treasure Lake, Clearfield County
- BOATING - Final Rulemaking - Allowable Electric Motor Speeds & Horsepower Restrictions
- FISHING - Final Rulemaking - Boat Tile, License, & Permit Fees
- FISHING - Final Rulemaking - Fishing License, Permit & Boat Registration Fees
- BOATING - Final Rulemaking - Operator Provided Equipment - Fire Extinguishers
- FISHING - Final Rulemaking - Seasons, Sizes & Creel Limits - American Shad
- SPECIAL FISHING REGULATIONS - Little Chartiers Creek
- SPECIAL FISHING REGULATIONS - Penns Creek
NOTICE - Qualified Endangered and Threatened Species; Surveyor Requirments
Under 58 Pa. Code § 75.5, a surveyor must first be deemed qualified by the Commission to conduct surveys for endangered or threatened species or their habitat in connection with an application for a proposed or planned development activity. Individuals who wish to be qualified by the Commission to conduct surveys for endangered or threatened species must demonstrate to the Commission's satisfaction that they meet the qualified surveyor requirements. The Executive Director has approved the updated qualified surveyor requirements.
48A-358
This proposed rulemaking would update the Commission's regulations relating to capacity plates. This proposed rulemaking will be considered during the Commission meeting on October 21, 2024. The final rulemaking, if approved, will go into effect upon publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin.
- PDF of Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- COMMENT PERIOD: September 7 - October 7, 2024
BOATING - Manufacturer Installed Equipment
48A-357
This proposed rulemaking would update the Commission's regulations relating to engine cut-off switch (ECOS) safety standards per the Cooperative Agreement for Recreational Boating Safety with the United States Coast Guard (USGC). This proposed rulemaking will be considered during the Commission meeting on October 21, 2024. The final rulemaking, if approved, will go into effect upon publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin.
- PDF of Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- COMMENT PERIOD: September 7 - October 7, 2024
FISHING - Seasons, Sizes and Creel Limits
48A-356
This proposed rulemaking would update the Commission's regulations relating to Atlantic striped bass fishing in the Delaware River, West Branch Delaware River and River Estuary. This proposed rulemaking will be considered during the Commission meeting on October 21, 2024. The final rulemaking, if approved, will go into effect on January 1, 2025.
- PDF of Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- COMMENT PERIOD: September 7 - October 7, 2024
NOTICE - Special Regulation Designations; October 2024
The Commission has approved guidelines regarding encouraging public participation on possible changes to the designation of streams, stream sections or lakes for special regulation programs. Under 58 Pa. Code Chapter 65 (relating to special fishing regulations), the Commission designates or redesignates certain streams, stream sections and lakes as being subject to special fishing regulations. The Commission will consider adding/removing waters subject to special fishing regulations during the Commission meeting on October 21, 2024.
- PDF of Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- COMMENT PERIOD: August 24 - September 23, 2024
NOTICE - Proposed Changes to List of Class A Wild Trout Waters; October 2024
It is the Commission's policy to manage self-sustaining Class A wild trout populations as a renewable natural resource to conserve that resource and the angling it provides. Criteria has been developed for Class A wild trout fisheries that are species specific. The Notice outlines wild trout biomass classification criteria by species and the proposed addition of new stream sections to the list of Class A wild trout streams which will be considered during the Commission meeting on October 21, 2024.
- PDF of Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- COMMENT PERIOD: August 10 - September 9, 2024
NOTICE - Classification of Wild Trout Streams; Proposed Additions; October 2024
It is the policy of the Commission to accurately identify and classify stream sections supporting naturally reproducing populations of trout as wild trout streams. The Commission's Fisheries Management Division maintains the list of wild trout streams. The Executive Director, with approval of the Commission, will publish the list of wild trout streams in the Pennsylvania Bulletin and solicit public comments. The Notice outlines the proposed addition of streams or portions of streams to the Commission's list of wild trout streams, which will be considered during the Commission meeting on October 21, 2024.
- PDF of Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- COMMENT PERIOD: August 10 - September 9, 2024
BOATING - Boat Rental Businesses
48A-355
This proposed rulemaking would update the Commission's regulations relating to boat rental businesses and generally promote boating safety. This proposed rulemaking will be considered during the Commission meeting on October 21, 2024. The final rulemaking, if approved, will go into effect on January 1, 2025.
- PDF of Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- COMMENT PERIOD: June 29 - July 29, 2024
SPECIAL FISHING REGULATIONS - Chapman Dam Reservoir
48A-354
Since 2019, Glade Run Lake has been managed under miscellaneous special regulations. The intent was to facilitate rapid development of the warm-water and cool-water fish populations. Given the success of the development, the Commission is proposing it be removed from the miscellaneous special regulations in favor of management of all species with Commonwealth inland waters regulations, as outlined in the published Proposed Rulemaking. This rulemaking was considered during the Commission meeting on July 22, 2024. The final rulemaking will go into effect on January 1, 2025.
- PDF of Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- COMMENT PERIOD: June 22 - July 22, 2024
- PDF of Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
SPECIAL FISHING REGULATIONS - Glade Run Lake
48A-353
Since 2017, Glade Run Lake has been managed under miscellaneous special regulations. The intent was to facilitate rapid development of the warm-water and cool-water fish populations. Given the success of the development, the Commission is proposing it be removed from the miscellaneous special regulations in favor of management under §§ 65.9 and 65.11 (relating to big bass; and panfish enhancement), as outlined in the published Proposed Rulemaking. This rulemaking was considered during the Commission meeting on July 22, 2024. The final rulemaking will go into effect on January 1, 2025.
- PDF of Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- COMMENT PERIOD: June 22 - July 22, 2024
- PDF of Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
NOTICE - Special Regulation Designations; July 2024
The Commission has approved guidelines regarding encouraging public participation on possible changes to the designation of streams, stream sections or lakes for special regulation programs. Under 58 Pa. Code Chapter 65 (relating to special fishing regulations), the Commission designates or redesignates certain streams, stream sections and lakes as being subject to special fishing regulations. The Commission approved adding/removing waters subject to special fishing regulations during the Commission meeting on July 22, 2024.
- PDF of Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- COMMENT PERIOD: June 1 - June 30, 2024
- PDF of Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
NOTICE - Changes to List of Class A Wild Trout Waters; July 2024
It is the Commission's policy to manage self-sustaining Class A wild trout populations as a renewable natural resource to conserve that resource and the angling it provides. Criteria has been developed for Class A wild trout fisheries that are species specific. The Notice outlines wild trout biomass classification criteria by species and the addition of new stream sections to the list of Class A wild trout streams which was considered during the Commission meeting on July 22, 2024.
- PDF of Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- COMMENT PERIOD - May 18 - June 16, 2024
- PDF of Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
NOTICE - Classification of Wild Trout Streams; Additions; July 2024
It is the policy of the Commission to accurately identify and classify stream sections supporting naturally reproducing populations of trout as wild trout streams. The Commission's Fisheries Management Division maintains the list of wild trout streams. The Executive Director, with approval of the Commission, will publish the list of wild trout streams in the Pennsylvania Bulletin and solicit public comments. The Notice outlines the addition of streams or portions of streams to the Commission's list of wild trout streams, which was considered during the Commission meeting on July 22, 2024.
- PDF of Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- COMMENT PERIOD: May 18 - June 16, 2024
- PDF of Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
NOTICE - Temporary Change to Fishing Regulations; Delaware River, West Branch Delaware River and Estuary
The Commission has taken immediate action to modify temporary fishing regulations at Delaware River, West Branch Delaware River and Estuary to reduce the daily limit and adjust the legal harvestable length slot limit.
NOTICE - Lake Erie Creel Limits for Walleye and Yellow Perch - 2024
The Executive Director of the Commission has determined the daily limits for walleye and yellow perch in the Commonwealth waters of Lake Erie. The daily limit for walleye has been set at 6, while the daily limit for yellow perch has been set at 30. Additional details are outlined in the Notice below.
NOTICE - Lake Erie Commercial Fishing - 2024
The Executive Director of the Commission has determined the annual total allowable commercial catch for walleye and yellow perch in the Commonwealth of Lake Erie. The limit for walleye has been set at 4,000 pounds, while the limit for yellow perch has been set at 100,000 pounds. Additional details are outlined in the Notice below.
NOTICE - Boat and Marine Forfeiture; Maximum Amount
The Commission is responsible for determining the annual maximum amount for boat and marine forfeiture sales based on the maximum amount in the year prior, and adjusting to reflect the change in Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers in the United States. The Commission has set the maximum for 2024 at $7,740, as reflected in the published Notice.
NOTICE - Mentored Youth Fishing Day Program; Trout 2024
The Commission has designated March 30, 2024, as Mentored Youth Fishing Day for trout, beginning at 8 a.m. and ending at 7:30 p.m. in stocked trout waters designated under 58 Pa. Code § 63.3 relating to fishing in stocked trout waters. This designation is effective upon publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin.
NOTICE - Classification of Wild Trout Streams; Proposed Additions and Revisions; April 2024
It is the policy of the Commission to accurately identify and classify stream sections supporting naturally reproducing populations of trout as wild trout streams. The Commission's Fisheries Management Division maintains the list of wild trout streams. The Executive Director, with approval of the Commission, will publish the list of wild trout streams in the Pennsylvania Bulletin and solicit public comments. The Notice outlines the proposed addition of streams or portions of streams to the Commission's list of wild trout streams, which was considered during the Commission meeting on April 29, 2024.
- PDF of Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- COMMENT PERIOD: February 24 - April 18
- PDF of Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
NOTICE - Temporary Change to Fishing Regulations; Delaware River, West Branch Delaware River and Estuary
The Commission has taken immediate action to modify temporary fishing regulations at Delaware River, West Branch Delaware River and Estuary. This action is being taken to meet the requirements of the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC).
NOTICE - Proposed Exemptions to Allow for the Continued Stocking of Class A Stream Sections
The Commission determines whether to allow trout stocking to continue on its Class A wild trout streams. This Notice outlines the proposed exemption which was considered during the Commission meeting on January 22, 2024.
- PDF of Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- COMMENT PERIOD: December 23 - January 22, 2024
48A-352
This final rulemaking updates and further clarifies the Commission's regulations pertaining endangered species; threatened species; and candidate species. This rulemaking was considered during the Commission meeting on January 22, 2024. The final rulemaking will go into effect upon publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin.
- PDF of publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- COMMENT PERIOD: December 9 - January 8, 2024
- PDF of publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
BOATING - Final Rulemaking - Boating Restrictions
48A-347
This rulemaking updates the Commission's regulations pertaining to allowable electric motor speeds and clarify horsepower restrictions. This rulemaking was considered during the Commission meeting on January 22, 2024. The final rulemaking will go into effect upon publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin.
- PDF of publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- COMMENT PERIOD: December 9 - January 8, 2024
- PDF of publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
NOTICE - Changes to List of Class A Wild Trout Waters; January 2024
It is the Commission's policy to manage self-sustaining Class A wild trout populations as a renewable natural resource to conserve that resource and the angling it provides. Criteria has been developed for Class A wild trout fisheries that are species specific. The Notice outlines wild trout biomass classification criteria by species and the addition of new stream sections to the list of Class A wild trout streams which was considered during the Commission meeting on January 22, 2024.
- PDF of Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- COMMENT PERIOD: November 18 - December 18, 2023
- PDF of Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
NOTICE - Classification of Wild Trout Streams; Additions and Revisions; January 2024
The Commission maintains the wild trout streams program where stream remoteness and populations of naturally reproducing trout combine to offer sport fishing opportunities for anglers in a remote setting. This Notice outlines the proposed additions and revisions of streams or portions of streams to the Commission's list of wild trout streams, which was considered during the Commission meeting on January 22, 2024.
- PDF of Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- COMMENT PERIOD: November 18 - December 18, 2023
- PDF of Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
NOTICE - Triploid Grass Carp Permit Application
The Commission may issue permits to stock triploid grass carp in Commonwealth waters. Triploid grass carp are sterile fish that may, in appropriate circumstances, help control aquatic vegetation. The Commission seeks public input with respect to any proposed stockings of triploid grass carp in waters having a surface area of more than 5 acres.
- PDF of Notice published in Pennsylvania Bulletin
- COMMENT PERIOD: November 4 - November 14, 2023
NOTICE - Special Regulation Designations; October 2023
The Commission has approved guidelines regarding encouraging public participation on possible changes to the designation of streams, stream sections or lakes for special regulation programs. Under 58 Pa. Code Chapter 65 (relating to special fishing regulations), the Commission designates or redesignates certain streams, stream sections and lakes as being subject to special fishing regulations. This Notice extends the limit to one stream managed under the catch and release fly-fishing only regulation, and was considered during the Commission meeting on October 23, 2023.
- PDF of Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- COMMENT PERIOD: September 16 - October 16, 2023
- PDF of Notices published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
FISHING - Special Fishing Regulations
48A-351
This rulemaking updates and further clarifies language in § 65.26 (relating to extended trout season). This rulemaking was considered during the Commission meeting on October 23, 2023. The final rulemaking will go into effect upon publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin.
- PDF of Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- COMMENT PERIOD: September 2 - October 2, 2023
- PDF of publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
FISHING - Special Fishing Regulations
48A-350
This rulemaking updates the Commission's regulations pertaining to implementation of miscellaneous special regulations on the 12 stream sections that would manage brown trout with catch and release regulations. This rulemaking was considered during the Commission meeting on October 23, 2023. The final rulemaking will go into effect upon publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin.
- PDF of Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- COMMENT PERIOD: September 2 - October 2, 2023
- PDF of publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
BOATING - Operator Provided Equipment - Special Regulations Counties
48A-349
This rulemaking updates the Commission's regulations pertaining to personal flotation devices. This rulemaking was considered during the Commission meeting on October 23, 2023. The final rulemaking will go into effect upon publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin.
- PDF of Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- COMMENT PERIOD: September 2 - October 2, 2023
- PDF of Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
BOATING - Special Regulations Counties
48A-348
This final rulemaking updates the Commission's regulations pertaining to Susquehanna River, Lake Frederick, located in Dauphin County. This rulemaking was considered during the Commission meeting on October 23, 2023. The final rulemaking will go into effect upon publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin.
- PDF of Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- COMMENT PERIOD: September 2 - October 2, 2023
- PDF of Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
NOTICE - Proposed Changes to List of Class A Wild Trout Waters; October 2023
It is the Commission's policy to manage self-sustaining Class A wild trout populations as a renewable natural resource to conserve that resource and the angling it provides. Criteria has been developed for Class A wild trout fisheries that are species specific. The Notice outlines wild trout biomass classification criteria by species and the addition of new stream sections to the list of Class A wild trout streams which were considered during the Commission meeting on October 23, 2023.
- PDF of Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- COMMENT PERIOD: August 19 - September 18, 2023
- PDF of Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
NOTICE - Classification of Wilderness Trout Streams; Proposed Additions; October 2023
The Commission maintains the wilderness trout streams program where stream remoteness and populations of naturally reproducing trout combine to offer sport fishing opportunities for anglers in a remote setting. This Notice outlines the proposed addition of streams or portions of streams to the Commission's list of wilderness trout streams, which was considered during the Commission meeting on October 23, 2023.
- PDF of the Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- COMMENT PERIOD: August 19 - September 18, 2023
- PDF of the Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
BOATING - Final Rulemaking - Special Regulations Counties
48A-346
This rulemaking updates the Commission's regulations pertaining to Halfway Lake at R.B. Winter State Park, located in Union County. This rulemaking was considered during the Commission meeting on October 23, 2023. The final rulemaking will go into effect upon publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin.
- PDF of publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- COMMENT PERIOD: August 19 - September 18, 2023
- PDF of publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
BOATING - Final Rulemaking - Special Regulations Counties
48A-345
This rulemaking updates the Commission's regulations pertaining to Allegheny River Reservoir, also known as Kinzua Dam located in both McKean County and Warren County. This proposed rulemaking was considered during the Commission meeting on October 23, 2023. The final rulemaking will go into effect upon publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin.
- PDF of publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- COMMENT PERIOD: August 19 - September 18, 2023
- PDF of publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
BOATING - Final Rulemaking - Boating Restrictions
48A-344
This rulemaking updates the Commission's regulations by eliminating redundant regulations. This rulemaking was considered during the Commission meeting on October 23, 2023. The final rulemaking will go into effect upon publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin.
- PDF of publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD: August 19 - September 18, 2023
- PDF of publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
NOTICE - Special Regulation Designations; July 2023
The Commission has approved guidelines regarding encouraging public participation on possible changes to the designation of streams, stream sections or lakes for special regulation programs. Under 58 Pa. Code Chapter 65 (relating to special fishing regulations), the Commission designates or redesignates certain streams, stream sections and lakes as being subject to special fishing regulations. The Notice proposing the removal of a water from its list of "big bass regulation" was approved during the Commission meeting on July 24, 2023.
- PDF of proposed Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD: June 10, 2023 - July 10, 2023
- PDF of Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
NOTICE - Proposed Changes to List of Class A Wild Trout Waters; July 2023
It is the Commission's policy to manage self-sustaining Class A wild trout populations as a renewable natural resource to conserve that resource and the angling it provides. Criteria has been developed for Class A wild trout fisheries that are species specific. The Notice outlines wild trout biomass classification criteria by species and the addition of new stream sections to the list of Class A wild trout streams which was approved during the Commission meeting on July 24, 2023.
- PDF of Proposed Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- PUPBLIC COMMENT PERIOED: May 20, 2023 - June 19, 2023
- PDF of Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
NOTICE - Classification of Wilderness Trout Streams; Additions; July 2023
The Commission maintains the wilderness trout streams program where stream remoteness and populations of naturally reproducing trout combine to offer sport fishing opportunities for anglers in a remote setting. This Notice outlines the proposed addition of streams or portions of streams to the Commission's list of wilderness trout streams, which was approved during the Commission meeting on July 24, 2023.
- PDF of proposed Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- Public Comment Period May 20, 2023 - June 19, 2023
- PDF of Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
NOTICE - Triploid Grass Carp Permit Application
The Commission may issue permits to stock triploid grass carp in Commonwealth waters. Triploid grass carp are sterile fish that may, in appropriate circumstances, help control aquatic vegetation. The Commission seeks public input with respect to any proposed stockings of triploid grass carp in waters having a surface area of more than 5 acres.
- PDF of Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD: May 13 - May 23, 2023
FISHING - Final Rulemaking - License, Permit, and Issuing Agent Fees
48A-343
This rulemaking updates the Commission's regulations pertaining to the fees of fishing licenses and permits. A public hearing was held on April 24 at 11:30 AM. The final rulemaking will go into effect on December 1, 2023.
- PDF of Proposed Rulemaking published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD: April 15 - May 15, 2023
- PDF of Public Hearing Notice
- PDF of Rulemaking published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
BOATING - Rulemaking - Boat Registration and Numbering
48A-341
This rulemaking updates the Commission's regulations pertaining to registration and titling of boats.
- PDF of Proposed Rulemaking published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD: March 25 - April 26, 2023
- Commissioners approved this Proposed Rulemaking on July 24, 2023. It will go into effect upon publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin.
- PDF of Final Rulemaking published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
NOTICE - Classification of Wilderness Trout Streams; Additions; April 2023
The Commission maintains the wilderness trout streams program where stream remoteness and populations of naturally reproducing trout combine to offer sport fishing opportunities for anglers in a remote setting. This Notice outlines the addition of streams or portions of streams to the Commission's list of wilderness trout streams, which was considered and approved during the Commission meeting on April 24, 2023.
- PDF of Proposed Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD: March 10 - April 10, 2022
- PDF of Final Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
BOATING - Rulemaking - Registration of Boats
48A-342
This rulemaking updates the Commission's regulations to simplify the boat registration process and provide better customer service.
- PDF of Proposed Rulemaking published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD: March 3 - April 3, 2023
- Commissioners approved this Proposed Rulemaking on July 24, 2023. It will go into effect upon publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin.
- PDF of Final Rulemaking published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
NOTICE - Proposed Changes to List of Class A Wild Trout Waters; April 2023
It is the Commission's policy to manage self-sustaining Class A wild trout populations as a renewable natural resource to conserve that resource and the angling it provides. Criteria has been developed for Class A wild trout fisheries that are species specific. The Notice outlines wild trout biomass classification criteria by species and the addition of new stream sections to the list of Class A wild trout streams which was approved during the Commission meeting on April 24, 2023.
- Opens In A New WindowPDF of Proposed Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD: February 10 - March 12, 2023
- PDF of Final Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
NOTICE - Classification of Wild Trout Streams; Proposed Additions; April 2023
The listing of a stream section as a wild trout stream is a biological designation that does not determine how it is managed. The Commission relies upon many factors in determining the appropriate management of streams. This Notice outlines the proposed addition of streams or portions of streams to the Commission's list of wild trout streams, which will be considered during the Commission meeting on April 24, 2023.
- PDF of Proposed Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD: February 10 - March 12, 2023
- PDF of Final Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
NOTICE - Exemptions to Allow for the Continued Stocking of Class A Stream Sections
The Commission determines whether to allow trout stocking to continue on its Class A wild trout streams. This Notice outlines the proposed exemptions which will be considered during the Commission meeting on January 23-24, 2023.
- PDF of Proposed Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD: December 10 - January 10, 2023
- Commissioners approved this Proposed Notice on January 23, 2023. It will go into effect upon publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin.
- PDF of Final Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
FISHING - Final Rulemaking - Special Fishing Regulations - Sheppard-Meyers Reservoir
48A-340
This rulemaking updates the Commission's regulations to allow for the harvest of trout under Commonwealth inland water regulations, but allow only catch-and-release fishing for all other species within Sheppard-Meyers Reservoir.
- PDF of Proposed Rulemaking published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD: December 3 - January 3, 2023
- Commissioners approved this Proposed Rulemaking on January 23, 2023. It will go into effect upon publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin.
- PDF of Final Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
FISHING - Final Rulemaking - Propagation and Introduction of Fish into Commonwealth Waters
48A-325
This rulemaking updates the Commission's regulations pertaining to the introduction and transportation of fish into waters of the Commonwealth and creates new regulatory requirements for fish health certification and watercraft inspections. All changes are outlined in the final rulemaking.
- PDF of Proposed Rulemaking published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- PFBC Fish Health Protocol
- COMMENT ON THIS PROPOSED RULEMAKING.
- PDF of Final Rulemaking published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
FISHING - Final Rulemaking - Atlantic Striped Bass Fishing
48A-339
This rulemaking updates the Commission's regulations pertaining to Atlantic striped bass fishing in the Delaware River, West Branch Delaware River and River Estuary.
- PDF of Proposed Rulemaking published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD: September 3 - October 2, 2022
- Commissioners approved this Proposed Rulemaking on October 24, 2022. It will go into effect on January 1, 2023.
- PDF of Final Rulemaking published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
BOATING - Final Rulemaking - Treasure Lake, Clearfield County
48A-337
This rulemaking updates the Commission's regulations pertaining to the maximum boat length on Treasure Lake, located in Clearfield County.
- PDF of Proposed Rulemaking published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- PUBIC COMMENT PERIOD: September 3 - October 2, 2022
- Commissioners approved this Proposed Rulemaking on October 24, 2022. It will go into effect on January 1, 2023.
- PDF of Final Rulemaking published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
BOATING - Final Rulemaking - Allowable Electric Motor Speeds & Horsepower Restrictions
48A-336
This rulemaking updates the Commission's regulations pertaining to allowable electric motor speeds and to clarify horsepower restrictions. The amendments to Chapter 107 will limit the speed electric motors can be operated and will clarify that horsepower restrictions apply to internal combustion motors only.
- PDF of Proposed Rulemaking published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD: September 3 - October 2, 2022
- Commissioners approved this Proposed Rulemaking on October 24, 2022. It will go into effect on January 1, 2023.
- PDF of Final Notice published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
FISHING - Final Rulemaking - Boat Title, License, and Permit Fees
48A-335
This rulemaking updates the Commission's regulations pertaining to the fees of boat titles, licenses, and permits. A public hearing was held on Monday, July 25, 2022 at 6 PM.
- PDF of Proposed Rulemaking published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD: July 16 - August 15, 2022
- Commissioners approved this Proposed Rulemaking on August 18, 2022. It will go into effect upon publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin.
- PDF of Final Rulemaking published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
FISHING - Final Rulemaking - Fishing License, Permit, and Boat Registration Fees
48A-334
This rulemaking updates the Commission's regulations pertaining to the fees of fishing licenses, permits and boat registrations as outlined in the rulemaking. A public hearing was held on Monday, July 25, 2022 at 6 PM.
- PDF of Proposed Rulemaking published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD: July 16 - August 15, 2022
- Commissioners approved this Proposed Rulemaking on August 18, 2022. It will go into effect upon publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin.
- PDF of Final Rulemaking published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
BOATING - Operator Provided Equipment - Fire Extinguishers
48A-327
In October 2021, the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) published a final rulemaking amending the fire extinguishing equipment regulations for recreational vessels propelled or controlled by propulsion machinery. This proposed rulemaking updates the Commission's regulations pertaining to fire extinguishers to ensure uniformity with the USCG's regulations.
- PDF of Proposed Rulemaking published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD: June 11 - July 11, 2022
- Commissioners approved this Proposed Rulemaking on July 26, 2022. It will go into effect on January 1, 2023.
- PDF of Final Rulemaking published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
FISHING - Seasons, Sizes and Creel Limits - American Shad
48A-326
Multiple state, federal, and tribal jurisdictions jointly manage American Shad fisheries along the Atlantic Coast, including the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) and the Delaware River Basin Fish and Wildlife Management Cooperative (Co-Op). The Commission is a member of both entities. Due to recent assessments the groups have identified unsustainable mortality within the Delaware River basin for the American Shad population. The Commission is proposing to amend the daily creel limit for American Shad as outlined in this notice of proposed rulemaking.
- PDF of Proposed Rulemaking published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD: June 11 - July 11, 2022
- Commissioners approved this Proposed Rulemaking on July 26, 2022. It will go into effect on January 1, 2023.
- PDF of Final Rulemaking published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
SPECIAL FISHING REGULATIONS - Little Chartiers Creek
48A-323
Little Chartiers Creek has been managed under miscellaneous special regulations since the early 1980s to prohibit angling from the end of the extended season for trout through 8 AM on the opening day of the regular season for trout. Historically, this was done to manage unwanted angling that occurred due to stocked trout escaping from Canonsburg Lake and traveling downstream. The Commission is proposing it be removed from the miscellaneous special regulations as outlined in the published Proposed Rulemaking.
- PDF of Proposed Rulemaking published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD: March 12 - April 11, 2022
- Commissioners approved this Proposed Rulemaking on July 26, 2022. It will go into effect January 1, 2023.
- PDF of Final Rulemaking published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
SPECIAL FISHING REGULATIONS - Penns Creek
48A-324
In 2021, the Commission established a new special regulation program known as the trout slot limit. Under this trout slot limit program, there are two subprograms: all-tackle trout slot limit and artificial lures only trout slot limit. Given the success Penns Creek has had under the experimental slot limit regulation, the Commission is proposing it be removed from miscellaneous special regulations in favor of management under the newly established trout slot limit program, as outlined in the published Proposed Rulemaking.
- PDF of Proposed Rulemaking published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
- PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD: March 12 - April 11, 2022
- Commissioners approved this Proposed Rulemaking on July 26, 2022. It will go into effect January 1, 2023.
- PDF of Final Rulemaking published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
Regulations
Related
- Pennsylvania Code - Official text of regulations (choose Title 58, Part II, for Commission regulations)
- Pennsylvania Bulletin - Official text of notices and orders
- Pennsylvania's Unified Judicial System - Court decisions
- PFBC Meetings