Paddlesports

Pennsylvania’s countless miles of rivers and streams and thousands of lakes, reservoirs and ponds provide seemingly endless opportunities for paddlers to explore. Take family and friends on a kayaking, canoeing or stand-up paddleboarding adventure and grab the rod and tackle box to turn it into a fishing expedition. The opportunities await.

Three friends wearing life jackets are laughing and having fun while kayaking along a stream in Central Pennsylvania.
Close-up of a 2025 unpowered boat registration sticker

Apply for New Unpowered Boat Registration

Unpowered boat registration is required for boats without motors that do not have a launch permit.

Apply for New Unpowered Boat Registration
Close-up of a Launch Permit sticker with expiration of December 31

Buy a Launch Permit

PFBC Launch Permits are required for unpowered boats that are not registered and plan to launch at a PFBC or State Park/Forest boating access.

Buy a Launch Permit
One woman wearing a life jacket paddling in a registered kayak and another woman wearing a life jacket paddling a paddleboard with a launch permit.

Launch Permit vs. Unpowered Boat Registration

Learn about the benefits of registering your unpowered boat vs. purchasing a launch permit.

Launch Permit vs. Unpowered Boat Registration
Two women wearing life jackets while carrying a kayak to the edge of a lake to prepare to launch.

Paddlesports Basics

Learn basic tips for a safe and fun paddling adventure

Paddlesports Basics
Man wearing a life jacket and cold weather gear uses his paddle to turn his kayak in the water

Paddlesports Safety

Learn safe practices for paddling before you head out on the water.

Paddlesports Safety
Close-up of the front of a kayak with a life jacket and a cell phone in a dry bag about to launch into a stream.

Paddlesports Equipment

Learn about the safety equipment needed for paddling.

Paddlesports Equipment