Next year’s fishing licenses already on sale

PENNSYLVANIA — The calendar may say otherwise, but for anglers the New Year is already here. Pennsylvania fishing licenses for 2007 have been on sale since December 1, and become valid at the time of purchase—no need to wait for January 1.

Licenses can be purchased from home at www.fishandboat.com and click on the yellow link marked “Get Your Fishing License.” The transaction can be completed online and printed out on a home printer. For those who need to pick up some new gear to go with their license, visit one of more than 1,300 fishing license issuing agents statewide. Issuing agents include bait and tackle shops and the sporting goods departments of many major department stores. Many county treasurers’ offices also carry fishing licenses. A complete list of issuing agents is posted on the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission site.

Issuing agents hand out a free “Summary of Pennsylvania Fishing Regulations and Laws” with each license purchased. This same information is available online. A few things to know up front: a valid Pennsylvania license is required for anglers 16 years of age and older. Additional permits may also be required, such as a trout/salmon stamp for those fishing for trout or a Lake Erie permit for anglers fishing in Lake Erie, Presque Isle Bay or their tributaries. A combination Lake Erie/Trout Stamp is also available at a discounted price as compared to purchasing the two permits separately.