Benefits · Supportive Services
How to apply for Pennsylvania Disabled Veteran Fishing License (Free or Reduced Fee)
Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC)
Who it's for
Pennsylvania resident veterans with a service-connected disability can fish for little or nothing. Veterans rated 60% to 99% disabled by the VA pay a reduced fee (currently $2.97) for a resident fishing license. Veterans certified 100% disabled — or with the loss of one or more limbs, the loss of use of one or more limbs, or total blindness — receive the license free, along with a free Combination Trout/Lake Erie Permit. The disability does not need to be combat-related; it only needs to be service-connected and certified by the VA. Apply first through a county treasurer, the Fish and Boat Commission's Harrisburg office, or one of its six regional offices.
The reduced fee applies at a VA rating of 60% to 99% — a veteran rated exactly 60% qualifies even though this checker groups ratings in ranges, so a rating in the 50-60% range is worth confirming with the county treasurer. The free license (with a free Combination Trout/Lake Erie Permit) requires 100% VA certification, or the loss or loss of use of one or more limbs, or total blindness, regardless of percentage. The first application goes through a county treasurer or a Fish and Boat Commission office.
What you'll need
- Written VA certification of the qualifying service-connected disability
- Proof of Pennsylvania residency (driver's license preferred)
Where to apply
Apply online: official application
Renewals
annual license
Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.
Find my benefitsNot legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.