Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission
The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission is the state agency responsible for the regulation of all fishing and boating in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Unlike many states, Pennsylvania separates their game commission from the agency which regulates fishing.
Created in 1866 to restore runs of American shad, it today manages boat launches, waterways and other properties used for recreational fishing and boating. It also regulates the accessibility through dams on major waterways via fish ladders.
The PF&BC issues fishing licenses, which were converted to the Point of Sale computerized system in 2007. These licenses are valid on December 1 of the preceding year until December 31 of the license year. They also issue boat registrations, which are for a two-year period, expiring on March 31 of the year of expiration.