HARRISBURG (KYW Newsradio) -- Looking for ways to slow the spread of COVID-19, the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission has come up with some changes to make it easier to get a fishing license.
The commission has just opened sales of its 2021 licenses and is now offering a digital option to get one.
“You can use your phone,” explained Timothy Schaeffer, Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission executive director. “Go online. Purchase it, and then just keep proof of that purchase on your phone rather than having to display it, say, get a plastic holder and have it on your hat.
“We actually eliminated the display requirement. So, that used to be one of the impediments to allowing people to do it online. But the fact that we legally no longer require you to display your fishing license, it’s easier than ever.”
He said people can still go to retail outlets if they want to buy a paper fishing license now and they can still display it on a fishing vest or hat. But that’s no longer required, Schaeffer said. They can simply carry the licenses with them.
Schaeffer said this is actually a good time to get it before the spring opening of trout season. And, the purchase comes with a bonus:
“So if you buy your license now, it’s not just an annual license, it’s actually a 13-month license,” he said. “I guess you could call it a baker’s dozen.”
Schaeffer said the commission also has 3-, 5- and 10-year fishing license options available.