Pennsylvania state parks will allow families to fish in state waterways without a fishing license on July 4.
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Fish-for-Free-Day aims to promote the fun of fishing in Pennsylvania families. As of July 4, 2024, any resident or non-resident of Pennsylvania will be allowed to fish without a license in the state’s waterways, although all other fishing regulations will still apply.
Those without gear can visit the state’s Borrow a Rod & Reel Fishing Tackle Loaner Program to find a location where they can borrow rods, reels, and tackle boxes filled with hooks and other terminal tackle. To borrow equipment, guests must complete a form. Equipment loan is similar to a library transaction. At the end of the loan, the equipment must be returned to the site.
The program is a partnership between the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, the American Sportfishing Association, and various sponsors. It is designed to make it easy for anyone to have access to fishing gear.
Fishing equipment may also be loaned to groups conducting community fishing education programs.
Visit the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission’s tackle loaner webpage for more information on locations, hours of operation, and contact information.
