HOW OPENING DAYS ARE DETERMINED

View the Pennsylvania Fishing Summary of Regulations & Laws for dates of the current year seasons, most are listed within the Commonwealth Inland Waters section.

Trout and Salmon – Regular Season

From 8 a.m. on the first Saturday in April, to midnight, Labor Day.

[ Trout Season Overview ]

Trout and Salmon – Extended Season

All stocked trout waters, streams plus lakes and ponds:  From January 1 to 
February 19; and from 12:01 a.m. the day after Labor Day to December 31.

[ Trout Season Overview ]

Muskellunge, Pike, Pickerel

Open year-round.

[ Musky Info, Pike Info, Pickerel Info ]

Walleye, Sauger

From January 1 to March 14; and from 12:01 a.m. of the first Saturday in May to December 31.

[ Walleye Info ]

Bass – Largemouth, Smallmouth, Spotted

Open year round.

NO HARVEST:  12:01 a.m. the second Saturday in April to 12:01 a.m. the second Saturday in June.

During the no harvest season, anglers must immediately return any bass to the water and are prohibited from casting into spawning beds.

[ Bass Info ]

Fish-for-Free Days

These days are set by the Commission's Executive Director. The PA Fish and Boat Code allows for a maximum of 2 free days each year.

[ Fish-for-Free Days Info ]

Mentored Youth Fishing Days

Mentored Youth Day is the Saturday before Regular Season Opening Day.

[ Mentored Youth Program Info ]