Pennsylvania Bag Limits
Complete daily limits, possession limits, and season limits for hunting and fishing in Pennsylvania.
Pennsylvania Bag Limits
Complete guide to daily limits, possession limits, season limits, and size restrictions for hunting and fishing in Pennsylvania. Updated for the current season.
Big Game
3 species
Game Birds
7 species
Fish Species
4 species
Total Species
16
Big Game
3 species in Pennsylvania
| Species | Daily | Possession | Season | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| White-tailed Deer | 1 | - | Per license held | Antlerless permits by WMU lottery |
| Black Bear | 1 | - | 1 per year | Large population; multiple seasons |
| Elk | 1 | - | 1 per lifetime | North-central PA; limited draw |
Upland Birds
4 species in Pennsylvania
| Species | Daily | Possession | Season | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wild Turkey | 1 | - | 2 per year | Spring bearded; fall either sex |
| Pheasant | 2 | 4 | - | Stocked on state game lands |
| Grouse | 2 | 4 | - | Challenging; declining populations |
| Dove | 15 | 45 | - | - |
Fish
4 species in Pennsylvania
| Species | Daily | Possession | Season | Size Limit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Largemouth Bass | 6 | - | - | 12" minimum | - |
| Smallmouth Bass | 6 | - | - | 15" minimum | - |
| Trout | 5 | - | - | 7" minimum | Stocked and wild trout waters |
| Walleye | 6 | - | - | 15" minimum | - |
Pennsylvania Special Notes
Pennsylvania antlerless permits use DMAP application. Apply early for preferred WMUs.
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Pennsylvania Regulations Overview
State wildlife agency and regulations information
- Species Covered
- 16 species with regulations
- Big Game Species
-
- White-tailed Deer
- Black Bear
- Elk
- Wildlife Agency
- Pennsylvania Game Commission / Fish and Boat Commission
This information is for reference only. Always verify regulations with your state wildlife agency before hunting or fishing.
Last verified: January 2026
Pennsylvania Bag Limits FAQ
Common questions about harvest limits in Pennsylvania
What is the deer bag limit in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, the daily deer limit is 1 with a season limit of Per license held. Antlerless permits by WMU lottery
What is the difference between daily and possession limits?
Daily limit is the maximum you can harvest in one day. Possession limit is the maximum you can have at any time, typically 2-3 times the daily limit. In Pennsylvania, possession limits help ensure hunters don't stockpile beyond reasonable personal use.
What big game can I hunt in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania offers hunting for: White-tailed Deer, Black Bear, Elk. Each species has specific limits and regulations - always verify current rules before hunting.
What are the fishing limits in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania fishing limits include: Largemouth Bass: 6/day (12" minimum); Smallmouth Bass: 6/day (15" minimum); Trout: 5/day (7" minimum); Walleye: 6/day (15" minimum). Water-specific regulations may override general limits.
Where can I find official Pennsylvania bag limits?
For official and current bag limits, check your Pennsylvania wildlife agency website. Regulations can change annually, and specific areas may have different rules. Always carry current regulations while hunting.
Are there special regulations I should know about in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania antlerless permits use DMAP application. Apply early for preferred WMUs.
Other States
View bag limits for more states
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