Notice of Stocking (NOS) Regulations

Name: eRegulations
Price range: $

Ensuring the health and wellbeing of Pennsylvania’s waters and aquatic life is paramount to the mission of the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, and we must be proactive in responding to the increasing challenges brought on by Aquatic Invasive Species.

Any person or group engaged in stocking fish into Commonwealth waters is required to notify the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) by way of NOS. This includes streams and ponds located on private properties.

NOS Submission

A NOS is required for each waterbody. Multiple stocking events (per waterbody) may be submitted on a single NOS form.

The NOS form submission is free and easy and helps the PFBC track the number, species and location of fish being introduced into the waters of the Commonwealth.

The information will assist the PFBC in assessing and quantifying fishing opportunities created outside of the PFBC as well as monitor threats to the Commonwealth’s aquatic resources.

For a NOS: Visit the HuntFish PA website

For More Information: For more information, see the Fish and Boat Commission's Notice of Stocking page.

A NOS is NOT Needed For:

Fish baited on a hook for fishing
Stocking an ornamental pond constructed with a closed system of water circulation with no risk of contacting the Commonwealth’s surface waters
Stocking allowed by a Triploid Grass Carp Permit
Stocking waters contained within a property or premise of a propagation facility licensed under the Pennsylvania Aquaculture Development Law (3 Pa.C.S. §§ 4201-4223)

If you don’t submit a NOS, a Waterways Conservation Officer may provide education of the requirement, request you submit a NOS to comply with the regulation, issue a warning or issue a $150.00 citation.

Reminder:

A VHSv certification is required for stocking in the Great Lakes Watershed of Erie, Crawford and Potter counties.
Gill Lice certification is required for any PFBC Special Activities Permit that consists of stocking Brook Trout or Rainbow Trout. The certification is only needed when a stocking occurs.