If pfctl -V shows a newer version than the kernel expects, the config syntax may have changed.
This is the most effective fix. Rebooting ensures the system loads the latest kernel that matches the updated pfctl program. pf configuration incompatible with pf program version
If you are seeing this on a system that was recently updated (or is in the middle of one), ensure all updates are either fully applied or cleared. Clear Staged Updates (macOS/OCLP) : Use tools like the PurgePendingUpdate tool or manually remove files in If pfctl -V shows a newer version than
kldload pf