How to Buy a Fishing License at Walmart (2026) — Process, Cost & All Retailers

Wondering where to buy a fishing license near you? Walmart sells fishing licenses in all 50 US states at the sporting goods counter — and it’s one of the most convenient options available. This guide covers the complete process of buying a fishing license at Walmart, what it costs, what other retailers carry them, and tips to make your purchase quick and easy.

Buying a Fishing License at Walmart — Step by Step

Can you get a fishing license at Walmart? Absolutely. Here’s exactly what to do:

1. Go to the sporting goods counter — Not the main checkout. Head to the back of the store where hunting and fishing gear is displayed.
2. Tell the associate you need a fishing license — They’ll pull up your state’s licensing system on their register.
3. Provide your ID — A valid government-issued photo ID (driver’s license or passport) is required.
4. Choose your license type — Annual, daily, combination, or whatever your state offers.
5. Pay and receive your license — Cash, credit, or debit accepted. You’ll get a printed receipt that serves as your license.

Pro tip: Some Walmart locations have self-service kiosks near sporting goods that let you purchase without waiting for an associate.

How Much Is a Fishing License at Walmart?

Walmart charges the exact same price as your state’s official fee. There is no markup, no convenience fee, and no processing charge. The price you pay at Walmart is identical to what you’d pay online at your state’s fish and wildlife website.

For exact prices by state, see our Fishing License Cost Guide.

What You Need to Buy a Fishing License at Walmart

Have these ready before you go:

• Government-issued photo ID — Driver’s license, state ID, or passport
• Social Security Number — Required in most states for first-time buyers
• Cash or card — Both accepted at all Walmart sporting goods counters
• Your state residency status — Know whether you qualify for resident or non-resident rates

Can You Buy a Fishing License at Walmart Online?

No. Walmart does not sell fishing licenses through walmart.com. You must purchase in-store at the sporting goods counter. If you want to buy your license online, visit your state’s official fish and wildlife website — see our How to Get a Fishing License guide for links to all 50 state portals.

Other Retailers That Sell Fishing Licenses

Walmart isn’t the only option. Here’s a complete comparison of where to buy a fishing license at retail stores:

Does Academy Sell Fishing Licenses?

Yes. Academy Sports + Outdoors sells fishing licenses at their customer service counter in all 18 states where they operate. Popular with Texas anglers — the Texas fishing license at Academy costs the same as buying directly from TPWD.

Does Ace Hardware Sell Fishing Licenses?

It depends on the location. Ace Hardware is a franchise, so individual store owners decide whether to offer fishing license sales. Call your local Ace Hardware first before making the trip. The stores that do sell them charge the standard state price.

Does Big 5 Sell Fishing Licenses?

Yes — Big 5 Sporting Goods sells fishing licenses at most locations across their 11-state footprint in the western US. Buy at the main checkout counter.

Does Cabela’s Sell Fishing Licenses?

Yes. Cabela’s (now part of Bass Pro Shops) sells fishing licenses at all locations. Head to the hunting/fishing counter for purchase.

Walmart Fishing License — Tips & Tricks

Best Times to Buy

• Weekday mornings (Tue–Thu, 8–10 AM) — Shortest wait times at sporting goods
• Avoid Saturday mornings and holiday weekends — peak hunting/fishing season rushes
• Avoid the first day of fishing season — everyone else has the same idea

What Walmart’s Sporting Goods Counter Hours Are

Most Walmart sporting goods counters operate during regular store hours (typically 6 AM – 11 PM), but the associate staffing varies. If no one is at the counter, use the call button or ask any associate to page someone.

Digital vs. Physical License

At Walmart, you’ll receive a printed paper license. Many states also offer digital licenses through official apps — check if your state has one:

• Texas: My Texas Hunt Harvest app
• Florida: Fish|Hunt FL app
• California: CA Outdoors app

Fishing License Near Me

Looking for the closest place to buy? Besides Walmart, check our state-specific where to buy guides for authorized retailers in your area.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is a fishing license at Walmart? The same price as your state’s official rate. Walmart does not add any fees or markup. Check our cost guide for your state’s price.

Can you buy someone else a fishing license at Walmart? In most states, yes — but the person receiving the license must be present with their ID. Some states allow gift purchases; check your state’s rules.

Does Walmart sell fishing licenses year-round? Yes. Walmart sells fishing licenses every day the store is open, all year long. Peak demand is typically March through June.

Can I renew my fishing license at Walmart? Yes. The process is identical to buying a new license — just visit the sporting goods counter with your ID.

Does Home Depot sell fishing licenses? No. Home Depot does not sell fishing licenses at any location.

Does Tractor Supply sell fishing licenses? Select Tractor Supply locations in some states do sell fishing licenses. Call your local store to confirm.

What if the Walmart sporting goods counter is closed? If no associate is available, try the self-service kiosk if your location has one. Otherwise, purchase online through your state’s fish and wildlife website — it’s instant and available 24/7. See our how to get a license guide.

Ready to fish? Find your state’s exact requirements and prices on our state pages, or learn about free fishing days when no license is needed.