How To Get A Fishing License At Walmart

Fishing is a wonderful way to relax and to enjoy the great outdoors. Before you drop a line in the water, however, it’s a good idea to make sure you have everything you need. This includes your favorite rod and reel, and the right kind of bait. You should also make sure you have a valid fishing license.

Though some people might view a fishing license as a nuisance, they have a purpose that benefits all of us.

Money collected from the fees help pay for the management and protection of marine resources and education programs. They even maintain things like boat launches and fishing piers.

Regulations vary from state to state, but fishing licenses are typically good for a year. For those who fish only on occasion, there are short-term licenses available, too.

So how do you go about getting a fishing license? It might be easier than you think.

Where to Buy a Fishing License Near Me

In many areas, you can purchase a fishing license at a local tackle shop or at the same government office where you get your driver’s license or car tag renewed.

But there’s another option that a lot of folks don’t know about. And that’s the same place where you get many of your household staples. Yep, you can easily obtain a fishing license from a Walmart store, as long as it’s one that has a Sports & Outdoors section.

A Walmart fishing license is the same kind that’s issued by the state. It affords you the same rights and privileges on public waters.

5 Places to Buy a Fishing License

1. State Fish and Wildlife Agency: In most states, you can purchase a fishing license through the state fish and wildlife agency. You can visit their website to purchase a license online, or you can visit their office in person.
2. Sporting Goods Stores: Many sporting goods stores, such as Bass Pro Shops, Cabela’s, and Walmart, sell fishing licenses. You can visit their store or website to purchase a license.
3. Outdoor Retailers: Stores like REI and Dick’s Sporting Goods also sell fishing licenses. You can check their website or visit their store to purchase a license.
4. Bait and Tackle Shops: Local bait and tackle shops are another great option for purchasing a fishing license. They often sell licenses, as well as fishing gear and equipment.
5. Convenience Stores: Some convenience stores, such as 7-Eleven and gas stations, may also sell fishing licenses. You can check with your local store to see if they offer this service.

How Much is a Fishing License at Walmart? 

Prices vary from state to state, and there are other factors, too, such as a person’s age, whether he or she is a resident or non-resident of the state, the duration of the license and whether it’s for freshwater or saltwater fishing.

Also, Walmart does charge a small processing fee.

In several states, senior citizens, people with disabilities, veterans, active military personnel and kids under the age of 16 (or in some places, age 14) get discounts or do not require a license.

Here is some general pricing information for a Walmart fishing license:

• For a resident of the state between the ages of 16 and 65 – $19
• For a resident of the state who is 66 or older – $10
• A single-day license for a resident or non-resident – $11
• Yearly fishing license for a non-resident – $40
• Three-day fishing license for a tourist – $19
• Duplicate license to replace one that’s been lost or stolen – $4

How to Get A Walmart Fishing License 

Getting a Walmart fishing license is as easy as stepping up to the counter in the department that sells fishing and hunting supplies and showing a photo ID, but there are other ways to get one from Walmart, too:

Online: Go to walmart.com and submit your application, and use a debit card or credit card to pay for it. Once it’s approved, just print it out. (This isn’t an option in all states)

Phone: In some states, Walmart allows you to apply by phone by providing the necessary information and payment method. Once it’s approved you can print it at home or pick it up from the store.

Mail: This method takes some time, but it’s another option if your fishing trip is not right away.

What Hours Can I Get A Walmart Fishing License? 

You can get a Walmart fishing license in person any time that the store is open, and the same is true over the phone. Just check your local listings for the store’s regular business hours, and apply for your license during those times.

Be sure you have a photo ID on hand (most people simply use their driver’s license) as well as something that shows where you live. A driver’s license does this, but so does a utility bill.

Shelling out a few dollars for a fishing license is a small price to pay for something that has such big rewards. And it sure beats having to show up in court and pay a fine. Now that you know about a Walmart fishing license, you have one less excuse for not being properly licensed to legally indulge in one of our favorite pastimes.

After all, it’s literally as easy as picking up a few groceries, shopping for a new smart TV, or getting a prescription filled.

Do I Need a Different Fishing License for Every State?

As an outdoor journalist, anglers ask me if they need a different fishing license for every state. The answer, unfortunately, is not a simple yes or no.

While some states have reciprocal agreements that allow you to use your home state license to fish in another state, others require you to purchase a separate license. It’s essential to check the regulations of the state you plan to fish in before casting your line.

To make things more complicated, some states offer different types of licenses for different bodies of water, fish species, or even for different age groups. It’s essential to carefully read the regulations and requirements of each state to ensure you have the correct license for the type of fishing you plan to do.

In short, the rules and regulations for fishing licenses vary from state to state. It’s important to research and ensure you have the proper permit before heading out on your fishing adventure.

Failing to have the correct license can result in fines, penalties, and even the loss of fishing privileges. So, take the time to research and purchase the correct license, and you’ll be able to enjoy your fishing trip to the fullest.

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