A Sign for A Fishing License in Front of A Walmart Store

How to Get a Fishing License at Walmart – A Step-by-Step Guide

by

Last summer, I got so excited about a fishing trip to Lake Fork, Texas, that I almost forgot something pretty important: my fishing license!

I’d been daydreaming about catching a big bass for weeks, picturing the peaceful water and the thrill of the tug on my line.

But as I packed my gear, it dawned on me—my old license had expired, and I wasn’t about to risk a fine or ruin my plans.

I needed one fast, and that’s when I thought of Walmart. I’d heard they sell licenses right in the store, and since it’s so close to home, I decided to give it a try.

Let me tell you, it was easier than I expected!

Step 1: Figuring Out I Needed a License—and Picking Walmart

I’ve fished before, but life got busy, and my old license slipped my mind.

In Texas, anyone over 16 needs one to fish in public waters, like lakes or rivers. I was after largemouth bass, so a freshwater license was what I wanted.

I could’ve driven to the Texas Parks and Wildlife office, but it’s almost an hour away, and they close at 5 PM—not great for my schedule.

I thought about buying it online, but there’s a $5 fee, and I’d have to wait for it to arrive in the mail.

Walmart, though? It’s just down the road, open late, and I could grab some fishing stuff while I was there. For about $30, I’d get my license and maybe a few extras—like bait or a snack for the boat.

Here’s a tip: Check your state’s rules first. Kids or older folks might not need a license, but at 32, I definitely did!

Step 2: Getting Ready Before I Headed Out

Not every Walmart sells fishing licenses—only the ones with a Sporting Goods area—so I called my local store to be sure.

“Yes, we have them!” the nice lady on the phone said. I asked what to bring, and she told me a photo ID, like my driver’s license, and maybe proof I live in Texas if my ID didn’t show it—like a bill with my address.

My license had my current address, so I was good with just that. I also peeked at the Texas Parks and Wildlife website to see the prices: $30 for a year-long freshwater license or $11 for one day.

I chose the yearly one since I’d fish more than once—it’s a better deal.

Tip: Call your store ahead of time to make sure they offer licenses and ask when it’s less busy. I went at 10 AM to avoid a crowd.

Step 3: Arriving at Walmart

A Walmart Store Entrance with Cars Parked in Front
Source: Youtube/Screenshot, I told an employee, “I need a fishing license,” and she smiled, saying, “I’ll help you with that!”

Walking in, I headed straight for the Sporting Goods section—past the groceries and TVs, right to the back where they keep the fishing gear and hunting stuff. It was calm, just one person looking at tackle boxes nearby.

I saw an employee tidying shelves and said, “Hi, I’m here to get a fishing license.” She smiled and replied, “Oh, sure, I’ll help you with that!”

Tip: Go to the Sporting Goods counter, not the main customer service desk—some stores have a special spot there for licenses.

Step 4: Doing the Paperwork

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by R A Z O (@razonyc)

She walked me over to a small machine on the counter—it looked a bit old-fashioned, but it’s the system they use for licenses.

She asked, “Are you a Texas resident?” I said yes and handed her my driver’s license.

She typed in my details—my name, address, and birthday—then asked, “Freshwater, saltwater, or both?” I told her, “Just freshwater,” already imagining those bass.

She clicked a few buttons, made sure I wanted the yearly one, and said, “That’s $30, and there’s no extra charge.”

I liked that—no hidden fees like online! She printed a paper for me to sign, checked my ID again, and we were almost done.

Tip: Decide what you need before you go—yearly or one-day, freshwater or a combo—so it’s quick. Bring cash or a card; they take either.

Step 5: Paying and Holding My License

A Person Holding Their Fishing License While Paying at The Self-Service Kiosk at Walmart
Source: Youtube/Screenshot, It took maybe 10 minutes in total

I paid with my debit card, and in just a moment, the machine printed my license—a tough little paper with my name, a license number, and an expiration date of March 31, 2026 (it lasts a full year from when you buy it in Texas).

She gave it to me along with a small booklet of fishing rules and said, “Keep this with you—the game wardens like to see it.” I slipped it into my wallet, feeling ready for the lake.

Tip: If they don’t hand you the rule booklet, ask for it—it tells you things like how big a fish has to be to keep. For bass in Texas, it’s 14 inches, and I wanted to follow that.

Step 6: Grabbing Extras and Heading to the Lake

@jasonborofka Lucky Cast #lakefork #texasbassfishing #bassfishing #foryoupage #topwater #swimbaits #fishingtips #dobynsrods #america #usa #epicfail ♬ original sound – Jason Borofka

Since I was already there, I picked up a pack of plastic worms for $3 and a bottle of water for $1—cheaper than a bait shop and super handy.

By 10:15 AM, I was back in my truck, license in hand, excited for Lake Fork.

It felt so simple—no waiting around, no stress, just done.

Tip: Make the most of Walmart’s fishing section—grab some gear or snacks while you’re at it, but stay focused so you don’t forget the license!

At $30 for a year, it’s worth it for how much I love fishing. I’ve gone back to Walmart to renew since then—it’s my favorite way now.

Tip: Keep your license safe—put it in a plastic sleeve or take a picture on your phone as a backup. Some places might accept a digital version, but Texas prefers the paper one.

The Best Part

Walmart made it quick, affordable, and painless, giving me more time to enjoy fishing instead of worrying.

Whether you’re after bass like me, catfish, or just some quiet time by the river, getting your license at Walmart is so simple.

Grab your ID, head to your nearby store, and you’ll be ready to fish in no time. Your next great catch is out there waiting!

Related Posts: