No, fishing licenses are not free at Walmart. Walmart is an authorized licensing agent for fishing licenses in all states, offering the same licenses as state agencies, but the licenses must be purchased.
What is the Cost of Fishing Licenses at Walmart?

The cost of a fishing license at Walmart varies by state and type of license. Here are some general prices:
License Type | Cost |
---|---|
Resident (ages 16-65) | $19 |
Resident (66 and older) | $10 |
Single-day (resident or non-resident) | $11 |
Yearly (non-resident) | $40 |
Three-day (tourist) | $19 |
Duplicate (lost or stolen) | $4 |
What Types of Fishing Licenses Does Walmart Offer?
Walmart offers various types of fishing licenses, including:
- Recreational and commercial licenses
- Resident and non-resident licenses
- Youth and senior licenses
- Freshwater, saltwater, and other types of licenses
How Can I Purchase a Fishing License at Walmart?
To purchase a fishing license at Walmart, you can follow these steps:
- Locate the Sports & Outdoor department at your local Walmart store. Not all Walmart locations offer fishing licenses, so you’ll need to check if your store has this service.
- Bring a valid state ID and proof of residency (if applicable) to the Sports & Outdoor department.
- Inform the associate that you would like to purchase a fishing license.
- The associate will guide you through the process of selecting the appropriate license type and completing the transaction.
- Some states may offer discounted licenses for seniors or military personnel, so be sure to inform the associate if you qualify for any discounts.
What are the Hours for Purchasing Fishing Licenses at Walmart?
You can purchase fishing licenses at Walmart during regular store hours. The availability and hours may vary by location, so it’s best to check with your local Walmart store for their specific hours of operation for the Sports & Outdoor department.
Are There Any Discounts or Promotions for Fishing Licenses at Walmart?
Walmart does not typically offer any discounts or promotions on fishing licenses. The prices are set by the state agencies, and Walmart simply acts as an authorized licensing agent, selling the licenses at the same cost as the state.
However, some states may offer discounted licenses for certain groups, such as seniors or military personnel. If you qualify for any discounts, be sure to inform the Walmart associate when purchasing your license.
Conclusion
In summary, while Walmart is a convenient location to purchase fishing licenses, they are not free. The cost of the licenses varies by state and license type, but Walmart does not offer any additional discounts or promotions beyond what the state agencies provide. To get a fishing license at Walmart, simply visit the Sports & Outdoor department, bring your valid ID, and the associate will guide you through the process.
Reference:
- https://tinyhousedesign.com/walmart-fishing-license-guide/
- https://tacklevillage.com/how-to-get-a-fishing-license-at-walmart/
- https://drivinvibin.com/2023/04/26/fishing-license-at-walmart/