Fishing Bait at Walmart: A Comprehensive Guide for 2025

Walmart has become a go-to destination for anglers looking to stock up on fishing bait and gear. This guide explores the wide selection of fishing bait available at Walmart, from live options to artificial lures, and provides insights on making the best choices for your next fishing trip. We’ll also cover important regulations and considerations for using bait responsibly.

Live Bait Options at Walmart

Nightcrawlers and Redworms

Walmart’s convenient live bait delivery service for nightcrawlers and redworms has expanded significantly since its introduction. As of 2025, this on-demand early morning delivery allows fishermen to order live bait as soon as 15 minutes before their fishing trip in many locations.

Key details:

• Nightcrawlers cost about $5.50 for 18 worms
• Redworms cost about $4.75 for 30 worms
• Expedited delivery (15 minutes to 1 hour) costs an extra $3-$8 depending on location

This service is now available for both pickup and delivery at over 4,000 Walmart stores across the United States. It’s designed to make fishing expeditions more convenient and hassle-free, especially for those last-minute trips.

Other Live Bait

While the delivery service primarily focuses on nightcrawlers and redworms, many Walmart stores have expanded their in-store live bait offerings. Common options include:

• Minnows
• Shiners
• Crickets
• Wax worms
• Meal worms

Availability may vary by location and season, so it’s best to check with your local Walmart for their specific live bait offerings. Some stores have even introduced small bait vending machines for 24/7 access to popular live bait options.

Artificial Lures and Baits

Walmart offers an extensive selection of artificial lures and baits, catering to various fishing styles and target species. Here are some popular options:

Soft Plastics

Soft plastic baits remain a versatile and effective choice for many types of fishing, especially bass fishing. Top choices available at Walmart include:

• Yum Dingers
• Strike King worms
• Yamamoto Senkos
• Zoom Flukes
• Berkley Powerbait

These soft plastics are often highlighted in fishing forums as go-to choices for bass fishing, with many priced under $5 for a pack.

Crankbaits

Crankbaits are excellent for covering water and triggering strikes from predatory fish. Walmart’s selection has grown to include:

• Ozark Trail Lipless Crankbaits
• Strike King 1.5 Square Bill
• Rapala DT Series
• Berkley Frittside
• H2O Express branded crankbaits

Strike King and Rapala crankbaits are particularly noted for their quality and affordability, often priced between $5-$10.

Spinners and Spoons

These classic lures remain effective for multiple species and are a staple in many tackle boxes. Walmart offers:

• Mepps spinners
• Blue Fox spinners
• Walmart brand spinners (often priced at $1-$2)
• Various spoon lures from brands like Acme and Johnson

The budget-friendly spinners and buzzbaits from Walmart continue to be praised by cost-conscious anglers for their effectiveness.

Topwater Lures

For exciting surface action, Walmart stocks an expanded selection of topwater options:

• Whopper Plopper style lures (both Walmart’s Ozark Trail brand and other brands)
• Poppers in various colors and sizes
• Walking baits like the Zara Spook
• Buzzbaits from multiple manufacturers

Walmart Exclusive Brands

Walmart has continued to develop its in-house fishing brands, providing quality at competitive prices:

1. Ozark Trail: Known for a wide range of fishing gear, including lures, rods, reels, and tackle boxes
2. H2O Express: Offers various fishing lures and equipment, with a focus on saltwater options
3. Mainstays Outdoors: A newer brand focusing on budget-friendly basics for casual anglers

These brands often provide good value for money and are frequently compared favorably to more expensive name-brand alternatives in angler reviews and forums.

Budget-Friendly Options

Walmart maintains its reputation for affordable fishing gear. Here are some budget-friendly options popular among anglers in 2025:

• $7-$15 lure kits: Often include a variety of lures suitable for beginners or as backup options
• Bulk soft plastics: Many anglers stock up on these inexpensive, effective baits
• $1-$2 spinner baits: Located in large boxes on lower shelves, these remain a favorite among budget-conscious fishermen
• Clearance sections: Many stores now have dedicated clearance areas for fishing gear, offering significant discounts on last season’s stock

Choosing the Right Bait at Walmart

When selecting fishing bait at Walmart, consider the following factors:

1. Target species: Different fish prefer different baits. Research what works best for your target fish.
2. Fishing location: Consider whether you’re fishing in freshwater or saltwater, and the specific characteristics of your fishing spot.
3. Season and conditions: Some baits work better in certain seasons or weather conditions.
4. Personal experience: As you gain experience, you’ll develop preferences for certain types of bait.
5. Local regulations: Always check your local fishing regulations, as some areas may have restrictions on certain types of bait.

Bait Regulations and Responsible Use

It’s crucial to be aware of and follow bait regulations in your area. While specific rules vary by state, here are some general guidelines based on common regulations:

• Live bait transport: Many states prohibit transporting live fish between water bodies to prevent the spread of invasive species and diseases.
• Game fish as bait: It’s often illegal to use game fish or parts of game fish as bait.
• Bait collection: There may be limits on how much bait you can collect and what methods you can use.

Always check with your state’s fish and wildlife agency for specific regulations. Here are links to some state agency websites:

• Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
• Missouri Department of Conservation

Tips for Shopping for Fishing Bait at Walmart

1. Check the fishing section regularly: Walmart often rotates stock and may have seasonal specials.
2. Look for clearance deals: End-of-season sales can be a great time to stock up on lures and baits.
3. Read online reviews: Many anglers share their experiences with Walmart fishing gear on forums and social media.
4. Compare with name brands: Often, Walmart’s house brands offer similar quality at a lower price point.
5. Consider bulk purchases: For frequently used items like soft plastics, buying in bulk can save money in the long run.
6. Use the Walmart app: The app often has exclusive deals and can help you locate items in the store.
7. Check for price matching: Walmart’s price matching policy can help you get the best deal if you find a lower price elsewhere.

Conclusion

Walmart continues to be a one-stop shop for many fishing enthusiasts, offering a wide range of fishing bait options to suit various angling needs and budgets. From convenient live bait delivery to an extensive selection of artificial lures, Walmart provides ample opportunities for anglers to stock their tackle boxes effectively.

By understanding the available options, considering factors like target species and fishing conditions, and staying informed about local regulations, anglers can make informed choices and enhance their fishing experiences. Remember to always fish responsibly and in compliance with local laws to help preserve our aquatic ecosystems for future generations.

Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, Walmart’s fishing bait selection provides the tools you need for your next fishing adventure. Take advantage of Walmart’s competitive pricing and diverse offerings to get the most value for your fishing dollar.