Quick Answer

Yes, Cabela's does hire people with felony convictions on a case-by-case basis. As a premier outdoor retailer now owned by Bass Pro Shops, Cabela's evaluates each applicant individually rather than automatic rejection. With over 80 stores across the United States, Cabela's offers opportunities in retail sales, warehouse, customer service, and cashier positions starting at $12-16/hour. Your best chances are in warehouse, stocking, and non-firearms sales associate roles where outdoor knowledge and work ethic matter more than spotless backgrounds. Federal law prohibits convicted felons from working in firearms departments.

Last Verified: October 2025

Table of Contents

1. Quick Answer

2. About Cabela's

3. Does Cabela's Hire People with Felonies?

4. What Cabela's Looks For

5. Available Jobs at Cabela's

6. Background Check Process at Cabela's

7. Special Considerations for Firearms Restrictions

8. Application Tips for Cabela's

9. Frequently Asked Questions

10. Similar Felon-Friendly Outdoor Companies

11. Final Thoughts

About Cabela's

Cabela's is a leading outdoor retailer specializing in hunting, fishing, camping, and outdoor recreation gear. Since being acquired by Bass Pro Shops in 2017, Cabela's operates over 80 large-format retail stores across the United States and employs thousands of people. Cabela's stores are known for their massive size, wildlife displays, and comprehensive selection of outdoor equipment.

Cabela's stores need passionate outdoor enthusiasts who can help customers with gear selection, answer technical questions about hunting and fishing, and maintain large retail spaces. The outdoor retail industry faces constant demand for knowledgeable workers who understand and love outdoor activities.

For people with records, Cabela's matters because outdoor retailers value genuine passion for hunting, fishing, and camping. If you understand the outdoors and can help customers plan successful trips, you have real opportunities. The outdoor industry traditionally takes practical approaches to hiring based on knowledge and enthusiasm rather than corporate credentials.

Does Cabela's Hire People with Felonies?

Yes. Cabela's official policy is case-by-case evaluation.

Official Policy

Cabela's doesn't automatically reject applicants with criminal records. Each application gets individual review. Since the Bass Pro Shops acquisition, Cabela's follows similar hiring practices to its parent company, considering the type of offense, time since conviction, job requirements, and individual qualifications.

Real-World Practice

Warehouse workers, stock associates, and retail sales associates (in non-firearms departments) with felony records get hired regularly. Cabela's needs employees who can work physically demanding jobs, assist customers knowledgeably, and handle seasonal rushes around hunting seasons and holidays.

Positions involving firearms sales face federal restrictions—convicted felons cannot legally sell firearms or ammunition under federal law. However, Cabela's has numerous departments (fishing, camping, marine, footwear, clothing, home goods) that don't involve firearms at all.

What Affects Hiring Decisions

Time since conviction: 3+ years helps significantly. 5+ years is better for customer-facing positions and supervisory roles.

Type of offense: Violent felonies, especially involving weapons, create the most challenges due to firearms presence in stores. Theft can be problematic since you'll handle merchandise and cash. Drug offenses and other non-violent felonies are typically viewed more favorably.

Position applied for: Warehouse and stock positions have the highest acceptance rates. General retail sales (non-firearms departments) are accessible. Firearms department positions face federal legal restrictions that cannot be waived.

Outdoor knowledge: Strong hunting, fishing, or camping knowledge dramatically improves your chances. If you can knowledgeably discuss gear, techniques, and outdoor activities, stores are more willing to work with background issues.

Store needs: Locations experiencing staffing shortages or in competitive labor markets may be more flexible with hiring decisions.

What Cabela's Looks For

Cabela's wants employees who love the outdoors and can help customers. They value:

• Outdoor knowledge (hunting, fishing, camping experience)

• Passion for conservation and outdoor recreation

• Customer service skills

• Physical capability (stores are huge with heavy products)

• Willingness to work retail hours, weekends, and seasonal peaks

• Product knowledge and technical expertise

The company cares more about your ability to help a customer choose the right fishing reel or camping tent than your felony from years ago. If you can demonstrate outdoor expertise and enthusiasm, your hiring chances improve significantly.

Available Jobs at Cabela's

Cabela's offers several positions suitable for people with felony records. Here are the most common roles:

1. Retail Sales Associate (Non-Firearms Departments)

Pay: $12-15/hour

What you do: Assist customers in departments like fishing, camping, marine, clothing, footwear, or home goods. Answer product questions, demonstrate equipment, operate cash register, maintain department appearance.

Requirements: Outdoor knowledge helpful, customer service skills, ability to lift 50+ pounds

Why it works: Most common entry position. Outdoor enthusiasm valued over background. Multiple departments available that don't involve firearms.

2. Warehouse Associate / Stock Associate

Pay: $12-15/hour

What you do: Unload trucks, process shipments, stock shelves, organize warehouse, move inventory, assist with floor replenishment, maintain backroom organization.

Requirements: Physical capability, attention to detail, ability to operate pallet jacks/forklifts (training provided)

Why it works: Limited customer interaction. Physical work ethic matters most. Behind-the-scenes positions face less scrutiny.

3. Cashier / Front End Associate

Pay: $11-14/hour

What you do: Process customer purchases, handle returns, answer basic questions, maintain checkout area, promote Cabela's credit card and CLUB membership.

Requirements: Basic math skills, customer service, cash handling, friendly demeanor

Why it works: High turnover creates constant openings. Less specialized knowledge required than sales floor positions.

4. Fishing Department Associate

Pay: $13-16/hour

What you do: Assist customers with fishing equipment, explain rod and reel specifications, discuss tackle and lures, share fishing knowledge, maintain fishing department.

Requirements: Fishing knowledge and experience, customer service skills, passion for fishing

Why it works: Specialized department where knowledge creates value. Fishing expertise highly valued. Large department in most stores.

5. Camping & Outdoor Gear Associate

Pay: $12-15/hour

What you do: Help customers select camping equipment, explain product features, discuss outdoor recreation, maintain camping department.

Requirements: Camping and outdoor experience, product knowledge, customer service

Why it works: Technical knowledge valued. Customers appreciate genuine outdoor experience. No firearms involvement.

6. Cart Associate / Lot Attendant

Pay: $11-13/hour

What you do: Collect shopping carts, maintain parking lot appearance, assist customers loading large purchases (boats, kayaks, furniture), handle outdoor tasks.

Requirements: Physical capability, work outdoors in all weather, friendly demeanor, driver's license helpful

Why it works: Entry-level position with minimal requirements. Good way to get your foot in the door. Physical work focus.

7. Receiving Associate / Backroom

Pay: $13-16/hour

What you do: Process incoming shipments, verify merchandise, organize receiving area, prepare inventory for sales floor, operate forklifts, maintain warehouse.

Requirements: Physical capability, organization skills, forklift operation (training provided), early morning availability

Why it works: Behind-the-scenes warehouse environment. Clear responsibilities. Less public interaction.

Best entry point: Start as Warehouse Associate or Stock Associate, learn the products and store layout, build relationships with managers, demonstrate your outdoor knowledge in conversations, then transition to sales floor departments that match your outdoor interests.

Critical note about firearms: Federal law (18 U.S.C. § 922(g)) prohibits convicted felons from possessing firearms or ammunition. This means you legally cannot work in firearms or ammunition departments, handle guns, or complete firearms sales. However, Cabela's has many other departments where this restriction doesn't apply.

Background Check Process at Cabela's

Understanding the background check helps you prepare mentally and practically for the hiring process.

When It Happens

Cabela's conducts background checks after interviews, typically before making a final offer. You'll usually complete at least one interview to demonstrate your qualifications and outdoor knowledge before they investigate your background.

Store managers assess your personality, outdoor passion, and fit for the team before moving forward with background checks. This gives you opportunity to make a strong impression first.

What They Check

Cabela's typically conducts 7-year background checks covering:

• Criminal records: Felonies and misdemeanors from county, state, and federal databases

• Employment history: Verification of previous jobs you listed

• Identity verification: Confirming you are who you say you are

• Sex offender registry: Standard check for retail positions

  
  

Some positions may include:

• Credit check (mainly for management)

• Driving record (if position requires vehicle use)

How Long It Takes

Standard background checks take 3-10 business days. Delays happen if:

• You've lived in multiple states

• Court records are difficult to access

• Your name is common, requiring extra verification

• There are discrepancies in your application

What Happens If Issues Arise

If something concerning appears on your background check:

1. Cabela's may contact you to discuss the findings

2. You have an opportunity to explain circumstances or provide context

3. The store manager reviews your case with HR

4. A final decision is made based on company policy and individual circumstances

   
   

Store managers have some input in hiring decisions. A manager who values your outdoor knowledge and saw your genuine enthusiasm during interviews may advocate for you. Building strong rapport during the interview process helps significantly.

Special Considerations for Firearms Restrictions

If you have a felony conviction, you'll be restricted from:

• Working in the firearms or ammunition department

• Handling firearms or ammunition at any point

• Completing firearms sales transactions

• Accessing firearms storage areas

• Any position requiring firearms knowledge or interaction

  
  

This is federal law, not company policy. Cabela's must comply regardless of company preferences. However, this doesn't affect your ability to work in fishing, camping, marine, clothing, footwear, home goods, or other departments.

Bass Pro Shops Integration

Since Cabela's is owned by Bass Pro Shops, hiring practices are increasingly aligned. Both companies share similar philosophies about hiring outdoor enthusiasts and evaluating backgrounds case-by-case. Experience or knowledge from Bass Pro Shops hiring can apply to Cabela's.

Geographic Variations

"Ban the box" laws in many states require employers to delay criminal history questions until later in hiring. States like California, New York, and Illinois have stronger protections.

Store location matters. Stores in competitive labor markets may be more flexible. Rural locations might have fewer applicants, which could work in your favor or create more selectivity—it varies by specific store culture and needs.

Application Tips for Cabela's

Follow these specific strategies to maximize your chances of getting hired at Cabela's:

1. Apply Online First

   Visit cabelas.com/careers or the Bass Pro Shops career portal to search for positions at stores near you. Create a complete profile with accurate work history. Cabela's uses applicant tracking systems.

   
   

2. Visit the Store in Person

   After applying online, visit the store. Ask to speak with a department manager or store manager. Introduce yourself professionally, mention you applied online, and demonstrate your outdoor knowledge naturally in conversation. Personal connection helps significantly in outdoor retail.

   
   

3. Demonstrate Outdoor Knowledge and Passion

   Cabela's highly values genuine outdoor enthusiasm. If you hunt, fish, camp, or participate in outdoor activities, share specific experiences. Use proper terminology. Discuss your outdoor activities naturally. This passion matters more than you might realize in hiring decisions.

   
   

4. Target Non-Firearms Departments

   Be strategic about which departments interest you. Excellent options include:

   • Fishing (usually the largest department)

   • Camping and outdoor gear

   • Marine center

   • Footwear and clothing

   • Home and cabin decor

   • Archery (generally accessible despite being hunting-related)

   Avoid discussing firearms department work if you have a felony.

   
   

5. Emphasize Physical Capability

   Cabela's work involves heavy lifting (boats, kayaks, furniture, large items), warehouse work, and being on your feet all day. Emphasize your physical ability: "I'm comfortable with heavy lifting and physical work. I understand outdoor retail involves moving large items and demanding physical activity."

   
   

6. Be Ready for the Background Question

   When asked about your record, be honest but brief. Use this script: "I have a [type] conviction from [year]. I've completed my sentence, stayed out of trouble, and I'm focused on building my career doing what I love—working in the outdoor industry. I understand I can't work with firearms due to federal law, but I'm passionate about [fishing/camping/boating/etc.]."

   
   

7. Apply During Peak Hiring Seasons

   Best times to apply:

   • August-September: Pre-deer hunting season hiring

   • February-March: Pre-spring fishing season

   • October-November: Holiday season staffing

   • After major holidays: When seasonal workers leave

   Stores need more staff during these periods and may be more flexible with hiring decisions.

   
   

8. Show Conservation Values

   Cabela's, like Bass Pro Shops, supports conservation organizations and wildlife management. Mention your respect for conservation ethics, wildlife management principles, and responsible outdoor recreation. This aligns with company values and culture.

   
   

9. Dress Appropriately for Interview

   Outdoor casual for interview—clean jeans or khakis, flannel or polo shirt, outdoor boots or casual shoes. You're applying for outdoor retail, not corporate office work. Look presentable but practical. Showing up in hunting or fishing branded apparel (tastefully) can even help demonstrate your outdoor lifestyle.

   
   

10. Prepare Specific Outdoor Examples

    Have outdoor stories ready: "Last season I caught..." or "My most memorable hunting experience was..." or "I camp regularly at..." This demonstrates genuine involvement in outdoor activities, not just interest. Specific stories and experiences resonate with outdoor retail managers.

    
    

11. Ask Good Questions

    Show genuine interest:

    • "What outdoor activities do most employees here participate in?"

    • "How does Cabela's support employee education about new products and gear?"

    • "What opportunities exist to advance from

    
    

12. Consider Starting Seasonal

    Seasonal positions during peak hunting or fishing seasons are easier to get hired for. Once you prove your reliability, outdoor knowledge, and work ethic, transitioning to permanent employment becomes much easier. Many permanent Cabela's employees started seasonally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I work at Cabela's with a felony conviction if I don't touch firearms?

A: Yes, absolutely. Federal law prohibits felons from possessing firearms, but you can work in any department that doesn't involve guns or ammunition. Most Cabela's departments—fishing, camping, marine, clothing, footwear, home goods—don't involve firearms at all. Be upfront about the restriction and focus on other departments where your outdoor knowledge applies.

Q: Will my drug conviction disqualify me from Cabela's?

A: Not automatically. Drug-related felonies (especially possession charges) are generally viewed more favorably than violent offenses or theft. Be honest about your conviction, emphasize your rehabilitation and outdoor passion, and focus on departments that match your outdoor knowledge.

Q: Does Cabela's do drug testing?

A: Yes. Cabela's typically requires pre-employment drug testing. This usually tests for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, and PCP. If you're prescribed medications, bring documentation. Plan accordingly, as marijuana remains tested despite changing state laws.

Q: How long after my conviction should I wait before applying?

A: There's no official waiting period, but 3+ years helps significantly. If you're still on probation or parole, you can still apply—just be prepared to work around any requirements and be honest about your obligations. Focus on demonstrating your outdoor knowledge and reliability.

Q: What if I'm passionate about the outdoors but have limited experience?

A: Start building experience now. Go fishing, visit state parks for camping, learn about outdoor gear, join outdoor forums and communities. Study products on Cabela's website. Genuine enthusiasm combined with willingness to learn can compensate for limited hands-on experience. Take a hunter safety course or fishing course to show commitment.

Q: Are there positions that don't require customer interaction?

A: Yes. Warehouse associate, stock associate, receiving associate, and lot attendant positions involve minimal customer interaction. These behind-the-scenes roles focus on physical work and organization rather than customer service, making them good options if you prefer less social interaction.

Q: Will Cabela's see arrests that didn't result in convictions?

A: This depends on your state. Some states prohibit considering arrests without convictions. If arrests appear on your background check, briefly explain: "That charge was dismissed" or "I was found not guilty." Keep explanations factual and brief without elaboration.

Q: Can I advance to management with a felony record?

A: Possibly. Cabela's promotes from within when employees demonstrate reliability, outdoor knowledge, and leadership. If you prove yourself hardworking and knowledgeable, advancement opportunities exist. Management positions face more scrutiny, but aren't impossible if you've demonstrated long-term reliability and value to the company.

Q: What about theft convictions specifically?

A: Theft convictions make retail positions more challenging since you'll handle merchandise, cash, and expensive outdoor equipment. Focus on positions with less direct inventory responsibility, like warehouse or lot attendant. Emphasize time since conviction and demonstrate rehabilitation. Theft from an employer is viewed most seriously, while other theft may be considered more flexibly.

Q: Does Cabela's hire people currently on probation?

A: Possibly. Probation doesn't automatically disqualify you, but you must meet work schedule requirements (including weekends and holidays) while fulfilling probation obligations. Be upfront with your probation officer and potential employer about schedule needs. Some managers appreciate that active probation demonstrates accountability.

Similar Felon-Friendly Outdoor Companies

If Cabela's doesn't work out or you want to maximize your options, consider these similar outdoor retailers that also hire people with felony records:

Bass Pro Shops – Parent company of Cabela's with identical hiring practices. Over 170 stores with similar outdoor focus.

Sportsman's Warehouse – Regional outdoor retailer with case-by-case hiring policies. Growing chain with practical approaches.

Scheels – Large-format sporting goods stores in Midwest and West. Employee-owned company with individualized hiring.

Dick's Sporting Goods – Broader sporting goods focus including outdoor gear. More corporate but case-by-case hiring.

Gander Outdoors / Gander RV – Outdoor and RV retailer. Various locations with practical hiring approaches.

REI – Outdoor co-op focusing on camping, hiking, climbing. Progressive hiring policies including second-chance employment.

Local outdoor shops – Independent hunting, fishing, and camping retailers often very flexible with backgrounds and provide personalized hiring.

Apply to multiple outdoor retailers simultaneously. Don't wait for rejections—cast a wide net. Someone needs outdoor-knowledgeable employees right now.

Final Thoughts

Cabela's gives people with records a real chance if you love the outdoors. Your criminal history doesn't automatically disqualify you, especially if you can demonstrate genuine passion for hunting, fishing, camping, or other outdoor activities.

Be honest about your background and the federal firearms restriction, emphasize your outdoor knowledge and enthusiasm, and target non-firearms departments. Many people with felonies have built successful careers starting as Cabela's warehouse or sales associates, advancing through various departments based on their outdoor expertise and reliability.

Start here: Visit cabelas.com/careers to apply online, then visit your local Cabela's store in person to introduce yourself and share your passion for the outdoors with a manager. Your genuine outdoor enthusiasm can make the difference.