What the Bass Pro Shops Credit Card Is

The Bass Pro Shops credit card is a store card issued by Synchrony Bank that you can use at Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's locations. It works like most retail credit cards: you get it through an in-store or online request, use it to make purchases at those retailers, and pay the balance each month. The card comes with rewards tied to your spending at Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's, but it can only be used at those two chains—not at other stores or restaurants.

This card is different from a general-purpose credit card (like Visa or Mastercard) because the rewards and benefits explore only to Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's purchases. If you shop at those retailers regularly, the rewards structure may be worth considering. If you rarely visit those stores, a standard credit card might serve you better.

Key Takeaways

  • The Bass Pro Shops credit card is a store card issued by Synchrony Bank that works only at Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's locations.
  • The card offers rewards points on purchases, with higher earning rates during promotional periods, but the exact rewards structure varies and you should confirm current terms before requesting the card.
  • You can request the card in-store at Bass Pro Shops or Cabela's, or online through the Bass Pro Shops website.
  • The card comes with a credit check, so your credit history and current credit score will affect whether you receive approval and what interest rate you are offered.
  • Like all credit cards, you are responsible for paying your balance on time each month to avoid interest charges and damage to your credit report.

How to Request the Bass Pro Shops Credit Card

You can request the card in two ways: in-store or online. If you are shopping at Bass Pro Shops or Cabela's, you can ask a cashier or customer service representative for an process. They will hand you a paper form or direct you to a kiosk where you can fill out your information on the spot. The in-store process usually takes a few minutes, and you may receive a decision right away or within a few days.

To request online, visit the Bass Pro Shops website and look for the credit card offer. You will enter your personal information, including your name, address, date of birth, Social Security number, and income. Synchrony Bank will then check your credit report to decide whether to approve you. The online process typically takes longer than in-store—usually a few days to a week—before you hear back.

Either way, you will need to provide accurate information. Synchrony Bank will verify your identity and credit history, so make sure the details you submit match your credit report and government-issued ID.

What Happens During the Credit Check

When you request the Bass Pro Shops credit card, Synchrony Bank pulls your credit report from one or more of the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion). This is called a hard inquiry, and it may lower your credit score by a few points temporarily. The bank uses your credit history, current debts, and payment record to decide whether to approve you and what interest rate to offer.

If you have a higher credit score and a clean payment history, you are more likely to be approved and to receive a lower interest rate. If your credit score is lower or you have missed payments in the past, you might still be approved, but the interest rate could be higher. Some people are denied approval altogether, depending on their credit profile.

The hard inquiry stays on your credit report for about two years, though its impact on your score fades after a few months. If you are denied, you can ask Synchrony Bank why, and you have the right to request a free copy of your credit report from each bureau once per year through AnnualCreditReport.com.

Rewards, Interest Rates, and Fees

The Bass Pro Shops credit card earns rewards points on purchases at Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's. The exact earning rate depends on the current offer—some periods offer higher points per dollar spent, and the card may have promotional periods where you earn bonus points. You should check the current terms on the Bass Pro Shops website or ask in-store before you request the card, because these offers change.

The card carries an interest rate (called the Annual Percentage Rate, or APR) that Synchrony Bank sets based on your credit score and credit history. This rate determines how much interest you pay if you carry a balance from month to month. The card may also have an annual fee, though many store cards do not—again, check the current terms to be sure.

Rewards points can usually be redeemed as discounts on future purchases at Bass Pro Shops or Cabela's. Some cards let you redeem points for a statement credit or other rewards, but the Bass Pro Shops card typically ties rewards to store purchases. Read the rewards terms carefully so you understand how to use the points you earn.

How to set up and Use Your Card

Once you receive your Bass Pro Shops credit card in the mail, you will need to set up it before you can use it. Synchrony Bank will include instructions with the card—usually you call a phone number on the back of the card or visit a website to confirm you received it. set up typically takes just a few minutes.

After set up, you can use the card at any Bass Pro Shops or Cabela's location, in-store or online. You cannot use it at other retailers. Each time you make a purchase, the charge appears on your monthly statement from Synchrony Bank. You will receive a bill each month showing your balance, minimum payment due, and due date.

To avoid interest charges, pay your full balance by the due date each month. If you pay only the minimum, the remaining balance will accrue interest at your card's APR. Over time, carrying a balance can cost you significantly in interest and may hurt your credit score if your balance gets too high relative to your credit limit.

Managing Your Account and Paying Your Bill

You can manage your Bass Pro Shops credit card account through Synchrony Bank's online portal or mobile app. Log in with your account number and password to view your balance, make payments, see your rewards points, and read statements. Synchrony also allows you to set up automatic payments, which can help you avoid missing a due date.

Your monthly bill is due on a specific date each month—this date is listed on your statement. You can pay online, by phone, by mail, or in-store at Bass Pro Shops or Cabela's. Paying online or by phone is usually fastest and safest. If you pay by mail, allow extra time for the payment to arrive and be processed.

If you miss a payment, Synchrony Bank will charge a late fee and may report the missed payment to the credit bureaus, which will damage your credit score. If you are having trouble making a payment, contact Synchrony Bank as soon as possible to discuss your options—they may be able to work out a payment plan or temporary arrangement.

When a Store Card Makes Sense

The Bass Pro Shops credit card is worth considering if you shop at Bass Pro Shops or Cabela's regularly and want to earn rewards on those purchases. The rewards can add up over time, especially if you spend a lot at those retailers. However, if you shop there only occasionally, a general-purpose credit card (like a Visa or Mastercard) might give you better value because you can earn rewards at any store.

Store cards also tend to have higher interest rates than general-purpose cards, so carrying a balance can be expensive. If you are not confident you can pay your full balance each month, a store card may not be the best choice. The key is to use the card only for purchases you can pay off in full when the bill arrives.

Before you request the card, compare the rewards rate and any annual fee to what you would earn with a general-purpose rewards card. Also consider your credit score—if you are working to build or repair your credit, a store card can be a stepping stone, but only if you pay on time every month.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use the Bass Pro Shops credit card anywhere besides Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's?

No. The Bass Pro Shops credit card is a store card and works only at Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's locations, both in-store and online. If you need a card you can use at other retailers, you would need a general-purpose credit card like Visa or Mastercard.

What if I am denied for the Bass Pro Shops credit card?

If you are denied, Synchrony Bank will send you a letter explaining the reason. Common reasons include a low credit score, recent missed payments, or too much existing debt. You can request a free copy of your credit report from AnnualCreditReport.com to see what information Synchrony reviewed. You can also reapply after your credit improves, or consider a general-purpose credit card that may have less strict approval requirements.

Do I have to pay an annual fee for the Bass Pro Shops credit card?

Some versions of the card have an annual fee and some do not. The current terms vary, so check the Bass Pro Shops website or ask in-store before you request the card. If there is an annual fee, make sure the rewards you earn justify the cost.

What happens if I do not pay my balance in full?

If you carry a balance, Synchrony Bank will charge you interest at your card's APR. The interest is added to your balance each month, so the amount you owe grows. If you miss a payment, you will also be charged a late fee and the missed payment may be reported to the credit bureaus, which will lower your credit score.

Can I transfer my Bass Pro Shops credit card balance to another card?

Most store cards, including the Bass Pro Shops card, do not allow balance transfers. If you need to move a balance from this card to another card, you would have to pay off the Bass Pro Shops card first and then open a new card. Check your cardholder agreement or contact Synchrony Bank to confirm the current policy.