Bass Pro Irvine employee says I (20) need a hunting license for him to let me handle a gun.

Was in Bass Pro about 2 weeks ago and asked to see a few shotguns because I’m into clay sports. The guy at the counter asked to see my ID, I handled a few over/unders and semi autos no problem. I haven’t had a valid hunting license for about a year because that was the last time I bought a gun. I go in tonight and the guy asked for my ID and then asks if I have a valid hunting license, I replied that I didn’t and that I didn’t need one because I’m not purchasing it. He got very hostile and told me that it was necessary and I wouldn’t be able to see one unless I had a hunting license. This has never been my experience at any gun shop I have been to. Turners, the same Bass Pro and other LGS have never asked for my hunting license. Is that really the law? I’m 99% sure I was in the right.

Edit: He also told me, “I am all about compliance” To which I responded, “You should make sure that your staff knows that policy because that wasn’t the case a couple weeks ago”