Known for its wide array of outdoor gear, expert advice, and immersive shopping experiences, Bass Pro Shops has become a go-to retailer for those who enjoy activities like fishing, hunting, camping, hiking, and more. Founded in 1972 by Johnny Morris, Bass Pro Shops has grown from a small tackle shop to one of the largest and most influential outdoor retailers in the world. With over 170 locations across the United States and Canada, the company continues to inspire adventure and bring outdoor enthusiasts together.
A Rich History: From Humble Beginnings to Outdoor Empire
Bass Pro Shops’ journey began with Johnny Morris’ passion for fishing and the outdoors. After working at a local bait shop as a young man, Morris saw a significant opportunity to create a business that could cater to the growing demand for fishing gear. In 1972, he opened his first store in Springfield, Missouri, initially offering a selection of tackle and gear for fishing enthusiasts. The store was a hit with locals and quickly gained a loyal following.
As time went on, Morris expanded the product offerings to include a variety of outdoor gear for other activities, including camping, hunting, and boating. By the 1980s, already gaining a reputation as a retailer for high-quality outdoor products, and it didn’t take long before the company expanded beyond its original location.
These flagship stores, located in large, often scenic areas, offered customers not just products, but experiences. In addition to carrying outdoor gear, these stores became destinations that featured massive aquariums, indoor archery ranges, and even taxidermy displays. Designed to immerse visitors in the outdoor lifestyle, and it quickly became a favorite destination for both seasoned outdoorsmen and those new to outdoor activities.
The Bass Pro Shops Experience: Shopping as Adventure
Many of the company’s flagship locations are designed to feel like outdoor museums and nature preserves. Visitors are often greeted with awe-inspiring sights such as massive fish tanks filled with local species, towering taxidermy displays of wildlife, and rustic wooden interiors that evoke the feeling of a lodge in the wild.
These stores are more than just places to buy gear; they’re immersive spaces that reflect the spirit of the great outdoors. Some locations even feature indoor boat shows, complete with fully stocked fishing and camping departments, shooting ranges, and rock climbing walls. These experiences provide customers with a unique opportunity to test equipment, receive expert advice, and enjoy the excitement of being surrounded by the tools and culture of outdoor adventures.
The company’s commitment to outdoor experiences extends beyond the shopping floor. Hosts a variety of events throughout the year, such as fishing tournaments, hunting and camping clinics, and youth education programs. These events help foster a sense of community and allow customers to learn new skills while celebrating their shared passion for the outdoors.
Product Range: Comprehensive Gear for Every Outdoor Pursuit
Offers a wide variety of products to cater to every outdoor enthusiast’s needs. Whether you’re an avid hunter, fisherman, boater, or camper, you’ll find everything you need to make your adventures more enjoyable. Here are some of the key product categories in:
- Fishing Gear: Perhaps best known for its fishing department, which offers an extensive selection of rods, reels, tackle, lures, and accessories. The store carries products from top brands like Abu Garcia, Shakespeare, and Berkley, making it a favorite destination for anglers of all skill levels. Offers a wide selection of boats, including kayaks, canoes, and bass boats, to help fishermen take their adventures to the next level.
- Hunting Gear: For hunters, they provides an extensive array of firearms, ammunition, and hunting accessories. Whether you’re into bow hunting, rifle hunting, or waterfowl hunting, you’ll find the gear you need. The store also offers a wide range of camouflage clothing, tree stands, decoys, and hunting knives from trusted brands like Browning, Remington, and Mossy Oak.
- Camping Equipment: From tents and sleeping bags to cooking gear and backpacks, has everything you need for your next camping trip. The company offers products for both casual campers and seasoned outdoor explorers, ensuring that every trip into the wilderness is safe, comfortable, and enjoyable. Customers can also find camping furniture, portable grills, and solar-powered lanterns for all the comforts of home in the great outdoors.
- Outdoor Apparel: Carries a wide selection of clothing for outdoor enthusiasts, including durable, weather-resistant jackets, hiking boots, and fishing gear. The store offers both functional and fashionable options, including workwear and activewear that provide protection and comfort during outdoor activities. Popular brands like Columbia, The North Face, and RedHead can be found in the apparel section.
- Boating and Water Sports: As an outdoor retailer with a strong focus on aquatic activities, offers a wide range of boating equipment, including motorized boats, paddle boats, kayaks, and canoes. The company also carries life vests, tubes, paddles, and other accessories necessary for water sports, making it easy to find everything needed for a day on the water.
- Outdoor Home and Gifts: For customers who want to bring the spirit of the outdoors into their homes, also offers a wide range of home décor and gifts. The store carries rustic furniture, nature-inspired artwork, and wildlife-themed items that make great gifts for outdoor enthusiasts. Customers can also find outdoor cooking gear, including smokers, grills, and fire pits, to create an outdoor living space that reflects their love for nature.
Conservation and Community Engagement
Deeply committed to conservation efforts and giving back to the outdoor community. Johnny Morris has long believed in the importance of preserving natural resources and wildlife for future generations. As part of this commitment, partnered with a variety of environmental organizations and government agencies to support wildlife conservation, protect public lands, and promote outdoor education.
The company has also supported various initiatives to make outdoor activities more accessible to young people, including youth fishing programs, outdoor skills workshops, and school partnerships that focus on environmental stewardship. Additionally, runs the Johnny Morris Conservation Foundation, which works to preserve wildlife habitats and support conservation efforts around the country.
Bass Pro Shops’ Expansion and Acquisitions
Expanded its influence through several key acquisitions. In 2017, acquired Cabela’s, another iconic outdoor retailer, further solidifying its position as one of the largest outdoor retailers in North America. This acquisition combined the strengths of both brands, enabling Bass Pro Shops to offer an even broader range of products and services.
The company continues to expand its footprint, with several new locations planned for the future, particularly in markets where outdoor activities are deeply rooted in local culture. As part of its commitment to growth, working to enhance its online shopping experience, offering customers easy access to thousands of products for delivery or in-store pickup.
Conclusion
Become much more than just a retailer; it has grown into a symbol of the outdoor lifestyle. With its extensive selection of gear, its commitment to conservation, and its focus on providing an immersive shopping experience, continues to inspire adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts around the world. Whether you’re gearing up for a weekend camping trip, preparing for hunting season, or simply looking to explore the great outdoors, remains a trusted partner in helping you pursue your passion.
