Bass Pro Shops: A Comprehensive Overview
Bass Pro Shops is a privately held American retailer of hunting, fishing, camping, and other outdoor recreation merchandise.
Founded in 1971 by Johnny Morris, the company’s headquarters is located in Springfield, Missouri, United States.
Today, the company has over 200 stores in the United States and Canada, as well as several resorts and marinas, making it one of the largest outdoor retailers in the world.
Bass Pro Shops offers a wide variety of outdoor gear, including hunting and fishing equipment, camping gear, boats and marine accessories, and clothing and footwear.
In this blog post, we will explore the history of Bass Pro Shops, the products they offer, and their commitment to conservation.
#1. History of Bass Pro Shops
Bass Pro Shops was founded in 1972 by Johnny Morris, who began selling fishing tackle from the back of his father’s liquor store in Springfield, Missouri.
Morris recognized the need for a specialty store that catered to outdoor enthusiasts and soon expanded his offerings to include hunting and camping gear.
In 1974, Morris opened the first Bass Pro store, which was located in Springfield, Missouri. The store was an immediate success, and Morris began opening additional locations throughout the Midwest.
Over the next few decades, Morris continued to expand the company’s offerings, and by the late 1990s, Bass Pro Shop had become a major player in the outdoor retail industry.
Today, the company has over 200 stores in the United States and Canada, as well as several resorts and marinas.
#2. Product Offerings
Bass Pro Shops is known for its wide range of hunting, fishing, camping, and other outdoor recreation merchandise. The company’s product offerings include:
A. Hunting gear
It offers a wide range of hunting gear, including rifles, shotguns, ammunition, scopes, and hunting apparel. The company also offers a variety of hunting accessories, such as tree stands, game calls, and decoys.
B. Fishing gear
These Shops are known for their extensive selection of fishing gear, including fishing rods, reels, lures, and tackle. The company also offers a variety of fishing accessories, such as fish finders, nets, and waders.
C. Camping gear
Bass Pro Shops offers a wide range of camping gear, including tents, sleeping bags, backpacks, and camp stoves. The company also offers a variety of camping accessories, such as lanterns, coolers, and camping chairs.
D. Boating and marine gear
In addition to hunting, fishing, and camping gear, they also offer a wide range of boating and marine gear, including boats, kayaks, canoes, and marine electronics.
The company also operates several marinas and resorts, which offer boat rentals and other marine services.
#3. Unique Features of Bass Pro Shops
Pro Bass Shops has several unique features that make it stand out from other outdoor retailers. These include:
A. Themed stores
These stores are known for their unique themes and immersive environments. Many stores feature aquariums, waterfalls, and other natural elements, as well as exhibits and displays that showcase local wildlife and outdoor activities.
B. Conservation efforts
Bass Pro Shop is committed to conservation efforts, and the company works closely with a variety of organizations to promote wildlife preservation and habitat restoration.
The company also hosts several events and programs each year that promote outdoor education and conservation.
C. Customer service
They are also known for their exceptional customer service. The company’s employees are knowledgeable and passionate about outdoor recreation, and they are always willing to offer advice and assistance to customers.
D. Outdoor skills workshops
They offer a variety of outdoor skills workshops and classes, which are designed to help customers learn new skills and improve their outdoor recreation experience.
These workshops cover a variety of topics, including hunting, fishing, camping, and boating.
#4. Loyalty program
Their loyalty program is called Bass Pro Shops Outdoor Rewards. This program allows customers to earn points for their purchases, which can be redeemed for discounts on future purchases.
The program also offers special perks, such as free gear and expedited shipping.
#5. Online store
Bass Pro and Cabela’s have robust online store, which offers the same wide range of products as their physical stores.
Customers can shop online and have their purchases delivered directly to their doorstep, or they can choose to pick up their orders at a local store.
#6. Restaurants and cafes
Many Bass Pro Shops locations feature resorts and restaurants and cafes, which offer a variety of food and drink options.
These dining options often feature rustic, outdoor-themed decor, which adds to the immersive experience of shopping at Bass Pro Shops.
#7. Sponsorship and partnerships
Bass Pro Shops is a major sponsor of several outdoor events and organizations, such as the National Wild Turkey Federation and the Bassmaster Tournament Trail.
The company also partners with other outdoor retailers and manufacturers, such as Cabela’s and RedHead.
#8. Community involvement
Bass Pro Shops is deeply involved in the communities where its stores are located. The company sponsors and hosts several events each year, such as fishing tournaments and charity fundraisers.
Bass Pro Shops also supports local conservation and outdoor education efforts.
Conclusion
Bass Pro Shops is a leading retailer of hunting, fishing, camping, and other outdoor recreation merchandise. The company’s commitment to conservation, immersive store themes, exceptional customer service, and outdoor skills workshops make it a unique and beloved brand among outdoor enthusiasts.
With over 200 stores in the United States and Canada, as well as several resorts and marinas, Bass Pro Shops is a major player in the outdoor retail industry, and it shows no signs of slowing down.