Bass Pro Shops
Bass Pro Shops is a premier American retailer of fishing, hunting, camping, and outdoor recreation merchandise. The company is famous for its massive, experiential retail stores and a brand deeply rooted in American outdoor culture.
The company was founded in 1972 by Johnny Morris in Springfield, Missouri. It began as a small fishing tackle section in his father's liquor store.
The company's breakthrough success came from pioneering mail-order catalogs, which allowed Morris to sell specialized fishing gear, particularly for Black Bass, across the entire country.
Experiential Stores (Destinations): Since the 1980s, Bass Pro Shops has built its famous retail locations which are more than just stores; they are tourist destinations. They often feature large indoor aquariums, waterfalls, wildlife museums, and themed restaurants.
Key Brands and Holdings:
Cabela's: In 2017, Bass Pro Shops acquired its main competitor, Cabela's, creating a massive retail powerhouse.
Tracker Marine Group: The company is also a major manufacturer and distributor of fishing and recreational boats (brands like Tracker, Nitro, Mako).
Johnny Morris and Bass Pro Shops are vocal advocates for conservation and have become synonymous with high-quality gear for the American outdoors. Their headquarters in Springfield, known as "The Granddaddy of All Outdoor Stores," is one of Missouri's largest tourist attractions.
