BrandWikiReturn

Bass Pro Shops

BPS Direct, LLC, doing business as Bass Pro Shops, is an American privately held sporting goods retailer that offers hunting, fishing, camping, and other related outdoor recreation equipment, marine manufacturing and sales, and outdoor resorts. The stores feature natural outdoor designs and decorations. Bass Pro Shops support conservation efforts, organizations that support the United States Armed Services and Veterans, and outdoor education and recreation for youth. The company's headquarters, original store, and the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium are located in Springfield, Missouri.[1]

History

In 1972, 24-year-old Johnny Morris started selling fishing tackle out of his dad's Brown Derby Liquor Store in Springfield, Missouri.[2] His father, John A. Morris, was a World War II veteran and often took the family hunting and fishing, which Johnny Morris cited as what taught him to love the outdoors.[3] People who bought tackle from Morris in Springfield continued to request specialized gear from him even after they left the area. To meet their demand, Morris created the first Bass Pro Shops catalog in 1974.[4] In 1978, Morris introduced Tracker Boats, the first boat, motor, and trailer package designed for anglers.[5] Later the boats sold through Tracker Marine Group, owned by Bass Pro Shops.[3]

In 1981, Morris opened the first Bass Pro Shops outdoor store in Springfield.[6] A few years later in 1987, Morris bought an empty plot of land on Table Rock Lake in Missouri's Ozark Mountains.[7] One year later, at that location, he opened Big Cedar Lodge resort.[7][8] The resort has five golf courses, and an outdoor arena.[9]

The second Bass Pro Shops location opened in Duluth, Georgia in 1995.[8] From then until 2004, the company opened 3–4 stores a year, and 7–9 stores a year from 2005 to 2008.[10] In 2006, the first store was opened in Colorado,[11] and the first Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World in Arkansas opened in 2013.[12] In 2015, Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid opened in Memphis, Tennessee.[13] The location includes interactive conservation exhibits, a giant cypress swamp, an alligator habitat, a hotel, restaurants, shopping, a bowling alley, a 28-story free-standing elevator, and an arcade.[14]

The company acquired Cabela's Inc. for $4.5 billion in 2016.[15]

In 2017, Morris opened the Wonders of Wildlife Museum & Aquarium adjacent to Springfield's Bass Pro Shops, which is considered the largest wildlife attraction in the world.[16][17] In 2022, Bass Pro Shops announced a new Bass Pro fishing resort would be built in Marathon, Florida, on Valhalla Island.[18] In July 2025, Bass Pro Shops and Big Cedar Lodge officially opened a new par-3 18-hole golf course called Cliffhangers, located in Hollister, Missouri. [19]

Starting in 2010, and continuing through 2025, Bass Pro Shops has been repeatedly accused of benefiting from billions in subsidies from taxpayers while failing to deliver on their promises of tourist and economic activity. [20] [21]

Acquisitions

In 2016, the company acquired Cabela's Inc. for $4.5 billion.[15]

The deal was financed via preferred equity financing from Goldman Sachs and Pamplona. Goldman Sachs contributed $1.8 billion towards financing and Pamplona contributed $600 million. In 2019, Bass Pro Shops sold eleven of Cabela's stores to Sansome Pacific for $324.3 million in a sale-leaseback program.[22][23][24] The acquisition of Cabela's resulted in 2,000 jobs lost in Sidney, Nebraska, Cabela's headquarters at the time of the acquisition.[25][26] Since the acquisition, three stores have closed and eight new stores have opened.[27] As part of Cabela's acquisition, the company agreed to sell the assets and liabilities of the World Foremost Bank to Synovus and Capital One, a transfer of over $1 billion in assets.[28][29]

In 2020, Great Outdoors Group, the parent company of Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's, attempted to acquire Sportsman's Warehouse.[30] However, the deal was canceled in 2021 after the Federal Trade Commission indicated they were not going to provide clearance.[31]

In 2023, Bass Pro Shops and Bluegreen Corporation announced plans to acquire the Branson Cedars Resort.[32]

In September 2025, Bass Pro Shops and White River Marine Group announced the acquisition of water sports brand Hobie, with plans to return Hobie production and jobs from Mexico to Lebanon, Missouri. This acquisition united two manufacturers with a combined 128 years of providing watercraft to outdoor enthusiasts around the world.[33]

Operating divisions

Retail stores

Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's operates retail locations in the United States, as well as in Canada.[34] The most common stores are Outdoor World stores.[34] Their largest store is the Pyramid in Memphis, Tennessee.[35] As of March 2026, the company operates 181 Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's stores combined.

Store types

At every Bass Pro location, there are names on the front of the buildings to represent their theme and location, commonly named based on the local area. As of 2022, there are five types of stores: Outdoor World, Outpost, Stick Marsh Outpost, Sportsman's Center, and White River Outpost. All locations contain an aquarium as well as animal statues, waterfalls, etc.[36][37][38][39][40] Fourteen of the stores have replica natural habitat displays created by TreeScapes & PlantWorks.[41]

  • Outdoor World: Themed around a cypress forest. Features wood and rock architecture, faux rivers, animal displays, trees, foliage, and murals of outdoor scenes. The Outdoor World in Harrisburg has a 60,000 gallon aquarium.[42] The Denver location was created with a "great lodge" theme.[37] It includes a log and rockwork entrance, a gabled clerestory, outdoor-themed chandeliers, concrete flooring imprinted with dinosaur fossils and wildlife tracks, and a 21,000-gallon freshwater aquarium.[37]
  • Outpost: Themed around a wooden outpost similar to a cabin or cottage. Intended to feature less theming in the aisles than Outdoor World. The stores include aquariums and water features, local antiques and artifacts, trophy fish and wildlife mounts, and murals of local scenes.[43] One Outpost was designed with a lobby that resembles an old boat yard warehouse and blacksmith's shop.[40]
  • Sportsman's Center: Sportsman's Center locations include a less themed exterior, but many animal displays and foliage inside. The Miami, Florida location is themed around an underwater exploration and includes a sunken ship display that doubles as a 19,000-gallon saltwater aquarium.[44]
  • Stick Marsh Outpost: Themed around a slightly deteriorated outpost in the Everglades, featuring swamp murals, trees, swamp animal statues, photo collections, hanging willow leaves, and an old pickup truck on the ceiling. It is unique to the Palm Bay, Florida location.[45]
  • White River Outpost: Themed around the forests along the White River in the Ozarks, featuring wooden walls, trees, and has many photo collections. It is unique to the Branson, Missouri location.[46]

Store types

At every Bass Pro location, there are names on the front of the buildings to represent their theme and location, commonly named based on the local area. As of 2022, there are five types of stores: Outdoor World, Outpost, Stick Marsh Outpost, Sportsman's Center, and White River Outpost. All locations contain an aquarium as well as animal statues, waterfalls, etc.[36][37][38][39][40] Fourteen of the stores have replica natural habitat displays created by TreeScapes & PlantWorks.[41]

  • Outdoor World: Themed around a cypress forest. Features wood and rock architecture, faux rivers, animal displays, trees, foliage, and murals of outdoor scenes. The Outdoor World in Harrisburg has a 60,000 gallon aquarium.[42] The Denver location was created with a "great lodge" theme.[37] It includes a log and rockwork entrance, a gabled clerestory, outdoor-themed chandeliers, concrete flooring imprinted with dinosaur fossils and wildlife tracks, and a 21,000-gallon freshwater aquarium.[37]
  • Outpost: Themed around a wooden outpost similar to a cabin or cottage. Intended to feature less theming in the aisles than Outdoor World. The stores include aquariums and water features, local antiques and artifacts, trophy fish and wildlife mounts, and murals of local scenes.[43] One Outpost was designed with a lobby that resembles an old boat yard warehouse and blacksmith's shop.[40]
  • Sportsman's Center: Sportsman's Center locations include a less themed exterior, but many animal displays and foliage inside. The Miami, Florida location is themed around an underwater exploration and includes a sunken ship display that doubles as a 19,000-gallon saltwater aquarium.[44]
  • Stick Marsh Outpost: Themed around a slightly deteriorated outpost in the Everglades, featuring swamp murals, trees, swamp animal statues, photo collections, hanging willow leaves, and an old pickup truck on the ceiling. It is unique to the Palm Bay, Florida location.[45]
  • White River Outpost: Themed around the forests along the White River in the Ozarks, featuring wooden walls, trees, and has many photo collections. It is unique to the Branson, Missouri location.[46]

Boat brands

Bass Pro Shops owns White River Marine Group which manufactures and distributes boats under the brand names Ranger, Nitro, Triton, Tahoe, Tracker, Sun Tracker, Regency, Mako, and Ascend.

On May 20, 2021, the White River Marine Group purchased Hatteras Yachts, a company that specializes in yachts and speedboats.[47][48]

Hospitality

Bass Pro Shops owns a number of resorts and restaurant brands, some of which are included here.

Resorts

  • Big Cedar Lodge: Located on Table Rock Lake in Missouri's Ozark Mountains.[8] The resort has five golf courses that have been recognized with several awards, and an outdoor arena, Thunder Ridge Nature Arena.[9] The newest course, Cliffhangers, features dramatic elevation changes, holes ranging from 60 to 170 yards, and is carved into the regions well known limestone cliffs. [49][50] The course was featured in the semi-finals of the inaugural Internet Invitational, which was filmed in August 2025 and aired in from October to November 2025.[51]
  • Big Cypress Lodge: Located inside the Bass Pro Shops in the Pyramid in Memphis.[52] It is the only hotel located inside a Bass Pro Shops store.[52] The hotel offers regular rooms, suites, cabins, and treehouses.[52]
  • Angler's Lodge: Located in Hollister, Missouri.[53]
  • Valhalla Island Resort: This resort was announced in 2022 and will be located in Marathon in the Florida Keys.[54] Over half of the development will remain as green space.[18]

Restaurants

  • Uncle Buck's FishBowl & Grill.[8]
  • White River Fish House.[55]
  • Hemingway's Blue Water Cafe.[56]
  • Finley Farms: which includes The Workshop (crafting and coffee shop); The Farm (an urban farm with fruits, vegetables, and flowers); The Garrison (fine dining); and The Ozark Mill (restaurant and event space).[57][58]

Resorts

  • Big Cedar Lodge: Located on Table Rock Lake in Missouri's Ozark Mountains.[8] The resort has five golf courses that have been recognized with several awards, and an outdoor arena, Thunder Ridge Nature Arena.[9] The newest course, Cliffhangers, features dramatic elevation changes, holes ranging from 60 to 170 yards, and is carved into the regions well known limestone cliffs. [49][50] The course was featured in the semi-finals of the inaugural Internet Invitational, which was filmed in August 2025 and aired in from October to November 2025.[51]
  • Big Cypress Lodge: Located inside the Bass Pro Shops in the Pyramid in Memphis.[52] It is the only hotel located inside a Bass Pro Shops store.[52] The hotel offers regular rooms, suites, cabins, and treehouses.[52]
  • Angler's Lodge: Located in Hollister, Missouri.[53]
  • Valhalla Island Resort: This resort was announced in 2022 and will be located in Marathon in the Florida Keys.[54] Over half of the development will remain as green space.[18]

Restaurants

  • Uncle Buck's FishBowl & Grill.[8]
  • White River Fish House.[55]
  • Hemingway's Blue Water Cafe.[56]
  • Finley Farms: which includes The Workshop (crafting and coffee shop); The Farm (an urban farm with fruits, vegetables, and flowers); The Garrison (fine dining); and The Ozark Mill (restaurant and event space).[57][58]

Outreach

Conservation

Bass Pro Shops has a history of supporting conservation initiatives throughout North America, contributing to many significant conservation organizations and initiatives. The company partners with conservation groups, including Ducks Unlimited, the National Wild Turkey Federation, the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation.[59]

In 2019, Morris and his family were awarded the Audubon Medal, in a ceremony at The Plaza Hotel in New York. The award was presented for a "lifetime passion for conservation and sharing the outdoors with everyone." National leaders from throughout the conservation community recognized Morris for his vision in convening a bold new movement to help unite and mobilize the next generation of conservation leadership across North America.[60]

In 2023, the University of Missouri Board of Curators approved the naming of the Johnny Morris Institute of Fisheries, Wetlands and Aquatic Systems, in recognition of the Bass Pro founder's contributions to conservation.[61]

Johnny Morris Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's Outdoor Fund

The Outdoor Fund is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.[62] Customers at Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's can donate to it by choosing to round up their purchases to support different conservation partners and projects.[62]

Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium

Bass Pro's Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium partners with departments like the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to care for sea turtles that are found injured, hosting them at the facilities sea turtle center.[63] Some of the sea turtles are unable to be returned to the wild and remain at the aquarium, while others are rehabilitated and released.[64] The aquarium has around 35,000 animals representing over 800 species[65][66] and was voted "America's Best Aquarium" in 2018, 2020-2024.[67][68][69]

In May 2025, Wonders of Wildlife was voted America's Best Aquarium for an unprecedented seventh time by USA Today readers, as part of its 10Best Readers' Choice Awards.[72] The honor came on the heels of Newsweek recognizing Wonders of Wildlife as Best Aquarium in its Readers' Choice Awards in February 2025.[73]

  • Sea turtles—Every year since 2021, WOW has hosted these critically-ill sea turtles suffering from cold-stunned phenomenon, caused by sudden drops in ocean temperatures and leaving them immobile and susceptible to severe conditions such as hypothermia, pneumonia, dehydration and unable to forage for food and defend themselves. This treatment includes hydration therapy, wound management, nutritional support and specialized veterinarian care.[70][71]

Audubon International Signature Sanctuary

All five golf courses at Big Cedar Lodge are designated as Audubon International Signature Sanctuary locations.[9] The certification process includes an evaluation of land management practices and land use, multiple site visits, and the implementation of a Natural Resource Management Plan that covers wildlife conservation and habitat enhancement, water quality monitoring and management, integrated pest management, water conservation, energy efficiency, waste reduction and management, and green building products and procedures.[74] Big Cedar Lodge is the only resort in the world that has all of its golf courses designated as Audubon International Signature Sanctuary locations.[75]

Thunder Ridge Nature Arena

The Thunder Ridge Nature Arena sits on the 1,200 acre Thunder Ridge property at Big Cedar Lodge.[76] This land was set aside as a nonprofit foundation.[77] All proceeds from events held at the arena are used to enhance Thunder Ridge land and support conservation efforts.[78] In July 2024, the Rolling Stones performed and demonstrated the region's capability to host major musical acts and attracted significant attention to the arena, indication its potential for large-scale entertainment event.[79][80]

Johnny Morris Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's Outdoor Fund

The Outdoor Fund is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.[62] Customers at Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's can donate to it by choosing to round up their purchases to support different conservation partners and projects.[62]

Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium

Bass Pro's Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium partners with departments like the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to care for sea turtles that are found injured, hosting them at the facilities sea turtle center.[63] Some of the sea turtles are unable to be returned to the wild and remain at the aquarium, while others are rehabilitated and released.[64] The aquarium has around 35,000 animals representing over 800 species[65][66] and was voted "America's Best Aquarium" in 2018, 2020-2024.[67][68][69]

In May 2025, Wonders of Wildlife was voted America's Best Aquarium for an unprecedented seventh time by USA Today readers, as part of its 10Best Readers' Choice Awards.[72] The honor came on the heels of Newsweek recognizing Wonders of Wildlife as Best Aquarium in its Readers' Choice Awards in February 2025.[73]

  • Sea turtles—Every year since 2021, WOW has hosted these critically-ill sea turtles suffering from cold-stunned phenomenon, caused by sudden drops in ocean temperatures and leaving them immobile and susceptible to severe conditions such as hypothermia, pneumonia, dehydration and unable to forage for food and defend themselves. This treatment includes hydration therapy, wound management, nutritional support and specialized veterinarian care.[70][71]

Audubon International Signature Sanctuary

All five golf courses at Big Cedar Lodge are designated as Audubon International Signature Sanctuary locations.[9] The certification process includes an evaluation of land management practices and land use, multiple site visits, and the implementation of a Natural Resource Management Plan that covers wildlife conservation and habitat enhancement, water quality monitoring and management, integrated pest management, water conservation, energy efficiency, waste reduction and management, and green building products and procedures.[74] Big Cedar Lodge is the only resort in the world that has all of its golf courses designated as Audubon International Signature Sanctuary locations.[75]

Thunder Ridge Nature Arena

The Thunder Ridge Nature Arena sits on the 1,200 acre Thunder Ridge property at Big Cedar Lodge.[76] This land was set aside as a nonprofit foundation.[77] All proceeds from events held at the arena are used to enhance Thunder Ridge land and support conservation efforts.[78] In July 2024, the Rolling Stones performed and demonstrated the region's capability to host major musical acts and attracted significant attention to the arena, indication its potential for large-scale entertainment event.[79][80]

Convoy of Hope

Bass Pro Shops has partnered with Convoy of Hope to provide disaster relief for those affected by tornadoes, wildfires, floods, and hurricanes.[81] Support has included food, supplies, donations, and boats.[82]

Military and veterans organizations

Bass Pro Shops regularly supports military and veterans organizations and events such as the United Service Organizations (USO), AMVETS, Helping a Hero, Folds of Honor, the Shadow Warrior Project's golf tournaments, and the 2021 Missouri Veterans Fishin' Contest.[83][84] Every month the company hosts Military Discount Days, giving active duty and retired military a discount off regularly priced items.[83]

In 2022, The Association of the United States Army (AUSA) awarded Bass Pro Shops and Johnny Morris the National Service Award for "recognition of exemplary service and demonstrated enduring support to the American Soldier and the United States Army community."[84]

In 2024, Bass Pro Shops partnered with the Army & Air Force Exchange Service to become an official outdoor gear provider, providing exclusive savings on outdoor gear to veterans and active-duty military members in all 50 states and 30 countries around the world.[85]

Helping a Hero

In 2021, Bass Pro Shops and Helping a Hero held the Helping a Hero telethon to raise money for Helping a Hero and to raise awareness for the 100 Homes Challenge issued by Johnny Morris.[86] Under the challenge, Bass Pro Shops paid for 25% of the next 100 homes built by Helping a Hero.[87] The company also paid 100% of the cost of 10 homes.[88] Helping a Hero uses community support to provide wounded veterans with homes adapted to their possible disabilities.[89]

Helping a Hero

In 2021, Bass Pro Shops and Helping a Hero held the Helping a Hero telethon to raise money for Helping a Hero and to raise awareness for the 100 Homes Challenge issued by Johnny Morris.[86] Under the challenge, Bass Pro Shops paid for 25% of the next 100 homes built by Helping a Hero.[87] The company also paid 100% of the cost of 10 homes.[88] Helping a Hero uses community support to provide wounded veterans with homes adapted to their possible disabilities.[89]

Sponsorships

Conservation

Bass Pro Shops works with a number of organizations to sponsor conservation. These include:

  • Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation[90][91]
  • Pheasants Forever[92]
  • National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF)[93][94]
  • Ducks Unlimited[95][96]
  • National Deer Association[97]
  • National Wild Turkey Federation[62]
  • Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership[98]
  • Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation[98]

Affiliation with NASCAR

Since 1998, Bass Pro Shops has been a longtime partner of Richard Childress Racing.[99] As of the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season, they are the primary sponsor for the No. 3 car driven by Austin Dillon of Richard Childress Racing, the No. 19 car driven by Chase Briscoe of Joe Gibbs Racing for all 36 races, and the No. 56 car driven by Martin Truex Jr. of TRICON Garage.[100] Bass Pro Shops also sponsors and hosts the Bass Pro Shops Night Race at Bristol Motor Speedway.

In previous seasons, they have also sponsored Dale Earnhardt,[101] Tony Stewart,[102] Jamie McMurray, Ryan Newman,[101] Ty Dillon,[103] and Daniel Hemric. The company also sponsored Dale Earnhardt Jr.'s one-off Xfinity race.

NRA National Sporting Arms Museum

The National Rifle Association National Sporting Arms Museum opened in Springfield's Bass Pro Shop on August 2, 2013.[104] It features sporting artifacts, including some historical firearms from the NRA Museum Collection.[104] The museum also hosts firearms and artwork from the Remington Arms Company factory collection, including engraved Colt revolvers of the American frontier and firearms of U.S. Presidents.[105]

Professional Bull Riders

Bass Pro Shops has been a sponsor of the Professional Bull Riders (PBR) circuit for several years. In 2022, it became the primary sponsor of the Missouri Thunder; one of eight founding teams of the PBR Team Series, which debuted that year. Johnny Morris is the team owner.[106]

Accolades and awards

In 2018, the National Retail Federation ranked Bass Pro Shops as the No. 2 Hottest Retailer in America, and the following year in 2019 was named one of America's Most Reputable Companies by Forbes.[107][108]

In 2021, Newsweek ranked Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's as the top outdoor retailer in its list of America's Best Trending Online Shops, and in 2020, recognized the brands with Best-In-State Customer Service Awards across 16 states.[109]

In 2021, the Bass Pro Shops U.S. Open National Bass Fishing Amateur Team Championships awarded a $1 million first-place prize to the winning team, Tucker Smith and Logan Parks, two students from Auburn University.[110][111] The same year, Forbes named Bass Pro Shops one of America's Best Employers, with rankings among the top 10 in the country. They would go on to receive this same accolade in both 2022 and 2023.[112]

In 2023, Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s were recognized as the retail leader in the Camping & Outdoor Gear category by Newsweek, ranking first and second, respectively. It was the second year in a row for that same honor.[113]

In the 2025 Most Trusted Brands survey, Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's were ranked the most trusted U.S. retailers for hunting and fishing gear. They ranked second for both fishing lures and camping equipment.[1] Later this same year, they were awarded 4½ out of 5 stars in Newsweek's "America's Most Admired Workplaces" list for 2025.[114]

Lawsuits

In 2011, Bass Pro Shops was sued by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) for failure to hire Hispanic and black applicants.[115][116][117] In court filings, Bass Pro Shops denied all of the allegations and in 2014, Bass Pro Shops appealed the lower court's ruling,[118][119][120] but was rejected by the court.[121] In 2016, Bass Pro Shops tried again and the U.S. EEOC asked the Fifth Circuit Court to reject Bass Pro Shops' appeal because Bass Pro Shops engaged in the practice of "reckless indifference" when it came to hiring minorities.[122] In 2017, Bass Pro Shops settled its discrimination lawsuit with the U.S. EEOC for $10.5 million.[123][124][125][126] The court noted that any payments Bass Pro Shops made as part of the settlement "should not be construed as an admission of liability."[118] The case was settled by a consent decree, and the court issued no findings on the veracity of the claims of the EEOC that there had been discrimination.[118] As part of the settlement, Bass Pro Shops agreed to strengthen its diversity hiring and recruiting practices by posting job openings at schools with a significant minority population, participating in job fairs held in communities with large minority populations, posting job openings in publications that have been historically popular with Black and Hispanic audiences, and develop a diversity and inclusion section of its website that lists job opportunities and discusses inclusion efforts.[127][128]

In 2022, Bass Pro Shops was sued for not honoring a lifetime warranty on "RedHead Lifetime Guarantee All Purpose Wool Socks."[129][130][131]

In June 2025, a proposed class-action lawsuit was filed against Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's, accusing the companies of conspiring with manufacturers and distributors of archery equipment, as well as the Archery Trade Association, to engage in price fixing that harmed consumers through artificially inflated prices.[132]

See also

External links

References

  1. Great American Outdoors Group Forbes, October 2021, retrieved 14 October 2021^
  2. Imani Moise. Meet the Billionaire Behind the New Bass Pro/Cabela's Empire Wall Street Journal, October 3, 2016^
  3. Mike Masterson. Johnny Morris: Angler visionary Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, April 3, 2016^
  4. History of Bass Pro Shop The Southern Illinoisan, February 21, 2003, retrieved November 14, 2021^
  5. Wes Johnson. Bass Pro Founder Johnny Morris receives Excellence in Business Award Springfield News-Leader, March 24, 2016^
  6. Savannah Waszczuk. The Johnny Morris Story 417 Magazine, November 1, 2014^
  7. Great American Outdoors Group Forbes, retrieved 2024-01-10^
  8. Bass Pro Shops: Where money grows on trees Quartz, 2022-08-24, retrieved 2023-10-17^
  9. Erik Matuszewski. Big Cedar Sets New Standard For Golf Sustainability With All Five Courses Certified By Audubon International Forbes, 2021-09-17, retrieved 2023-12-14^
  10. Bass Pro plots expansion with 21 new stores www.newstribune.com, 2013-06-16, retrieved 2024-02-06^
  11. Kristi Arellano Post. Bass Pro Shops hooks crowds The Denver Post, 2006-10-21, retrieved 2024-02-23^
  12. Bass Pro Shops celebrates opening of first Arkansas location www.nwaonline.com, 2013-11-13, retrieved 2024-02-23^
  13. Jerica Phillips. INSIDE BASS PRO: Top attractions inside the Pyramid actionnews5.com, 2015-04-28, retrieved 2023-10-17^
  14. Jerica Phillips, Jerry Askin. INSIDE BASS PRO: Top attractions inside the Pyramid ActionNews5, 2015-04-28, retrieved 2024-01-10^
  15. Sara Germano, Kevin Helliker. Bass Pro Shops to Acquire Cabela's Wall Street Journal, October 4, 2016^
  16. Allex Sammuli. "World's largest wildlife attraction" opens in Springfield, Missouri St. Louis Magazine, September 19, 2017^
  17. Dana Dean. Largest fish and wildlife attraction in the world opens in Springfield, Missouri KSDK, September 21, 2017^
  18. DeSantis announces Bass Pro fishing resort coming to Valhalla Island WFLA, 2022-10-28, retrieved 2023-10-10^
  19. Wyatt D. Wheeler. Johnny Morris, Big Cedar Lodge give first look at stunning 'Cliffhangers' golf course Golfweek, retrieved 2025-07-24^
  20. Unraveling claims about Bass Pro Shops not paying federal taxes Snopes, September 9, 2025, retrieved 22 February 2026^
  21. National report criticizes Bass Pro subsidies Springfield Business Journal, July 12, 2010, retrieved 22 February 2026^
  22. Bass Pro Shops sells 11 Cabela's stores for $324.3 million Outdoornews, 2019-06-07^
  23. Glen Wunderlich. Bass Pro Shops Sells 11 Cabela's Stores for $324.3 Million - ThinkingAfield.org^
  24. Bass Pro Shops Sells 11 Cabela's Locations for $324M www.cpexecutive.com, May 31, 2019^
  25. The death of Sidney, Nebraska: How a hedge fund destroyed 'a good American town' Fox News, December 3, 2019, retrieved June 27, 2020^
  26. Yowell, Paige. Sidney faces challenge to replace 2,000 jobs, fill vacant homes after Bass Pro takeover of Cabela's Omaha World-Herald, January 16, 2018, retrieved June 27, 2020^
  27. Daniel Urie. Parent company of Bass Pro and Cabela's plans to acquire Sportsman's Warehouse The Patriot-News, December 30, 2020^
  28. Rabia Arif. Synovus, Capital One to buy banking operations of Cabela's S&P Global, retrieved June 27, 2020^
  29. Hallie Detrick. Bass Pro Just Completed a $4 Billion Deal to Buy Cabela's Fortune, retrieved June 27, 2020^
  30. Bass Pro Explores Going Small With Sportsman's Warehouse Buy sgbonline.com, retrieved 2023-09-23^
  31. Sportsman's Warehouse ends merger with Great Outdoors over FTC clearance concerns Reuters, 2021-12-03, retrieved 2023-09-23^
  32. Chris Carlson. Bluegreen, Bass Pro Shops purchase Branson Cedars Resort Branson Tri-Lakes News, 2023-05-05, retrieved 2023-12-01^
  33. Kathleen Turner. Hobie Sale To Bass Pro Shops Brings Boat Brand Builds Back To The US Forbes, retrieved 2025-09-30^
  34. Carla Field. Bass Pro Shops announces new Upstate store WYFF, 2014-04-17, retrieved 2020-01-08^
  35. Joe Sills. The Unbelievable True Story Of How The Memphis Pyramid Became A Bass Pro Shops Forbes, Aug 26, 2020^
  36. Marcus Schneck. Central Pennsylvania's super-aquariums: A new Nature's Navigator pennlive, 2009-11-22, retrieved 2024-01-10^
  37. Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World Visual Merchandising and Store Design, 2007-02-22, retrieved 2024-01-10^
  38. Bass Pro Shops Announces New Mega Outdoor World Destination Retail Store in Florida - Outdoor Retailer's The Daily thedaily.outdoorretailer.com, 2023-05-22, retrieved 2024-01-10^
  39. Boyce Upholt. How the Bass Pro Shops Pyramid Became a Memphis Icon Outside Online, 2022-08-10, retrieved 2024-01-10^
  40. Jake Van Ness. Bass Pro Shops Plans To Open Its Newest Store In Clifton Park, Its 4th In New York State Saratoga Business Journal, 2023-03-13, retrieved 2024-01-10^
  41. Natural Habitat Displays at Bass Pro Shops TreeScapes & PlantWorks, retrieved 2024-01-10^
  42. Marcus Schneck. Central Pennsylvania's super-aquariums: A new Nature's Navigator pennlive, 2009-11-22, retrieved 2024-03-15^
  43. Bass Pro Shops Outpost opens April 15 in Atlantic City, New Jersey OutDoors Unlimited Media and Magazine, 2015-03-25, retrieved 2024-03-15^
  44. Bass Pro Shops Sportsman's Center Visual Merchandising and Store Design, 2008-01-24, retrieved 2024-01-09^
  45. Bass Pro Shops Stick Marsh Outpost to open in Palm Bay, Florida SGB Media, November 22, 2013^
  46. Bass Pro Shops - White River Outpost Explore Branson, retrieved June 22, 2022^
  47. Johnny Morris Buys Hatteras Yachts boattest.com, May 21, 2021, retrieved 2021-05-21^
  48. Major boat builder acquires iconic Hatteras brand, set to expand in NC North State Journal, May 26, 2021^
  49. MSN www.msn.com, retrieved 2025-07-24^
  50. Erik Matuszewski. Big Cedar Lodge To Open Cliffhangers Par 3 Course On July 4th Forbes, retrieved 2025-07-24^
  51. Alex Eaton. Internet Invitational: How YouTube golf series generated social media interest and took sport to a different audience Sky Sports, November 14, 2025^
  52. Dawn Gilbertson. The Hotel Inside the Bass Pro Shops Inside the Pyramid The Wall Street Journal, 2022-11-30, retrieved 2023-12-06^
  53. Madison Bryan. Bass Pro, Big Cedar to rebrand Hollister hotel as Angler's Lodge Branson Tri-Lakes News, 2020-10-29, retrieved 2023-12-06^
  54. Bass Pro Shops CEO Building Largest Resort Property In The Florida Keys Southern Living, retrieved 2023-12-06^
  55. Amy Bertrand. Bass Pro Shops restaurant on Branson Landing offers great views, fish STLtoday.com, 2011-04-04, retrieved 2023-12-06^
  56. Hemingway's Blue Water Cafe www.springfieldmo.org, retrieved 2023-12-06^
  57. Mike Cullinan. The Farm is on deck at Finley Farms Springfield Business Journal, 2020-03-23, retrieved 2023-12-06^
  58. Ozark Mill and The Garrison offer food, drinks and a taste of history at Finley Farms in Ozark, Mo. Restaurant Hospitality, 2022-08-23, retrieved 2023-12-06^
  59. Lauren Debter. Outdoor Retailer Bass Pro Shops Is Buying Cabela's For $5.5 Billion Forbes^
  60. The National Audubon Society honors Bass Pro's Johnny Morris with prestigious award www.ky3.com, 2019-02-12, retrieved 2024-01-08^
  61. UM Board of Curators approves naming of "Johnny Morris Institute of Fisheries, Wetlands and Aquatic Systems" // Show Me Mizzou // University of Missouri showme.missouri.edu, 2024, retrieved 2024-01-08^
  62. Johnny Morris Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's Outdoor Fund Awards $300K Grant to The National Wild Turkey Federation HuntingLife.com, 2021-04-26, retrieved 2023-11-08^
  63. Sara Karnes. Rescued sea turtles get TLC at Bass Pro's Wonders of Wildlife Springfield News-Leader, retrieved 2024-02-05^
  64. Wonders of Wildlife Partners in Nationwide Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Effort www.aza.org, retrieved 2024-02-05^
  65. Martin Cizmar. A Missouri aquarium is saving cold-stunned sea turtles Kansas City Magazine, 2023-01-10, retrieved 2024-02-05^
  66. Best Aquarium (2023) - USA Today 10 Best Readers' Choice Awards 10Best, 2023-03-20, retrieved 2024-02-05^
  67. Best Aquarium (2024) - USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards 10Best, 2024-05-24, retrieved 2025-03-07^
  68. Wonders of Wildlife Ranked #1 in the Nation - AGAIN! - by USA Today Readers www.springfieldmo.org, 2020-07-17, retrieved 2025-03-07^
  69. Wonders of Wildlife named best aquarium in America for the sixth time KOLR - OzarksFirst.com, 2024-05-23, retrieved 2025-03-07^
  70. Joey Schneider. Wonders of Wildlife welcomes 20 more critically ill seat turtles for life-saving care www.msn.com, retrieved 2025-03-07^
  71. Wonders of Wildlife welcomes 20 more critically ill sea turtles for life-saving care FOX 2, 2024-12-28, retrieved 2025-03-07^
  72. Wonders of Wildlife named America's best aquarium for seventh time KOLR - OzarksFirst.com, 2025-05-27, retrieved 2025-06-20^
  73. Susan Szuch. USA TODAY readers name Wonders of Wildlife nation's best aquarium for 6th year in a row Springfield News-Leader, retrieved 2025-06-20^
  74. Big Cedar Golf Recognized by National Audubon Society My 100.1, retrieved 2023-12-14^
  75. Erik Matuszewski. Big Cedar Sets New Standard For Golf Sustainability With All Five Courses Certified By Audubon International Forbes, retrieved 2024-03-14^
  76. Expanded Thunder Ridge to open next month Springfield Business Journal, 2022-08-17, retrieved 2023-12-19^
  77. Garth Brooks To Open Thunder Ridge Nature Arena In The Ozarks KSJB AM 600, retrieved 2023-12-19^
  78. Garth Brooks to perform in Branson area FOX 2, 2022-08-17, retrieved 2023-12-19^
  79. Rolling Stones to swing through new Thunder Ridge Nature Arena in the Ozarks AP News, 2024-05-23, retrieved 2024-08-06^
  80. Rolling Stones to Swing Through New Thunder Ridge Nature Arena in the Ozarks U.S. News, May 23, 2024, retrieved August 6, 2024^
  81. Bass Pro Shops partners with Convoy of Hope to help Louisiana hurricane victims Springfield News-Leader, retrieved 2024-02-16^
  82. Wes Johnson. Bass Pro and angler groups raising millions of dollars for Bahamas hurricane relief Springfield News-Leader, retrieved 2024-02-16^
  83. Active military, veterans honored by Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster, 2014-11-24, retrieved 2023-10-31^
  84. ((phil0036)). Johnny Morris, Bass Pro Shops receive U.S. Army's Highest Civilian Honor, The National Service Award thevoiceofmobiz, 2022-11-10, retrieved 2023-10-31^
  85. Nicole K. Army & Air Force Exchange Service to Offer Bass Pro Shops Gear Tax-Free Military Living, 2024-09-11, retrieved 2025-02-21^
  86. Chevall Pryce. With roots in Cy-Fair, Helping a Hero raises funds for 100 homes Houston Chronicle, 2022-01-22, retrieved 2023-10-26^
  87. Helping A Hero veteran with a new home khou.com, March 7, 2023, retrieved 2023-10-26^
  88. Gregory J. Holman. 'Huge relief' — Bass Pro founder Johnny Morris donates $2 million toward houses for wounded veterans Springfield News-Leader, retrieved 2023-10-26^
  89. Chevall Pryce. With roots in Cy-Fair, Helping a Hero raises funds for 100 homes Houston Chronicle, 2022-01-22, retrieved 2024-01-03^
  90. Bass Pro Shops Hosts Elk Country Conservation Month - Wrangler Network, 2017-08-01, retrieved 2023-11-08^
  91. Conservationist and Bass Pro Shops founder Johnny Morris honored with inaugural conservation award Bassmaster, 2017-03-09, retrieved 2023-11-08^
  92. Pheasants Forever Upper Snake River Chapter receives $4,500 grant from Cabela's East Idaho News, 2020-02-09, retrieved 2023-11-08^
  93. Bass Pro Shops helps National Fish and Wildlife Foundation raise funds Bassmaster, 2017-04-02, retrieved 2023-11-08^
  94. Macaela Bennett. Bass Pro opening benefits 'more fish' Peoria Journal Star, retrieved 2023-11-08^
  95. Ducks Unlimited to race under the lights this weekend at Bristol Speedway Digest, August 15, 2019, retrieved 2023-11-08^
  96. October is Ducks Unlimited Month at Bass Pro Shops Shelby County Today, 2015-10-09, retrieved 2023-11-08^
  97. Angel Middleton. National Deer Association Awarded $200,000 Grant from the Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's Outdoor Fund to Improve Public Hunting Land Americana Outdoors, 2023-06-08, retrieved 2023-11-08^
  98. Bass Pro Shops names Whit Fosburgh and Jeff Crane conservation partners of the year - Bill Dance Outdoors billdanceoutdoors.com, retrieved 2023-11-08^
  99. Bass Pro Shops Continue Sponsorship at Richard Childress Racing - The Racing Insiders The Racing Insiders - YOUR INSIDERS SOURCE FOR EVERYTHING NASCAR!, 2021-02-05, retrieved 2024-01-30^
  100. Jay Adamczyk. 2025 NASCAR Cup Series Team/ Driver Chart Jayski, retrieved 2025-01-15^
  101. Bass Pro Shops Continue Sponsorship at Richard Childress Racing - The Racing Insiders The Racing Insiders - YOUR INSIDERS SOURCE FOR EVERYTHING NASCAR!, 2021-02-05, retrieved 2024-03-19^
  102. Joy Tomlinson. Bass Pro Shops Sponsoring Tony Stewart in SRX Frontstretch, 2023-06-22, retrieved 2024-03-19^
  103. No. 96 Bass Pro Shops Toyota: Ty Dillon Bristol Dirt Advance - Speedway Digest - Home for NASCAR News 2021-03-24, retrieved 2024-03-19^
  104. Bass Pro Shops celebrates opening of first Arkansas location nwaonline.com, 2013-11-13, retrieved 2024-03-15^
  105. NRA opens Midwest museum showing nearly 1,000 firearms Reuters, retrieved August 3, 2013^
  106. Bass Pro Shops sponsors Missouri Thunder Bass Pro Shops, retrieved May 26, 2024^
  107. Vicky Valet. America's Most Reputable Companies Forbes, April 3, 2019, retrieved August 27, 2025^
  108. Gregory J. Holman. National Retail Federation: Bass Pro Shops is USA'S second-fastest-growing retail company Springfield News-Leader, retrieved 2025-08-28^
  109. Newsweek names Bass Pro Shops America's Best Outdoor Retailer Bassmaster, 2022-06-02, retrieved 2025-09-30^
  110. Phil Pierce. Auburn students win $1 million Bass Pro Shops U.S. Open National Bass Fishing Amateur Team Championships Alabama News Center, 2021-11-27, retrieved 2023-11-08^
  111. Dac Collins. Two College Kids Win Inaugural U.S. Open Amateur Bass Tournament, Walk Away with $1 Million Outdoor Life, 2021-11-23, retrieved 2023-11-08^
  112. Bass Pro Communications. Forbes names Bass Pro Shops one of America's Best Employers Julesburg Advocate, 2021-02-20, retrieved 2025-06-02^
  113. Dave Maas. Newsweek Names Bass Pro Shops as America's Best Outdoor Retailer and Other Industry News Archery Business, August 4, 2023^
  114. America's Most Admired Workplaces 2025 Newsweek, 2024-09-11, retrieved 2025-05-25^
  115. Jim Forsyth. Bass Pro Shops accused of discrimination, racial slurs Reuters, 2011-09-22, retrieved 2020-06-24^
  116. Ann Zimmerman. U.S. Charges Bass Pro Shops With Racial Bias The Wall Street Journal, 2011-09-22, retrieved 2020-06-24^
  117. Bass Pro Failed to Hire Blacks and Hispanics at its Stores Nationwide, EEOC Says in Suit www.eeoc.gov, retrieved 2020-06-24^
  118. U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission vs. Bass Pro Outdoor World, LLC and Tracker Marine Retail, LLC United States District Court for the Southern District of Texas, July 25, 2017^
  119. Scott Flaherty. Bass Pro Pushes For Quick Appeal In EEOC Race Bias Suit Law360, 2014-11-03, retrieved 2020-06-24^
  120. Thomas Gounley. Four years after US alleged discriminatory hiring at Bass Pro, case plods on, closely watched Springfield News-Leader, retrieved 2020-06-24^
  121. Cameron Langford. Bass Pro Shops Hiring Bias Case to Continue Courthouse News Service, 2014-07-31, retrieved 2020-06-24^
  122. EEOC v. Bass Pro Outdoor World, LLC, No. 15-20078 (5th Cir. 2016) Justia Law, retrieved 2020-06-24^
  123. L. M. Sixel. Bass Pro, EEOC reach $10.5 million settlement Houston Chronicle, 2017-07-24, retrieved 2020-06-24^
  124. Bass Pro Shops settles $10.5M race discrimination case HR Dive, retrieved 2020-06-24^
  125. Bass Pro Settles with EEOC for $10.5 Million on Racial Discrimination and Retaliation Claims retrieved 2020-06-24^
  126. Dan McCue. Bass Pro Shops to Pay $10.5 Million to Settle EEOC Lawsuit Courthouse News Service, 2017-07-26, retrieved 2020-06-24^
  127. Lisa Nagele-Piazza. Bass Pro to Pay $10.5 Million to Settle Hiring Discrimination Claims SHRM, 2017-08-10, retrieved 2020-06-24^
  128. Bass Pro to Pay $10.5 Million To Settle EEOC Hiring Discrimination And Retaliation Suit www.eeoc.gov, retrieved 2020-06-24^
  129. Jenna Greene. Bass Pro class action over socks (yes, socks): A 'lifetime' of lessons Reuters, 2022-07-25, retrieved 2023-09-23^
  130. Colin Kalmbacher. Lawsuit Says Bass Pro Shops Issued 'Hollow Promise' for In-Store Sock Brand with 'Lifetime Guarantee' That No Longer Exists Law & Crime, 2022-07-18, retrieved 2023-09-23^
  131. Julie Steinberg. Bass Pro Lifetime Wool Sock Warranty Suit Survives Dismissal Bid Bloomberg Law, January 4, 2023, retrieved 2023-09-23^
  132. Mike Scarcella. Retailer Bass Pro, Cabela's hit with price-fixing class action Reuters, 2025-06-02, retrieved 2025-06-09^