Bass Pro plans new store in Kentucky

Bass Pro Shops announced today that it plans a 70,000-square-foot retail store in Paducah, Kentucky. The location is expected to open by early 2027, company officials said in a news release, and the store will employ 115 workers.

Bass Pro said the new location is to be sited adjacent to the Kentucky Oaks Mall, along Interstate 24 just north of its intersection with U.S. 60. Bass Pro’s investment in developing the Paducah retail outlet is undisclosed.

Company officials said the Paducah facility will serve customers across the Four Rivers region. Centered on Paducah, the Four Rivers area includes the confluence of the Ohio, Tennessee, Cumberland and Mississippi rivers, according to the Paducah Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Bass Pro officials said in the release that the Paducah location is the fourth in Kentucky since it began retail operations in the state back in 2013.

“We are proud and excited to be able to serve the great outdoor enthusiasts in the Paducah region and the entire Bluegrass State,” said Johnny Morris, Bass Pro CEO, majority owner and founder, in the release. “We have a great deal of passion for this entire region and all the outdoor recreation options it offers and are looking forward to helping families and friends get outside and make happy memories together in the great outdoors.”

Paducah Mayor George Bray reportedly told Kentucky media yesterday that city commissioners were very excited about the news, as the Bass Pro location is expected to reshape Paducah retail over the long term.

“Bass Pro Shops will not only provide services and products that are in high demand for our area, but also a unique shopping experience,” Bray said today in the release. “I have no doubt our community and surrounding neighbors in the region will be very excited to support Bass Pro Shops in Paducah.”

Bass Pro said in the release that its Paducah store will feature a custom design envisioned as a tribute to Kentucky culture and sporting heritage, combining retail with entertainment, outdoor education and conservation.

“This development would not have been possible without the city [of Paducah’s] commitment to maintaining the viability of Kentucky Oaks Mall and the surrounding Hinkleville Rd. commercial corridor, and we are proud Bass Pro Shops will be the catalyst for this new chapter of growth,” said Anthony Cafaro, Jr., co-president of Cafaro, the company overseeing Kentucky Oaks Mall, in the release.