Bass Pro Shops will open its first store in San Diego County in La Mesa in 2028, the outdoor retailer announced Wednesday. The massive 148,000-square-foot "adventure store" will be located at the Grossmont Center.
Johnny Morris, founder of Bass Pro Shops, expressed excitement about serving the region's outdoor enthusiasts. "With access to both saltwater and freshwater fishing, this area offers something truly special, and we look forward to helping families and friends enjoy it together," Morris stated in the announcement. The store is expected to feature a custom design inspired by the region's outdoor heritage and will cater to those interested in fishing, hiking, camping, and hunting.
The new Bass Pro Shops location is projected to create over 150 jobs in La Mesa. Mayor Mark Arapostathis highlighted the store's potential positive impact, stating, "This announcement is another exciting milestone in the ongoing transformation of Grossmont Center. Bass Pro Shops will bring new jobs, attract visitors from throughout the region, and further strengthen our local economy."
This will be the sixth Bass Pro Shops to open in California since the company established its first state location in 2007. Founded in 1972 by Morris selling tackle from his father's store in Springfield, Missouri, Bass Pro Shops has grown to nearly 200 locations across North America. The company was recently recognized as "America's Most Trusted Outdoor Retailer" for the fifth consecutive year.
The arrival of Bass Pro Shops at Grossmont Center comes amid several store closures at the shopping complex. Reading Cinemas announced its closure last month, and Macy's also closed its doors earlier this year, citing poor sales.