Saturday, December 26, 2009

Bass Pro Shop

Recently I had a chance to visit a new store in the Des Moines area. It is called Bass Pro Shops.



I have never been in a store like this. It took outdoor and cabin motif to a brand new level! I laughed when I saw this sign as I walked in the main door. It reminded me of a little sign that used to be in my grandmother's kitchen.



As you step through the doors, this is what you see.



And as you look up, you see this.



I do not shoot animals, except with a camera. But I was quite amazed at the quality of the taxidermy work throughout this massive store. This mountain lion looks much more realistic in person than he does in this photo.



A herd of buffalo was being chased by a pack of wolves.



I could almost hear the sound of the buffalo running as I looked up at this display.



This 1950 pickup truck looks small inside this huge store.



My father had a truck that was the same color as this truck and about the same vintage.



This female cougar seemed to be looking at me. I didn't look her in the eyes -- that's a big no no with a wild animal!



I don't like raccoons very much, but this little fellow sure looked realistic.



These black bears were having fun on this tree.



Another mountain lion. This one seemed oblivious to all the people.



This store has a huge aquarium of fresh water fish, more stuffed animals than you could imagine and, of yes, lots and lots of things you can .... buy!

Thanks for stopping by.

6 comments:

Small City Scenes said...

What do you think of storea like that? We have several out this way. I don't mind fishing (actually I like to play in the river rather than fish) but, like you, I only shoot with a camera. I feel bad all those animals had to die so someone could look at them. MB

Marge said...

Aren't thoe stores fascinating? I didn't know there were so many fish themed items; or bear themed; or cabin themed. They are kind of fun, but only for so long. After awhile I sort of get overwhelmed and it's time to go to the real outside and get some fresh air. For free!

I'll wave as we pass through your area on Monday on our way to Texas. Happy New Year, Russell!

Marge said...

That word would be THOSE. I'm on the computer that doesn't like to type ssssssss.

Hilary said...

Wow.. with a decor like that, I'll bet their prices are steep...

Beautiful critters.. though I hate to see them as trophies.

Maureen said...

Interesting, none of them here in NYC, except at the Natural History Museum.

Pat@Back Porch Musings said...

Bass Pro World HQ is in Springfield Missouri. We always stop there when we are in that area of the state. There is an excellent restaurant; Hemingway's Blue Water Cafe, with an amazing brunch and other fine meals.

We aren't hunters, but J does fish. We enjoy visiting the store, just for fun.

I bought pine cone flatware, when we were in the Branson store, during November. Perfect for our Christmas breakfast table.

There are several stores in Missouri. One just about 30 minutes from us, but the Springfield store remains our favorite. There is a Wonders of Wildlife Museum there, that has been under renovation for quite some time. The company also has Big Cedar Lodge, south of Branson, MO. We usually stay there at least once every year. We've stayed in the lodge a time or two, but prefer the cabins.

Your photos are wonderful!