148,000-square-foot outdoor retailer expected to open in 2028, bringing jobs, fishing gear, and a new destination for Southern California anglers.
Southern California anglers and outdoor enthusiasts will soon have a new destination for fishing tackle, boating accessories and outdoor gear as Bass Pro Shops has announced plans to open a new retail location in La Mesa.
The 148,000-square-foot store will be located at Grossmont Center near the intersection of Interstate 8 and State Route 125. Construction is expected to begin following the approval process, with the store anticipated to open in 2028.
The La Mesa location will become Bass Pro Shops’ sixth California store and is expected to serve customers throughout San Diego County and the surrounding region.
“It’s exciting to serve the great anglers and outdoor enthusiasts throughout the San Diego region,” said Bass Pro Shops founder Johnny Morris. “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.”
For Southern California boaters and anglers, the addition of Bass Pro Shops will provide another major resource for fishing tackle, marine accessories, apparel and outdoor equipment. The San Diego region offers easy access to offshore fishing, local lakes, bays and beaches, making it one of California’s most diverse recreational fishing destinations.
According to the company, the new store will feature a design inspired by Southern California’s outdoor heritage and include the immersive displays and natural themes that have become hallmarks of Bass Pro Shops locations across North America.
Rather than functioning solely as a retail store, Bass Pro Shops says each location is designed to combine shopping with outdoor education, conservation messaging and family-friendly experiences.
The project also represents another milestone in the ongoing redevelopment of Grossmont Center.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Bass Pro Shops to La Mesa and excited that they have chosen Grossmont Center as the home for their newest location,” said La Mesa Mayor Mark Arapostathis. “Bass Pro Shops will bring new jobs, attract visitors from throughout the region, and further strengthen our local economy.”
Bass Pro Shops currently operates 182 locations throughout North America. Founded by Morris in 1972 in Springfield, Missouri, the company has grown from a small fishing tackle business into one of the continent’s largest outdoor retailers.
Conservation remains a central part of the company’s mission. Bass Pro Shops says it has donated more than 10 percent of its earnings over the past decade to conservation initiatives across North America. Customers are also invited to support habitat restoration, wildlife conservation and outdoor education through the Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s Outdoor Fund.
The company also offers its Legendary Salute Program, which provides a 10% discount to veterans, active-duty military personnel, law enforcement officers, firefighters and state fish and wildlife agency employees.
When the La Mesa store opens, Bass Pro Shops expects to employ more than 150 Outfitters. Employment opportunities will be posted as they become available through the company’s careers website.
For San Diego-area anglers, the new store is expected to become another hub for fishing gear, boating equipment and outdoor recreation while bringing one of the country’s largest outdoor retailers closer to Southern California’s boating and fishing community.
