Getting ready for the summer fun!

With the temperature rising and the sun shining bright that time is getting ready to fall right on top of our laps again! And why let it surprise us when we are all getting ready for what comes with it! Summer is the season that we all truly love down here in our neck of the woods and we know we like to gear up on all the best gear to go along with it! Well we here at Bass Pro Shops are getting ready right there with you, stocking up on our assortment of warm weather gear, toys, and clothing.

Our camping department is gearing up with all of the best survival gear and tools you could hope for. Even with some pretty cool bells and whistles like camp stoves that can charge your smart phones and tablets while you’re out of the camp. We are also starting to see some great deals coming out in our ads for our Ascend kayaks and even a few new makes and models that we are carrying this year. This time of year is also when many of you like to grab a hold of a new hydration bag or backpack for hitting the trail and keeping your load comfortable.

Marine is also getting a great boom on all of our water sport accessories such as towables and inflatables. We are seeing a good deal of new pool toys coming in this time of year too. In the next few ads, you will see such items as wakeboards and skis going on sale for great prices. And just as usual will be keeping well stocked on all or your boating needs and accessories to help you while you’re out on the water.

Fishing will also have some great deals going on this time of year.  Replenish tackle you have already used or come on in to pick up those last few items you have been meaning to grab. Just keep your eyes peeled to see the great assorted crank baits, worms, rods, and reels we will be putting out there for you, as well as, everything thing else between.

Also with the weather getting hotter and more humid our apparel departments will be getting in more and more collections of warm weather clothes assorted with shorts, skirts, swimwear, and plenty of fishing shirts to keep you cool. We are seeing great new patterns and frills across the ladies apparel department to keep you looking quite fashionable while also keeping you in great comfort. As far as the men’s side, the fishing gear keeps coming in by the truckload to keep you ready and looking good out on the water or around the town. It will be hard for you to miss all of the great Saltlife and Guy Harvey options we have out on the floor to help you show off what you love.

As we are moving on in to the hot weather just keep your eyes out for the sales we are setting up for you. Our Go Outdoors ad starts on May 16^th and it would have to be nearly impossible for you to not find any of the things you’re looking for in there. Its one of the biggest and best ads geared to the summer fun we all love and love to enjoy! So keep your eyes open and come on in to see the great seasonal gear we have making its way to the floor for all of you from all of us at your Bass Pro Shops.

Samantha Stevenson

Front End Manager

Denham Springs

YETI

     Yeti coolers are the toughest of their kind. After some research we found out some interesting facts about how they are produced. Yeti coolers are one of the best insulated coolers on the market. Each cooler is made with at lest 2” of polyurethane foam insulation in the walls and the lid as well. A freezer quality sealing gasket locks in the cold for maximum ice retention.

A yeti cooler is made from the same tough material as a white-water kayak and its one piece roto-molded construction and design, delivering impressive durability. Yeti’s coolers also meet IGBC standards which means it has been tested by the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee. Each cooler has been tested in controlled simulations and with wild grizzly bears!         

            Bass Pro Shops offers a wide variety of Yeti Coolers ranging from 20 quarts all the way up to 250 quarts. Our store also offers accessories and replacement parts. Stop on by to our store if you’re looking to buy one of the coolest coolers around.

Whitney Triplett

Chelsea Smith

Front End

Sleeping Bag Search

Hey Guys, Jettie here.  This month I decided to check out sleeping bags because the grandkids were talking about going camping and I didn’t want to end up sleeping on the ground (Been there, done that, too old now).   Here are some of the things that you need to consider when you are looking at sleeping bags.

• Goose down gives the most loft (and insulating power) for its weight, compresses the most for backpacking and keeps its loft longest. It's also softer and adapts to temperature changes. Its drawbacks include price, the fact that it also loses insulating power when wet and that some people are allergic to down.
   
• Give the zipper a good workout. Nothing is worse, in the middle of the night, than struggling to unsnag a zipper in the dark. The best sleeping bags have stiffeners in the zipper draft tubes to minimize this problem.
   
• A full-length two-way zipper is best for a three-season bag. This means that you can unzip just part of the bag -- at the foot or legs, for example -- to ventilate areas that might get too warm otherwise.
   
• Choose a bag shape that fits your sleeping style. If you sleep on your back, a trapezoidal foot box allows your feet to stick up naturally. If you sleep on your side or move around a lot in your sleep, a stretch bag will be more comfortable, and one that secures to the sleeping pad will keep the sleeping bag securely on the pad. If you feel utterly claustrophobic in a mummy bag, even one that stretches, then try a modified mummy bag. You may even decide that the extra weight of a rectangular bag is worth carrying.
   
• Look for fit that's close without being tight. For maximum warmth, a sleeping bag should drape comfortably close to all parts of your body, with no big air gaps to waste your body heat. On the other hand, if a sleeping bag is too tight somewhere, you won't be comfortable in it. Most sleeping bag specifications include the girth at the shoulders, hips and feet, but experts say it's best to try different sleeping bags in person if at all possible. Women's sleeping bags are narrower in the shoulders than men's sleeping bags. They are also wider in the hips and usually have extra insulation at the feet and chest.
   
• The hood should fit comfortably. If you use a pillow, make sure there's room for it. Some bags have drawstrings that are too long and get in your face; others have Velcro that can catch in your hair and make noise that bothers tent mates. Be sure you can keep snug and warm without feeling claustrophobic.
   
• A watch pocket is handy. This little pocket for an LED light or watch is becoming a standard feature on the best sleeping bags. Both professional and user reviews say it seems indispensable once you've had one.
   
• A wearable bag adds versatility. This means that the foot area can be unzipped so you can walk around while wearing the bag. On a cold morning or evening, you can wear the bag sitting up, or to heat water for tea.
   
• Check the bag's loft. Press the bag down and see if it springs back up quickly. If not, you will probably have loft problems later.
   
• Gently pull the inside of the bag away from the outer covering. If you hear small tearing sounds, you can be sure the baffles are not going to hold up for long, and you'll end up with a bag that has all its insulation clumped into one place.
   
• A sleeping bag liner or special sleeping clothes keep a bag cleaner longer. This is more important for down sleeping bags than for bags with synthetic filling that can be washed in a front-loading washer. Down bags should be kept as clean as possible inside, because cleaning them is tricky -- best done professionally. Changing into a separate set of clean clothes, or using a silk or other lightweight sleeping bag liner, will delay the need for this.
   

Reviews can help in estimating the lowest temperature rating at which a sleeping bag will feel warm, but they're only a rough guide. Experts say that attempts to standardize ratings across brands have failed, so they're most useful in comparing sleeping bags from the same company. Some people "sleep cold" and shiver in sleeping bags which other people find quite warm. Women usually sleep colder than men, so many reviews suggest that women pick a sleeping bag rated about 10 degrees colder than the lowest temperature they think they'll encounter. Some sleeping bags are designed specifically for women, narrower in the shoulder area but roomy around the hips, with extra insulation especially at the feet.

Come on by and see us at the Bass Pro Shops and our associates in the Camping Department will help you get evertything you need for your camping trip.

Jettie Whittington

HR Clerk

Denham Springs

Uncle Buck’s Fish Fry

I have been frying fish for over twenty years.  Four years ago I discovered Uncle Buck’s Fish Fry.  It is a product that I never want to be without.  No mater what your personal taste, there is a Uncle Buck’s Fish Fry product for you.  It is a delicious, ready to use mix that comes in a variety of flavors – original, mild, hot & spicy, light & krispy and beer batter.  Whether your big catch is perch, crappie, catfish or shrimp, it’s easy and so delicious.  You can also use it to make homemade onion rings. 

Some people just coat their fish in meal and seasonings and fry them.  There is nothing wrong with this.  With Uncle Buck’s, you create a batter following the instructions on the container.  There are three different ways you can cook your fish – bake, deep fry and pan fry.  Either way, they are going to come out golden brown and delicious.   It’s perfect.  So bring on your next camping, fishing or outdoor adventure.  The container for Uncle Buck’s Fish Fry is waterproof and reseal able.  It is located inside The General Store.

Melissa Carter

Fudge Lead

Denham Springs

 What's In A Line?

            Hey everyone this is Brian, I am a Fishing Team Lead from the Denham Springs store.  I just wanted to take a few minutes to talk about the different types of fishing lines out there, no not brands of line but the types.  You know Monofilament, Braided (super) line, Fluorocarbon and Copolymers.  All 4 lines have there advantages and disadvantages, you will have to weigh them for yourself to determine which line is best for you and your specific fishing applications.

Monofilament

Monofilament is a single component product making it fairly inexpensive to make, no doubt at least in part the reason it remains the most popular line out there.  But as with all line it has its advantages and disadvantages. Beyond being relatively inexpensive, it is easy to cast, cut and knots well. On the downside, it tends to stretch during hook sets, particularly when there is a lot of line out there. This is a real downside if one happens to be seeking fish with a tough jaw. It is also not particularly sensitive to light hits, as you simply may not feel a light touch. Over time it can develop spool memory and will deteriorate from light and heat necessitating regular replacement.  I have seen too many big fish lost simply because the angler didn’t take the time to replace their line on a regular basis. Also, it is not as abrasion resistant as some of the other lines out there. So one must constantly be on the look out for small abrasions and retie accordingly. Lastly, and this particularly applies to heavyweight line, it is bulky and when attempting to spool a lot of heavy test line it won’t take long to fill the spool.

Superline (braid)

There are actually two types of superlines: braided and fused. Fused is made of gel-spun polyethylene that is heated and pulled into strands that are then fused together. Whereas the braided version is typically made of synthetic fibers such as Spectra that are then tightly woven and compressed together into an ultra thin, incredibility strong and sensitive line.  They can be used  when fishing heavy cover, jigging, or fishing bait in deep water. The lack of stretch in these instances makes for solid hook sets even in very deep water or on steel-jawed fish. Its sensitivity also transmits the minutest strikes for quicker hook sets and when working heavy cover or in high abrasion areas, it is all but indestructible. Lures also sink faster and deeper with superlines. Additionally, because of its small diameter, you can load a lot of line on your spool. It has minimal spool memory and does not require replacement nearly as frequently as most will last several years. Pound-test for pound-test you can also cast it further than monofilament making it useful in situations where long casts are a must.

But on the down side, it is expensive and you may need to alter fishing techniques. For example, it will require different knots as many of your old knots may slip, so when in doubt use a Palomar knot. You may even consider adding a drop of super glue to the knot to make sure that it won’t slip. It is also very visible to fish, which is some cases may not present a problem but in others may just spell the difference between success and failure. Additionally, with this no stretch line, too hard a hook set and you may pull the hook right out of a fish’s mouth. When snagged, it is all too easy to break a rod tip by putting too much pressure on these all but unbreakable lines. And when trolling, don’t set your drag too tight as it may pull the lure or bait away from a fish. A rod with a light action tip will also assist in avoiding this problem. And last, when snagged don’t use your hands, as the line can very easily cut your hands. Point your rod tip directly at the snag and pull directly to you. Either the line will break or the hook will straighten out.

Fluorocarbon

Fluorocarbon fishing line originated in Japan where it was first used as leader material when bait presentation was critical in high-pressure areas. It has since gained popularity on this continent and in many instances, is the line of choice. Fluorocarbon line has a refractive index close to that of water, making it all but invisible when submerged in water. Unquestionably, it is an excellent choice for fishing in clear water or high-pressure areas. It is particularly useful as leader material when fly fishing in ultra clear mountain streams and rivers. While not on par with the superlines, it still offers minimal line stretch, a quick sink rate and is tougher than monofilament. It has minimal spool memory and is quite abrasion resistant. The later making it a good choice for high abrasion areas such as rocks or submerged logs. It is also more UV resistant so it can be stored and used for longer periods than monofilament. It is quite sensitive and with its limited line stretch it makes for quicker and more solid hook sets without the potential loss of a fish due either to too much or too little stretch. It may well be the ideal fit for line stretch between monofilament and the superlines. 

But it too has it drawbacks, as with the superlines it will require more attention to detail. Knots, for example, will require more attention and always check your knots before using. It is also stiffer than monofilament and as such I would avoid using heavier weight fluorocarbon lines on light gear particularly if you are using lightweight lures. And last, it is certainly more expensive.

Copolymer

Copolymer fishing line is another feat of engineering as it originally combined several nylon monomers into a thinner more stable line. New formulas, which include, for example, the addition of fluorocarbon, have been developed to enhance this line even further. P-line Floroclear is a good example of this. Copolymer lines are more impervious to the elements and offer a bit less line stretch than monofilament. It is also less visible and tends to outlast monofilament as well.  But once again, it can be a bit more expensive and may be viewed by some as being a bit tricky to handle. If you encounter a problem with stiffness, I would suggest that you consider dropping down a couple of weight classes.

As a final comment, there is no one perfect line for all uses, so take a look at what you are fishing for, the depth you are fishing at, the type of terrain you are fishing in, the type of tackle being used, the condition of the water, the fishing pressure, and then look at matching your line to these factors and you are sure to not only improve your catch rate but your enjoyment as well.  Please visit your nearest Bass Pro Shops for all your outdoor needs.

Brian Gordon

Fishing Lead

Denham Springs

Cooking With Cast Iron

Did you know “Lodge” is the only cast iron cookware foundry in the good ole U. S. of A.  They offer a wide variety of cast iron cookware.  From a 6.5” skillet, to a whopping 15” skillet.  They also make grill pans, wedge pans (great for making cornbread), fajita sets, Dutch ovens & even Hibachis.  Lodge also offers a selection of Porcelain enamel cast iron cookware.

We cooked a peach cobbler in one of the Dutch ovens the other day and it was outstanding.  We have also made homemade biscuits over a wood fire before (probably the best I’ve ever eaten).  The more you use a cast iron pot the more non stick it becomes.  Don’t forget to read the instructions when you buy a cast iron pot because it is important that you “season” your pot after every use.  We live in Louisiana where jambalaya is a staple dish.  There is no substitute for cast iron when you make jambalaya.  Just a hint – Don’t let anone open the lid after your jambalaya gets cooking!

Looking for a great gift or a great piece of cookwear?  “Lodge” cast iron cookware is second to none on the market.  Even heat distribution along with over a lifetime of service this heavy duty cookware will fit all of your cooking needs.

We thoroughly love our cast iron cookware and so will you.  Happy Cooking!!

Darren Burns

Camping Lead

Denham Springs

‘Yak Attack!

            Kayak fishing has been climbing to the top of water sports over the last few years. Every year more and more fisherman turn to kayaks to get into those tight nooks and crannies ordinary boats cannot reach. Whether you chose a sit-in or sit-on-top, outfitting your kayak is not much different than outfitting any other boat. The main obstacle is the storage limitations, however there’s plenty of gear to turn your vessel into a fishing machine.

            Rod holders are critical to kayak fishing, since you need both hands to paddle. Most people install two rod holders behind the cockpit to keep them out of the way when traveling; flush mount holders work well for this as they do not clutter the kayak. Another popular method, and the one I use personally, is mounting a rod holder system, such as the Bass Pro Shops 3-position rod rack to a milk crate or office box. Most sit-on-top kayaks will fit a crate perfectly; you can use bungee cords to help keep the accessory secure when paddling. The best part of this approach is the added storage space the crate gives you. It can help hold tackle boxes and trays, fishing tools, etc. and is within reaching distance for when you get in that sticky situation and need tools fast. Storage is a common topic among kayak anglers, and there is no shortage of options. Use of dry bags and bungee cords will keep your gear dry while remaining accessible. Packing gear into bow and stern hatches also works. Hard plastic, water tight containers will help with the more fragile gear. Another option is the use of deck bags. They have plenty of storage pockets and are easy to store on the kayak. Soft coolers are also great for storing your favorite snacks.

            An anchor system is another great fishing accessory. Use it when fishing to stay put when fishing on a windy day. Sea anchors, also known as drift socks, are especially useful in windy conditions and rough water. It is well worth it to install a kayak anchor trolley kit as they let you fine tune the best position with ease. Some newer kayaks, such as the Ascend FS128T, come with this already installed and ready to use.

            Another necessity when kayak fishing is a kayak specific flotation vest. Kayak-specific designs allow for plenty of upper body movement so that you’re not constricted when paddling or casting. You will want a vest with a mesh back or a thin back to give your more space and comfort. When shopping for the right one keep color in mind. Black may look good but on those hot days you will regret not having a color, like red or yellow, that don’t absorb as much heat. They are also much more visible on the water than a dark color. Safety is, of course, the most important part of fishing or boating. At a minimum you will want to carry the following: a whistle, signal mirror, bilge pump, bail or sponge, throw rope and a flashlight with working batteries. A small first aid kit should also be on the vessel at all times.

            Consider picking up a few of these items when you’re rigging your kayak. They’ll help keep you organized on the water, which should help you catch a few more fish this season!

Chelsea Smith

Front End Lead

Denham Springs

Colorful Cushe Comfort

This winter the weather has been really crazy.  One day it is hot the next day it is cold.  One day it is raining and the next day the sun it shining.  And then the next ten days it is raining.  Here it is the middle of April and we are still having mornings were the temperature is in the lower forties.  I don’t know about you guys, but my footwear has been very utilitarian – boots, tennis shoes, socks.  Sometimes I even wish I had a pair of mucklucks.  I sure am glad that summer is just around the corner.  I went and got a pedicure and I am getting ready for all the fancy new summer footwear.

This summer is going to be a very exciting time at Bass Pro Shops.  The ladies footwear is sooo colorful and there are really fun styles.  We are carrying the Cushe Shoes for men and women.  The Cushe® Hellyer Slip-On Shoes for Ladies come in 3 different fun colors – Moroccan Multi, Black Metallic and Sand Multi.  The Cushe® Surf Loafer Delux Slip-On Shoe for Men comes in 2 very “manly” colors – Brown and Grey.  They are all reasonably priced at $49.99.

Of Course, we have our wide selection of Sanuks for men and women.  Including Sanuk flip flops.  Ladies have a wide selection of sandals and canvas shoes – all very fashionable for the girl on the go.

Kathy Buras

Footwear Lead

Denham Springs

Uncle Buck’s Beef Jerky

                When hunger hits and you need a snack that will last, look no further than beef jerky.  High in protein and low in fat, jerky is a great way to eat on the run.  Uncle Buck’s Beef Jerky is some of the best jerky on the market.  These thick cuts of hickory smoked deliciousness are great for hiking, camping, or hunting trips. The resealable zip pack makes it extra convenient to throw in a backpack or duffel bag.

                Bass Pro is proud to offer a great variety of Uncle Buck’s jerky. It is sold in either a five ounce or an eight ounce bag.  Some of the great flavors we offer include Buffalo, Teriyaki, BBQ Beef, and Bacon.  The Bacon jerky was introduced in 2012 and has become a big hit with our customers.  Our newest sensation is Sweet Maple Glazed Bacon Jerky, which is the best of both worlds. Its salty and sweet flavor hits your taste buds in all the right ways!

                Beef Jerky is lean meat that has been trimmed of fat, cut into strips and then dried to keep from spoiling.  This drying process usually includes the addition of salt to stop bacteria from developing on the meat before enough moisture has been removed.  All that one needs to make basic jerky is a low-temperature drying method and salt to prevent bacteria growth. Manufactured jerky is usually marinated in a seasoned spice rub or liquid before the dehydration process begins.  It is then dried, dehydrated or smoked with low heat, usually under 70 degrees Celsius. The word “jerky” comes from the Spanish word “charqui” which is from the Quechua word “ch’arki”, which means to burn.

                Uncle Buck’s Beef Jerky makes a great take-a-long snack for the outdoors lover! It is 96% fat free and is a fantastic source of protein which is important for keeping hunger away on those long hiking trips or hunting outings.  Pick up a bag or two next time you stop by and stock up the boat, RV, and deer stand!

Lainie Falgout

Gifts Lead

Denham Springs

That Takes The Bait

Hey all you guys and gals out there in Blogland.  Let me tell you a little bit about myself and why I am writing this blog.  I retired from the corporate world several years ago and got my dream job here at Bass Pro Shops (eat your heart out Bill Gates).  Since I work here, even though I do not work out on the floor, I though it would be a good idea for me to know a little bit about each of the different departments.  As I got to know more, I realized how much I didn’t know.  Not just about what we sell in the store, but about what you have to know to use what we sell in the store.

Take fishing baits for example.  Do you know how many different kinds of fishing baits there are?  Not to mention all of the different colors.  Did you know you use one kind of bait to catch one kind of fish and another to catch a different kind or you can be trying to catch the same kind of fish but you use a different kind of bait because it is morning or evening?  Or maybe a different color?  So I started out asking my husband what he thought about baits (after 40 some years of marriage that’s what a good wife is supposed to do, right?).  Next I asked his fishing buddies, then I did what I should have done in the first place, I went to the experts in our fishing department.  After hearing what all they had to say, I got to thinking – There might be other people out there just like me who might be in need a basic understanding of fishing baits.  So here goes (and remember, this is not comprehensive just basic and I am no expert).

Baits are divided into six different types – Crank baits, Top water Plugs, Spinner baits, buzz baits, jigs and plastics. 

Crank baits - Diving crank baits are characterized by a bill or lip. Deep running crank baits are used to probe depths of water below the surface.  Minnow type shallow runners are used as top water lures and are twitched across the surface.   The diving depth is determined by the length and width of the bill.  When the bait is pulled through the water, the lip causes it to dive.   When the retrieve is paused the bait will float to the surface. The action of the bait depends on the style of bait, length of cast, the rate of retrieve, pausing and twitching action, and the position of the rod tip. Using a stop and go retrieve around points, channels, stumps, and brush will often trigger a strike.

Shallow, medium and deep running crank baits come in different weights, sizes and color patterns. They can cover a large amount of water in a short time.  The swimming crank bait is similar to the lipped crank bait, except that it sinks when it is paused.  It is very versatile and can be fished at various depths.  They are effective around drop offs, humps, through timber and along edges of grass lines

Top water Plugs - Catching a large fish on a top water lure is one of the most exciting moments an angler can experience.  These top water baits, are often referred to as chuggers, poppers, stick baits and prop baits.  The chugger and poppers have a wide concaved snout that churns the water when they are twitched and popped. Some are equipped with rattles inside them.

Prop baits are equipped with either one or two propellers.  The whirling action of the propellers causes a distinct vibration and sound when it is pulled across the surface.  The stick bait is designed to walk and wobble across the surface.

Spinner baits - Probably the most versatile bait in an anglers tackle box is the spinner bait.  One of its best features is that it is easy to use and is relatively weedless.  The blades spin and flash during the retrieve and the action of the skirt adds life and shape to the bait.  The depth can be controlled by the rate of retrieve, and the position of the rod tip.  It is most often used to fish the top 2 to 4 feet of water although it can be used to fish deeper structure.     Using the 'slow roll'  method the lure is retrieved with the blades slowly turning, keeping the lure close to the bottom or over other substrate.   

When water is warm and fish are active a good method to use is the bulging retrieve.  As soon as the lure hits the water, immediately engage the reel and use a rapid retrieve to keep the lure coming just under the surface of the water.  The turning of the blades produces a bulge in the water.   Hold on to your rod as strikes can be especially fierce with this method.     

Spinner baits are equipped with single blades or tandem blades of different styles and combinations. Anglers can choose the oblong Indiana blade, the thin willowleaf blade or the wider tear shaped Colorado blades. Trailers of all sizes and makes can be added to a spinner bait.  Spinner baits come in many sizes, weights and colors. Color of the spinner bait is important in that it helps to determine the degree of visibility of the lure.

Buzz baits - The design of a buzz bait is very similar to a spinner bait. The blade on a buzz bait acts as a propeller that causes the bait to sputter along the surface.   The distinctive noise of the buzz bait will usually agitate bass into striking. Cast it beyond your target area and immediately begin your retrieve to keep the lure on the surface.  A slow or sometimes erratic retrieve will trigger some vicious top water strikes. 

Jigs - A jig is a leadheaded hook with a changeable skirt. A trailer is sometimes added to the jig, the most popular being the pork rind.  This combination is referred to as the jig n' pig.

Jigs can be effective when most lures just won't produce.  They are virtually snagless, and can be put directly in the fish zone.  They are especially effective on suspended fish that are hiding in deep cover. 

One way to fish the jig is to let it sink to the bottom and then begin a slow and steady retrieve. Other ways are to hop the lure along the bottom; use the rod tip to jig it vertically; flip it; or fish it like a spinner bait.  Most anglers have their own preferred method of fishing a jig. 

These lures come in many styles, colors, weights, etc.  Small tube jigs are effective for catching small sunfish, and crappie.

Plastics - Soft plastics can be rigged with weight or used weightless. Weightless plastics can be used as surface lures or jerk baits. They are commonly used when fishing thick vegetation.  They are also very effective during the spawning season using a float-twitch retrieve over grassbeds.  Plastics with a very light weight can be used when fishing shallow structure.  Heavily weighted plastics are fished along the bottom. There are so many different types of plastics and so many different ways to rig them. There are plastics that imitate frogs; lizards; salamanders; leeches; worms; grubs; centipedes; fish; craw worms etc. that come in all sizes and colors. 

Jettie Whittington

HR Clerk

Denham Springs

We All Love Our Mothers

As the seasons continue to roll, those specials times of year begin to creep back up on us again. With the weather getting warmer we are closer to the very precious day to honor and cherish the important women in your life, Mother’s Day, a sweet time to spoil and pamper the ones that take such good care of you. And what better way to give that care right back to them then to feed their outdoorsy side with a few great gifts from the outdoors paradise, Bass Pro Shops carries a great selection of odds and ends for all sons and daughters out there. If she is the type that loves to sit in the boat with you on the water reading a nice long book, enjoying the sun or trying to wrangle in a bigger catch than you can grapple, we can provide her with any kind of fishing necessities and desires.  We also have an array of great women’s clothing for the warmer weather to keep her feeling cool and fashionable. If she is the type that loves to make things grow and blossom we have many choices of garden decorations from wind chimes to bird feeders to give the backyard a little pop or keep the hummingbirds coming back for more. We can surely provide you with perfect ideas from home décor inside and out.  Guaranteed to fit all aspects of personal flair to keep her smiling the whole year through and truly show her that you’re thinking of her. It would be nearly impossible to not find that one great thing to brighten her day. So swing on by and see for yourself.

Have a wonderful Mother’s Day from all of us here at your

Louisiana’s Sportsman’s Paradise

            Bass Pro Shops

The Well Dressed Hunter

I really enjoy a well made set of hunting clothes that are multifunctional. For most hunting seasons in the south, I prefer the Tec-Lite series made by RedHead. It comes in a button-up shirt that’s vented with roll-up sleeves or a pant. Both are 100% micro polyester moisture-wicking fabric with AXE’s permanently embedded silver nanoparticles for continuous odor control that won’t wash out. It’s warm most of the year in these parts, and there isn’t much of anything on the market that will keep you more comfortable than this.

As I told you, I like the fact that it keeps me warm or cool, depending on the weather, but let me tell you why my husband likes it.  He likes the little things you don’t always notice, like the extra large zip pockets that can hold his turkey call or such things for easy access.  My husband is a big man and he likes the long rounded tails that prevent his shirt from contstantly coming untucked.

The shirt comes in three different patterns, Mossy Oak - Break Up Infinity, Mossy Oak Obsession and Realtree Xtra Green.  This allows you to wear the shirt in all types of weather and all types of terrain.  So not only can you wear it down hear in Louisiana, but you can take it with you when you take that trip you've been planning to Colorado and it will fit in just great.

Apparel Department

Denham Springs BPS

Spring Fryers

The weather is beautiful, spring is here and what better time to get out into the great outdoors.  And that is just what my family and I did last week.  My sisters and their kids all have campers (not me) so we decided to meet up at one of the local state parks and make it a family weekend of fishing and camping.  My youngest sister has this really great camper that has a space in the back for all of their camping and tailgating toys.  It’s called a Toy Hauler.  Well, what made it so great for our family weekend was she brought her smoker and her fish fryer along all tucked up nice and neat in her little toy camper.  Saturday my mom and I spent all day on the bank fishing while the guys were out on the boats.  My sisters don’t care much for fishing so they spent most of the day hiking and biking with the kids.  That evening, we all met up together where the campers and been put together to form a big square.  We had a big campfire, played guitars and sang songs just like we did when we were kids.  Then it was down to business.  All those fish we caught during the day had to be filleted and fried.  That fryer my sister brought along really came in handy.  Turns out, she got it from Bass Pro Shops.  I checked and found out Bass Pro Shops offers a great deal on our Aluminum propane fryer combo.  It comes with everything you need to get cookin.  With items such as a 10.5 quart aluminum pot, light weight strainer basket with a cool touch handle and rear clip for easier draining, 18” tripod stand with 3 stable legs, 58,00 BTU cast iron burner, CSA-Approved regulator and hose (propane tank not included) and 5” deep fry thermometer.  This item is very powerful, easy to use, move around and is affordable.  Regularly priced at $49.99, but it is currently on sale for $39.99 until March 31^st.  So come on down and check out our great deals.  You can also check it out on line at http://www.basspro.com/Bass-Pro-Shops-Propane-Cooker-with-Aluminum-Pot/product/10205245/

Camping Department

Denham Springs BPS

“Stewie the Duck Learns to Swim”

            Soon the weather will be turning warmer, and most folks’ thoughts will turn to staying cool. Water parks and swimming pools will be filled with the sounds of laughter and splashing waves. Safety is a very important part of the fun! Young children must be exposed to the do’s and don’ts of swim safety.

            “Stewie the Duck Learns to Swim” is a child’s first guide to water safety.  It was written by Kim and Stew Leonard, Jr. in 2002.  It is the story of little Stewie who wanted nothing more than to swim with the big ducks in the pool. His family and friends knew that he isn’t ready to just dive in and start swimming. Stewie has to learn the rules of water safety, and with the help of his mom, dad and a little song, he does just that.  He becomes aware of how important it is to stay safe in and around the water.

            Stewie was created in loving memory of the authors’ 21-month-old son Stew Leonard III, who while on vacation in the Caribbean, ventured unnoticed into the swimming pool. He was eventually found and pulled from the pool but unfortunately did not survive even after CPR was performed. 

            Drowning is the most common cause of death in children under the age of 5 and over half of drowning accidents among children under the age of 4 occur in friends’ or neighbors’ swimming pools.  In 1990, Kim and Stew Leonard founded the “Stew Leonard III Water Safety Foundation” to help promote water safety awareness.  The Foundation has raised over a million dollars to help local groups such as the YMCA to go towards swimming lessons and safety equipment. 

            “Stewie the Duck Learns to Swim” is quite informative but helps to make water safety fun and enjoyable for young kids.  It makes wearing life vests “cool” and the songs in the book and accompanying CD provides great entertainment.  The book and CD sells for $9.95 here at Bass Pro Shops. 

Lainie Falgout

Gifts Lead

Denham Springs

Hopping Down the River

Since the 1700’s the Easter bunny has been a big part of Easter in America. The tradition was started with German immigrants who settled in Pennsylvania. Children would make nests so the bunny could lay its colored eggs. Eventually the tradition spread across the U.S. and also included deliveries of chocolate, other candies and gifts, with decorated baskets replacing the original nests. Sometimes children would leave carrots for the bunny in case he got tired from all the hopping. Did you know the largest Easter egg was 25 feet high and weighed over 8,000 pounds? The egg was built out of chocolate and marshmallow and had to be supported by an internal steel frame, that’s a lot of sweets!

            Starting Saturday March 23, in celebration of Easter, our store will be hosting an egg hunt with crafts and free photos.  Our Easter Egg Hunt will begin at 1pm with registration beginning at 12:30 on Saturday 3/23 and Sunday 3/24 and Saturday 3/30 and Sunday 3/31 as well. After the hunt, stop by the craft table to make a bunny magnet on the 23^rd and the 24^th until 4pm or a bunny frame or scratch art egg on the 29^th from 6-8 and the 30^th and 31^st from 1-4. Finish off the day with a free photo with the Easter bunny on Saturdays and Sundays from 1-4 and Monday through Friday 6-8pm. Join Bass Pro Shops this year and start a new family tradition with us.

Whitney Triplett

Chelsea Smith

Front End Leads

Denham Springs

Bayou Bling

           The girls and I were sitting around the kitchen table listening to the latest Lady Antebellum CD and talking about the upcoming Bayou Country Superfest last week.  Of course we all have tickets so the next topic of conversation was what to wear.  I just happened to mention the great selection of boot we have here at Bass Pro and that really got their attention. 

            One of our newest styles is the Rhinestone Cowgirl by Ariat.  Life's a rodeo, and these are made to enjoy the ride. An array of rhinestones and studs add some sparkle to the premium leather uppers. Subtle touches such as inlays, wingtip design, a 2.5" leather-wrapped heel, and D toe design give these Cowgirls some uptown style.

            We have several other styles for men and women in stock.  The new womens styles including Rawhide, Quickdraw, Heritage, Western Toe & The Tracey Pull On.  New styles men’s styles include Quick draw & Rambler Phoenix.  We have styles to fit anyone’s taste!  Prices range from $99.99 to $219.99.  Come out to Bass Pro Shops of Denham Springs and get fitted for your New Ariat boots!

Jac Cosper

Footwear

Denham Springs

Red Ryder

Two years ago, during the Christmas season, my son asked me if he could have a BB gun.  He was only four, at the time, so I was very skeptical.  I asked some of the hunting associates, at Bass Pro, “What were some of the pros and cons of having a BB gun, especially for a child so young “?  I remember two hunting associates, in particular, Terry Robinson and Rex Jeter telling me the same thing.  They told me that his age was just right and the Red Ryder BB Gun was perfect for him to start with.  Well guess what, two years later, and my son still loves his Red Ryder BB Gun and at least three weekends out of the month, he is in our backyard shooting cans, birds and his all time favorite “ invisible alligators “! 

Thanks,

Aisha Kimiko Moore

Receiving Clerk

Bass Pro Shops

Denham Springs, La OW-28

No Guts No Gator

 Swamp People stars of the popular television series have created a unique line of sauces.  Now you can have that one of a kind Cajun flavor at your table for all your game.

Dip your chips or even your gator in No Guts No Gator Salsa.  This fiery salsa is made with habanero peppers.  It has a bite like a gator! Whether you are grilling chicken, gator or even nutria, spice it up with Mudda Fricka Horseradish BBQ sauce.  It is a blend of horseradish and a tangy barbecue sauce. Spice your grilling up a notch if you dare! Tree Breaka Steak Sauce complements the finest beef, steak, tuna or even your gator.  So bring on the sauce!

Be sure to check out all of our Swamp People merchandise. From DVDs to T-shirts,  we have the ultimate fans covered.

Melissa Carter

Fudge Lead

Denham Springs

Bass Pro Shops Denham Springs will be hosting a Free BassMaster University on Sunday, March 3^rd.  

Tom Rowland, Co-Host of “Saltwater Experience®” TV Show will be discussing the topic “ Tips For Using Braided Line” at 1 pm.

Gene Ellison, B.A.S.S.® Opens & PAA Pro Trail Competitor, will talk about - Searching & Finding Winning Fish – at 2 pm

Joey Nania, B.A.S.S.® Open, 2-Time Junior Bassmaster World Champion & PAA Touring Professional & Guide will discuss “Locating & Selecting Baits For Springtime Bass” at 3 pm.

Fun Fishing Class

Attention All Parents of Kids Age 6 – 12 Years of Age.  Bass Pro Shops Denham Springs is having a Free Kids Fun Fishing Class for all kids between the ages of 6 and 12.  Parents must sign their children up for this class no later than February 28^th at our Customer Service Desk.  The class is a basic fishing class and kids will be shown tips for “thinking like a fish”.  If weather permits, the children will be able to practice casting outside.  Come join in all the fun of fishing.

Again, you must sign your child up for this class no later than February 28^th by coming to the store or calling our Customer Service Department at 225-271-3100.

Laura Gordon

Events Coordinator

Denham Springs