Bass Pro Shops Sevierville/Kodak, TN

Tracker Marine has just announced a terrific promotion on the TAHOE Q 8ssi for the 2010, 2011 and the new 2012 model years. There is an instant rebate of $3,000.00 in total savings for the TAHOE Q 8ssi making it the very best buy of its class in the boating industry. Be sure to take advantage of these savings while they are still available. This promotion runs from April 17th, 2012 thru August 31st, 2012. You can check out the TAHOE Q 8ssi at www.TAHOEBOATS.com and compare it to the rest of the TAHOE boat line up from the Q 4 to the deck boats and our fish and ski versions too! Stop by and check them out in person, or if you would like further information you can give me a call at 865-932-5580 or email me at rbbarton@basspro.com . I would be happy to assist you and your family in getting on the water this year! I am your TAHOE boats specialist, and Sales Lead Rob Barton, and look forward to hearing from you!

Here at Bass Pro Shop, we offer a great variety of technical apparel. Our World Wide Sportsman brand has many different options to meet a fisherman or woman’s needs.

 New for 2012 is our Solar Dry Performance Tee. It offers Coolmax Extreme Performance quick dry fabric, UPF 50+, and Moisture Management Wicking. This tee shirt is available in short sleeve, and long sleeve. Also new this year is our Bermuda Breeze Long Sleeve shirt. It offers many benefits such as Quick Dry Performance, Moisture Management, UPF 45, Vented Cape Back, and Antimicrobial finish that resists odor causing bacteria. You can also roll up the sleeve and button to secure, making it into a short sleeve shirt. These are only a couple of the technical shirt options. There are several others offering unique features and benefits.
    

  Once you have chosen a shirt option, a good bottom to choose is always our Hybrid Angler Pant. It features Quick Dry Performance, zip off legs to convert to shorts, UPF 50+, and multi 6 pocket design. By far this is one of our best sellers here at Sevierville Bass Pro Shop. If shorts are more what you are looking for, a good one to try is our Santee River Short. It features Quick Dry Nylon, cell phone pocket, 2 side   cargo  pockets, security back pocket w/zipper, and comfort waistband.
      So when you are ready to pick up your technical wardrobe, come visit  us here in our Apparel department at our Sevierville Bass Pro Shop.

Some of my fondest and best memories of younger years include fishing, camping, cookouts and just being outside with my family. Summer is the time for making those lasting memories with your family.

We are getting ready for summer here at Bass Pro Shops in Sevierville. The Go Outdoors Event is just that-giving you the best price for the gear you really need for all your summertime fun.

Outdoor Essential Seminars for Adults

Friday, May 18

6 pm        Hiking Basics

                 Learn about the best equipment to use for a successful hike

7 pm        Campfire Cooking

                 Discover a new way to prepare tasty, over-the-fire menus

8 pm        Kayak and Canoes

                 Receive tips on selecting the best kayak or canoe for float trips

Saturday, May 19

1 pm        Life Jackets

    Learn about proper life jacket fit and how to choose the best one for your needs

2 pm        Inflatable Life Jackets

                 See how they work

3 pm        Camping Essentials

                  Learn about the best equipment for beginners

4 pm        GPS Tips and Techniques

                 Bring your GPS for hands-on advice

5 pm        Backpacking

                  Discover the latest features and benefits of backpacking equipment

Sunday, May 20

1 pm        Dutch Oven Cooking

                 Learn the tips and techniques of this delicious cooking method

2 pm        Inflatable Life Jackets

                 See how they work

3 pm        Tent Set-Up

                  Learn about tent set-up and the importance of choosing the proper tent

4 pm        Smoker Tips and Techniques

                 Learn the tips and techniques of smoker selection, food preparation and cooking.

   May 26-27   Memorial Day Weekend

          FREE Summer Kickoff Event

FREE Photo Download    

11 am-4 pm

      Get a Camping Trip/Scene Photo Taken

FREE Crafts            

12-4 pm

      Saturday, May 26  Create a sand art sun

      Sunday, May 27    Paint a wooden insect

FREE Summer Kickoff Challenge

11 am- 4 pm

      Sleeping Bag Race

      Tent Set-up

      Metal Detector Treasure Hunt

Summer Kickoff Photo Contest

Kids, bring in your best wildlife photo for a chance to win!

1st Place   BPS 10x26 mm Compact Binoculars and a $25 BPS Gift Card

2nd Place   $20 BPS Gift Card

• Winners announced on June 3 at 5 pm- need not be present to win
• Open to kids 13 yrs and under
• Submit photos to Customer Service beginning May 26 thru 5 pm on May 27

Tracker Marine has a terrific promotion that started this April 16th, 2012 and runs thru June 17th, 2012 on the TRACKER PRO GUIDE V-16 SC and the TRACKER PRO GUIDE V-175 SC models only. It is a double the bang for your buck promotion. Offering an instant point of purchase $600.00 rebate off both models and a FREE Boat Cover valued to $555 for a total savings of up to $1,155! The FREE boat cover will be shipped to the boat dealer after purchase within 7-10 days. Fishing season is in full swing and it is a great time to take advantage of these terrific savings. Check out these two models at www.TRACKERBOATS.com or stop by our showroom while they last to see them in person. I am your TRACKER BOAT specialist, Rob Barton and you can email me with any questions at rbbarton@basspro.com or give me a call at 865-932-5580. I would be glad to answer any questions you might have about these boats, offers or anything about TRACKER BOATS, NITRO BOATS, SUN TRACKER BOATS or TAHOE BOATS. I look forward to getting you out on the water with the family this boating season! Rob Barton-TRACKER SALES LEAD

May 4  6-8 pm
May 5-6   1-4 pm

Whether you are a first time gun owner or an experienced marksman- we have the event for YOU!! Get ready to "Set Your Sights" with Bass Pro Shops, May 4-6.

Our Hunting Department wants to assist you with any questions you have on reloading, proper care of firearms, or maybe even choosing the right firearm for you. We are setting aside a whole weekend to bring you the best in seminars, reloading demos, giveaways and even double rewards points on selected items.

Need-To-Know Seminars

Friday, May 4  
6 pm  Guns and Accessories for you Modern Sporting Rifle Project
7 pm  Conceal-Carry - Laws, Permits and Equipment
8 pm  Reloading Basics

Saturday and Sunday, May 5-6

1 pm  Guns and Accessories for you Modern Sporting Rifle Project
2 pm  Conceal-Carry - Laws, Permits and Equipment
3 pm  Reloading Basics
4 pm  What is CCW?
  
 

Bassmaster Elite Pro Series is coming to Douglas Lake this week, May 3-6. Don’t miss your opportunity to visit with some of the best. Bass Pro Shops and Tracker Marine will have some of our very own Nitro Pro Staff in the building on Thursday, May 3, 7:30-8:30 pm.
Meet the Top Pros on the Bassmaster Elite Tour: Kevin VanDam, Edwin Evers, Ott DeFoe, and Brian Snowden.

One autographed item per person as time allows.

Appearances are subject to change.

  When one first goes handgun shopping it can be very overwhelming.  Who knew there were so many shapes, sizes, and even colors to choose from?  The first basic question you need to ask yourself is do I want a pistol or do I want a revolver?  What is the difference you ask?  Well, a pistol is semi-automatic and is fired based on loading rounds into a magazine.  You pull back what is called a slide to load the first round from the magazine into the chamber and then theoretically you fire until the magazine is empty.  I say theoretically because there can be different factors that causes your gun to jam while firing.  If this were to happen to you, you would then manually have to clear the jam and then load another bullet into the chamber by pulling the slide before you can fire again.  This is not always a scenario you want to have to deal with if you are firing your weapon under duress. 

  Revolvers on the other hand have been around for a very long time.  The earliest ones were invented in 1597.  Granted these were not the revolvers we know today, but it just gives you an idea of how long these guns have been made and how long gun makers have had to perfect them.  Colt invented a single action revolver in 1836 and these are similar to the revolvers we see today and some revolvers made today are still single action.  However the most popular and modern revolver of today is the double action revolver.  A single action revolver requires the gun to have an external hammer and the hammer must be cocked to fire the gun.  With the invention of the double action revolver in 1851 came the ability to fire a revolver just by pulling the trigger.  This was indeed a significant event in the history of revolvers.  The double action revolver changed everything.

  Revolvers are built much the same way today that they were made in 1836.  They are based on a rotating cylinder system.  You load your ammunition directly into the cylinder and in cases of a single action you cock the hammer then pull the trigger to fire, or in cases of a double action you simply pull the trigger and fire.  While granted the rounds of ammunition you can fire in a revolver (5-6 shots) are significantly less than a pistol (10-12 shot average), the simplicity of the revolver makes it a much more dependable gun.  The instances of ammunition jams in revolvers are significantly lower than ammunition jams in pistols.  When and if there is a jam in a revolver all you have to do to clear it is pull the trigger and the cylinder rotates and fires the next round.  I explained how to clear a pistol ammunition jam earlier. 

  My questions to you as a handgun buyer will always be the same.  How much experience do you have with handguns?  Do you already own any handguns?  If so, what are they?  What are your purposes for purchasing a handgun?  The answers to these questions are all we really need to know to point you in the right direction of helping you decide what handgun is right for you.  If you are new, inexperienced, and for most women, your first handgun purchase should always be a revolver.  They are simplistic, dependable and by far the best choice for the beginning handgun user.  I am not knocking owning a good pistol as well, but if you are only going to have one gun to depend on a good dependable revolver is your best choice.

  Come see me Cindy Gose and the rest of the hunting staff at Bass Pro Shops in Sevierville, TN.  We will be happy to show you what we have to offer.  If you have something specific in mind that is not in our case, just ask.  We will be happy to see if it is something we can order for you.  A typical special order only takes 7-10 days to receive and it is much better to wait a week than go home with something you are not sure you want.  Remember all firearm sales are final.  We are just now starting to receive in a new assortment of holsters.  While you are in gun shopping take a look.  We are going to carry leather concealment holsters, ankle holsters, belly bands, and several other new items that our customers have been asking for.  Stop by the gun counter and ask us some questions.  We are always happy to help and we want you to leave happy and be a customer for life!

As any seasoned angler will tell you, the most important link between the fisherman and the fish is the line. The moment of a lifetime can easily be ruined by the most minute of nicks or frays. Fishing line can be an absolute nightmare to successfully spool and utilize on any given day and I, unfortunately, have numerous times witnessed line warp itself into asymmetrical arrays and knots that do not even seem physically possible.

The fishing lines of today present a new problem to anglers that strikes even before the line touches their hands! That common issue is the choice of not only which brand to purchase, but which type of line is most suitable as well. The vast majority of anglers are familiar with the first line that I will discuss, but many people are still learning about the others that follow. This is just a brief overview of the various types of lines and this thought process can definitely become more detailed depending on an angler's mindset and needs.

Monofilament

This is the standard nylon fishing line that has been around for decades. This line is very affordable and causes the least issues to a beginning angler. This line is suitable for the majority of applications, but is not always the best line for someone desiring a technique specific line. These lines are very basic, but are offered in varying styles that accomodate different features that an angler may be looking for such as strength, knot strength, abrasion resistance, and castability. These lines are best for jerkbaits, topwater, and crankbaits, but can most certainly be used for any technique or species.

Visibility:        Mostly invisible/Green is great for grass/algae areas and Clear/Blue for night fishing

Buoyancy:     Almost Floating

Strength:       Good/Varies with Type/Brand

Abrasion:      Good/Varies with Type/Brand

Memory:        Low to Mid/Varies with Type/Brand

Stretch:         Varies by Type/Brand, but most have notably more stretch than other lines

Cost:              Low

Fluorocarbon

This type of fishing line is becoming increasingly popular due to the low visibility of the line. Fluorocarbon refracts light in a nearly identical way as water which creates an almost invisible line. This line possesses minimal stretch which makes it more sensitive than mono and also allows for bettter hooksets. Fluoro can be a bit difficult to handle to begin with as some of the lines exhibit a stiffness and memory issue that is not generally found in monofilaments. The line is being used more often for crankbaits due to the sinking factor, but is also great for jigs, shakey heads, and soft plastics because of the abrasion resistance, sensitivity, and low stretch.

Visibility:         Almost Invisible

Buoyancy:      Sinking

Strength:        Good/Take extra care during knot tying however

Abrasion:       Great

Memory:         Mid to High/Varies by Brand/Often times worse in colder weather

Stretch:          Low

Cost:               Mid to High 

Braid

This type of line is surging in popularity this year due to the Alabama Rig craze. This line has superior strength and has been popular for many years in areas with heavy grass cover such as Florida. The line has very small diameter allowing for the use of much stronger pound test ratings on standard spools. Most brands have excellent abrasion resistance with an ability to cut through most grasses. Braid has basically zero memory and zero stretch which allows for extreme sensitivity and eye crossing hooksets. The main downsides to braid are visibility and cost. The practice of using monofilament backing underneath the braid on a spool is popular to assist in decreasing backlashes and line slippage during drag pulls. Fluorocarbon leaders are also quite common due to the high visibility of braid. This line is great for soft plastics, jigs, alabama rigs, and single hooked topwaters such as frogs.

Visibility:          Very Visible

Buoyancy:       Floating

Strength:         Excellent

Abrasion:        Excellent

Memory:          None

Stretch:           None

Cost:                High

Other

There are other lines available that are either very new to the market or have much controversy to the true nature surrounding them. Copolymers are an excellent line choice for many and are generally categorized closely to monofilament and fluorocarbon with similar traits and price points. Berkley also has a new line that hit the market this year that is dubbed a Uni-filament line and goes by the name of NanoFil. This line is specialized for spinning gear and is very similar to braid in most characteristics. The line floats, has no stretch, small diameter, and casts very well.

In closing, I encourage every angler to get acquainted with every line type to find which is most suitable for them and their needs. Please be open to speaking with an associate at Bass Pro Shops about each line and their characteristics. Most of us have used various types and brands and will always be glad to share our experiences, both memorable and forgettable.

Tight Lines,

Gary G. Garver

Fishing Team Lead

Kodak, TN Bass Pro Shops

Hello and welcome back to our Bass Pro fly fishing blog! It is a bit cloudy and cooler today, definitely not the norm considering the weather we have had this year already. The weather for the next ten days has been predicted to be more or less the same of late, high 70's and lows in the 50's. Fly fishing all over east Tennessee has been great so far this year. Everything has been happening earlier this year than usual. Fishing in the national park is going to be affected more by weather than the fishing on the tail waters. If you fish the park earlier in the day I would start out using some basic nymphs ( pheasant tails, princes, etc). I would recommend fishing them as dropper under a dry fly. For dry flies I would suggest something such as a parachute adams, elk hair caddis in yellow, olive or tan and maybe a yellow stimulator. Pay close attention to your approach and drift, always make that first cast count! As the sun gets higher and warms the water, you should see more action from the fish.

Reports of good fishing have been coming in from the Holston as well as the Clinch. I have not personally fished the Clinch yet this year, but I have tested the waters on the Holston and the caddis hatches have been excellent already. If you are thinking about making a trip to the Holston, have a good selection of caddisses in both the high and low riding varieties. Nymphing with copper john's, pheasant tails, and midges should get your line stretched. Be sure to check TVA's web page for the generation schedules before heading to the river. Recent schedules have been very conducive to fishing. Conditions should remain the same while TVA is bringing up water levels in our local lakes. Good luck and tight lines everyone!

Also, don't forget to join us on Tuesday nights at 7:00 PM at the Kodak, TN Bass Pro Shops for our fly tying class! This is a very low pressure setting and a place to simply talk with others and learn more about fly tying or fishing whether you are a beginner or a seasoned angler!

-Seth French   4/18/2012

Lately, all you see on TV is shows about people prepping for a major disaster, whether it's a catastrophic earthquake, tornado, hurricane or even an EMP (electromagnetic pulse). I recently realized that I'm a prepper too although not on as big a scale as others. I prep for a loss of income. While I don't have any gas masks in my little stockpile, I do have food and other items that my family would need in case of a major set back in our income.

What I want to talk about today though, is prepping on a larger scale and just what you will need if Mother Nature should wreak havoc on us or if an EMP should happen. I am going to list for you items you should really consider adding to your supplies (if you haven't already) and I'm going to tell you EXACTLY where you can get each item. This list won't contain everything you'll need, but it will get you started.

Ready?

First aid kit, freeze dried food, water containers, fire starting source, emergency blankets, pepper spray, water purifying system and tablets, portable toilet, batteries, lanterns (flashlights), battery or crank radio and a bug out bag. This list could literally go on and on, but I think I'll stop there. Now, I said before I would tell you EXACTLY where you can these items and more. You can get this stuff at....you guessed it....Sevierville Bass Pro Shops.

Every day we get calls and in store customers asking about survival kits. While we don't sell ready made survival kits, we do have most all the components you are going to need to make your own personalized kit. Everyone's needs and desires are different so why buy one already made up and have to adjust YOU to fit IT when you can make your own to fit you. We have several brands to choose your items from. Brands like Camelbak, Reliance, Adventure Medical, Coleman, Coghlan, Mountain House, Katadyn and as always Bass Pro Shops. We also have backpacks suitable for bug out bags but if you prefer a duffel bag...we have those too!

What are you waiting for? I'm here and ready to talk to you about what you want and/or need to make your preparations complete. Come on by and see me, Deedee, in the Camping department and I'll get you set up and on your way to a ready and waiting survival kit.

Happy Prepping,
Deedee
Camping Team Lead
Sevierville Bass Pro Shops

We are having our own version of The Outdoor’s Challenge. Join us on April 21 -22 from 12-4 pm for the Kids’ Challenge Weekend. Your little ones can test their skills at our outdoor Archery Range, Fish Casting Buckets, Sleeping Bag Challenge, Life Jacket Race and Knot tying Challenge.

After they brush up on their skills be sure to stick around for Crafts from 1-4 pm. Your kids will love the braided snake craft and/or the arrowhead craft we have prepared. When they get done with all the activities and challenges they will get a spin at our prize wheel for a prize.  

So come on out for another great FREE Family Event at Bass Pro Shops in Sevierville and make some lasting memories.

Looking for a rifle or shotgun, come out to your Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World in Sevierville, from April 1, 2012 thru April 30, 2012 and check out our selection of Winchester and Browning shotguns and rifles. Right now we have a special going on just for you…when you purchase a new Winchester or Browning shotgun or rifle for your gun rack we put the sales tax up to 8% back in your pocket but an even better bonus when purchasing at Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World the redemption is instant- we take 8% off at the register.  (See associate for full listing of eligible models) You can use that savings to get your favorite ammo, practice target, or even that new pair of hunting boots you've had your eye on.  So if you are looking for the perfect new gun for Spring Turkey Season come visit us at Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World and let one of our extremely knowledgeable hunting associates get you set up with the perfect gun and hunting gear at unbelievable savings!!!

Welcome to the Fly Shop Blog for the Kodak, TN Bass Pro Shops! 

The following is a quick fishing report for the next week or so in the Kodak area. Water temps are going to be in the low 50’s and will increase over the next week. The weather is going to be warm with highs in the 70’s. Fishing in the national park is good and getting better. Start with nymphs early (pheasant tails, princes and stone flies) and switch to dry flies (parachute adams, march brown, olive/black cadisses) as the water warms. Trout are taking both dries and nymphs, but the fish activity will be its highest in the afternoon. Always be prepared with a variety of offerings in when entering the park! 

Also, the Clinch and Holston tail waters should be picking up. A good selection of midges along with some BWO’s and black cadisses should do the trick. The generation schedule will dictate when and where you can fish. Generation schedules can be checked at TVA’s web page.

We are going be holding fly tying classes on Tuesdays at 7pm. The class will be approximately one hour and we will focus on one or two particular fly patterns. There is no fee for the classes and no materials required! Just a friendly environment to learn the basics of fly tying, talk with fellow fisherman and tyers, and have fun! Call us at 865-932-5600 for more information!.

Seth French

Bass Pro Shops Fly Fishing Associate

Kodak, TN

The Extreme line of reels and rods is considered by many to be the flagship series of fishing equipment at Bass Pro Shops. Their inevitable appeal is generated by the sleek appearance, midrange price, smooth feel, and overall value for the customer and anyone that has opened their 2012 Master Fishing Catalog or strolled into their local Bass Pro Shops has likely noticed that the spinning and baitcast models of the reel, as well as the rods, have received complete makeovers for this fishing season!

The 2012 Extreme Baitcast reel is offered in right hand with three varying retrieve speeds and in left hand with two varying retrieve speeds. The reel sports seven total ball bearings and a strong 12 pound Aramid fiber/stainless steel drag system for setting the hook on and fighting even the most voracious and hard charging of fish. The reel is also upgraded with a Dual Braking System this year which includes the ever popular externally adjustable magnetic system coupled with an all new automatic centrifugal braking control to make those casts effortless with minimal backlash. All of these exciting features along with the free-floating V-grooved spool, recurve handle, and sleek new look combine for an awesome value at $79.99. Also, the reel is currently available online for the sale price of $59.97!

The 2012 Extreme Spinning Reel is available in four different sizes ranging from the ultralight 10 size for crappie and trout to the incredible 50 size that can handle upwards of 15 pound test monofilament for those large bass or even cat fishing! Each size possesses six total ball bearings for a super smooth feel when casting, retrieving, or fighting that incredible catch. The reels have varying inches per turn by model with a carbon fiber drag utilizing pressures ranging from 19.5 to 22 pounds! These reels use the Mag Spool Technology which uses a wider spool in order to assist with those long casts and decrease the dreaded line twist created by most spinning reels. These useful features combined with the one piece aluminum frame and free spare aluminum spool make this reel a great value at only $59.99. This reel is currently available online for the price of only $49.97!

Lastly, the Extreme Rods have been reengineered for 2012 as well. These rods are more lightweight, sensitive, and stronger than ever. All of the rods feature an IM-9 graphite blank and full contact Soft Touch reel seat for ultimate sensitivity as well as the new diamond weave carbon fiber in the butt section for enhanced strength and lifting power. There are also three models available in a three piece travel rod for those times when space is an issue. All of the options in these rods are a spectacular value at only $99.99. As with the reels, these rods are currently on sale online for the price of only $69.97 as well as in store for $69.97 as well!

As previously noted, the entire Extreme line has received an incredible makeover for 2012. The current sale prices online create an even greater value for each and every eager fisherman and as always, these rods and reels are available in baitcast and spinning combos for a savings of $20 per combo! We encourage you to check out our website or head to your nearest store to check out these incredible new items!

Tight Lines,

Gary G. Garver

Fishing Team Lead

Kodak, TN Bass Pro Shops

It seems that summer is already upon us here in East Tennessee, looks as if we went from Fall, no Winter, to Summer, no Spring. With temps already in the 80's it is time to start thinking about SUMMER footwear. Over the next couple of weeks I plan on dedicating my blogs to all of the new styles of summer shoes we have here at Bass Pro Shops.

First blog of the “Summer” is about the famous and trendy "TOE" Shoes. Over the last couple of years a number of footwear manufacturers have developed their own styles of the “Barefoot” shoes. The first being the Vibram Five-Finger shoes. Although we do not carry this style we continue to get requests for these shoes in the footwear department. This year Bass Pro Shops has taken those comments and we are offering two styles of Barefoot footwear to choose from. Both styles are very unique in they are completely different from the Five-Finger shoes.

The first we offer is by Merrell. As most of you know Merrell is a great company with a long tradition of offering top of the line styles of shoes from casual to hiking. And cover a wide range of products from running, hiking, water and casual shoes. Merrell has developed a great technology called the Barefoot technology. These shoes unlike the Vibram do not separate you toes from the toebox. They instead have engineered the shoes to have the technology in the sole of the shoe. Ironically they used this sole made by VIBRAM the same company that made the five finger shoe. The sole is contoured to the shape of the foot and does separate the striking points on the toes and heal. The total collection lets your feel follow their natural instincts rather than control them. They come in many different styles and functions, from Multi-Sport, running and casual to the newest lines, the current and the rapid gloves which are the perfect shoes for kayaking and canoeing.

They also offer these shoes in many different types of outsoles, from a breathable, ventilated shoe to GORTEX and watershoes with drainage ports in the front of the soles. They also promote a vegan friendly shoe that uses no animal products in construction yet does not diminish the quality or structure of the shoe. I really enjoy the technology that Merrell has put into this shoe and would recommend any of the styles we have on hand to my customers. The best part is they are reasonably priced, both men’s and ladies styles start at $99.99. Great company, great shoes at a great price. Check them out today in our footwear department at Bass Pro Shops.

The second style I would like to discuss is the Fila SKELE-TOE shoes. Many of us who have played sports such as Tennis and Soccer are well aware of Fila and the quality of the products they provide. With expanding into the TOE Shoe market they are taking on some of the giants in the technology of these shoes. I welcome everything they have to offer. Now this style does differ from the Merrell in that Fila does separate the toes on their shoes. Although unlike the Five-Finger, on the Fila only Four Toes are separated, they last two toes slide surprisingly comfortably in the same toe hole. This is what Fila calls their EZ-Slide system. They differ from the 5 finger slide because it is usually a little more difficult to get the 4th and 5th toe in the shoes. These shoes are offered in both men’s and women’s styles, and are very reasonably priced between $49.99 and $59.99. Though I will have to warn the buyer, though they are a toe shoe they have been marketed as more of a casual shoes then a true barefoot shoe. They have more padding in the soles and have a stiffer sole. This will provide you with more protection when wearing them. But if you are truly looking for the toe shoes that make you feel like your not wearing shoes at all I would look more at the Merrell barefoot. Cool thing is, and I know there are a lot of you out there that love to wear camo, THEY COME IN CAMO…

So no matter what style TOE shoes you are looking for we have both styles to fit your needs. Please stop by our footwear department and one of our knowledgeable associates will be more than happy to get you fitted for your new summer exercise shoes, TOE SHOES……… the way to go out barefoot without having to worry about hurting your feet in the process.

As always if you have any questions drop me a response or come in and see me I will be more than happy to help you.

Enjoy Everyday,

Lee D. Bridges
Team Lead Footwear
Bass Pro Shops – Sevierville, TN

Oh yes,Ladies....... You asked for it!   And it's here.

Browning PINK shooting apparel

Yes,sorry fellas ...... The ladies like to Hunt too.

This is our new deluxe range of shooting apparel by Browning. From hats to vests our prices range from $17.99- $64.99

A comfortable cap for lady outdoorsmen with a bold Browning look, the Browning® Spangle Buckmark Logo Cap shows a love for the outdoors with a feminine touch. A great cap for the weekend or wearing around town, this comfortable 100% cotton, six panel cap features a large, eye-catching Buckmark logo on the left front panel in bright, glittering spangles. Tailored specially for women like all Browning For Her apparel, this cap also features a Browning For Her logo over the back arch. Cap delivers a perfect, customized fit thanks to its adjustable hook and loop  closure. Color:  Pink.    One size fits most. Imported.

 A shooting vest made just for female shooters, the Browning Sporter II Shooting Vest for Ladies allows ladies to shoot all day long in comfort. This high performance shooting vest features a polyester mesh body for maximum ventilation and comfort on warm days at the range or in the field. Full-length quilted shooting patches over both shoulders include internal pockets for Browning's recoil-reducing REACTAR pad (sold separately). Notched shoulders provide easy movement. Large front shell pockets give you room for extra shells and gear. Large rear pocket for hulls. Button tab waist adjustments for comfortable fit. 3D embroidered Buckmark logo on the front with embroidered Claymaster and Browning for Her logos on back. Color: Pink/Brown. Imported.

Whether you are hunting, clay shooting or just going to the range,do it in Bass Pro and Browning style. Be sure to go to Bass Pro  to see our entire line of Ladies Hunting Apparel.

8:15 in the morning, temperature 52 degrees, 9 days before turkey season opens

The sky was clear blue with only a few wispy clouds. I'd been listening to a turkey gobble repeatedly for 10- 15 minutes outside on the big hill as I drank my first cup of coffee. Not being able to stand it any longer, I pulled back the curtains just enough to survey where he was. 160 yards away ... There was not one, but two, 10" bearded  gobblers in full strut. They were following one lonely hen . After watching their little dance of lust for a few minutes, I went to get my camera.

Slowly opening the front door to capture this moment,  I realized that four deer had joined them. There was a 4-pointer with one side broken off (yes, he still has his antlers), a spike , and two other deer. I went to get my wife , so she could see this unusual sight. But when I returned, the deer were already making their way up the hill. However, I noticed movements  in the brush, and  to our amazement, more turkeys were coming  into view.

Two smaller toms and a jake were following four hens towards the very mature, full strutting, purple-headed toms I had been watching. The hens, pecking nonchalantly , as they always seem to be doing, surrounded the toms. As the hens antics faded from my attention, I soon witnessed four strutting toms, each eagerly trying to outdo the others for the attention of the noncommittal hens.

After snapping a few long distance photos, I went back to my binoculars to watch this rare scene. All was peaceful until four horses came running over the hill and scattered this early morning spectacle.

What a way to start the day !

Stayed tuned for more of Mike's N'awlins Hillbilly Antics.......

The sound of birds chirping. The sounds of kids laughing and playing. The smell of fresh cut grass. The smell of food cooking in the great outdoors. Yep, that means it's Springtime and with Springtime comes Grill time!

Whether you're a charcoal grillmaster or a propane grillmaster, Bass Pro Shops is the place for you to find that perfect grill to start your grilling season off with.

You may just want a little tailgating grill. In which case, either of these would be perfect. We have the Brinkmann Portable Propane Grill for only $249.99 (top) or maybe you'd like even smaller with the Weber Baby Q for only $159.99 (bottom).

What if you wanted to go bigger....like really bigger????? Then let me suggest to you our Charbroil 6 Burner with a side burner for only $349.99. What a steal!

If you want to leave the kitchen out of the picture all together and cook your burgers and fry your fries all on the grill...? Frying french fries on the grill????? Yes sir! Just take this new to Bass Pro Smoke Canyon 5 Burner with a side fryer for a spin. It's only $349.99.

Well, what about charcoal grilling, you may be thinking. Sometimes people want the best of both worlds....a gas grill and a charcoal grill but don't want to have 2 different grills taking up valuable deck space. It's not sensible really. Let me show you the answer to that problem. It's a Chargriller Duo 50/50 and it's only $299.99. 2 full size grills for about half the price of one all in the same frame package. One side is gas and the other is charcoal. Can't beat that with a stick!

Then we have our smaller (but not too small) charcoal only grills. They are along the same lines as our Duo but with just the charcoal side. There's the Chargriller Outlaw that is $184.99 (top) and the Chargriller Deluxe Pro that is $149.99 (bottom).

If your not sure what exactly you're looking for, please come on by and see me, Deedee, at the Sevierville Bass Pro Shops and I will be more than happy to show you what we have to get your Springtime grilling off to a wonderful start!. While you're here, we'll take a look at some different grilling tools too.

We have everything you will need, from tools

to covers

and many many more accessories that you'll just have to have!

I'll be waiting for you!

Deedee
Camping Team Lead
Sevierville Bass Pro Shops
(865)932-5600
ddasmith@basspro.com

Now you can relive all your favorite Easter memories plus pass important family traditions on to your own children without it costing you a dime at Bass Pro Shops. There's no better time to get great outdoor memories started than during this first official event of spring.

Visit us at Bass Pro Shops in Sevierville, TN on March 31st thru April 8th and bring the kids to take part in free, fun Easter activities we have planned for the whole family. Kids will have fun doing the crafts and Mom and Dad will really enjoy the free photo opportunity for the kids as they visit the Easter Bunny. And, of course, there's the time honored tradition of an old-fashion Easter Egg Hunt.

Saturdays, March 31st and April 6, from 11 am -3 pm and Sundays, April 1st and April 8th, from 1-4 pm bring the kids to have their FREE 4x6 photo taken with the Easter Bunny. Pictures will also be taken Monday thru Friday, April 2-6 from 6-8 pm. An old-fashioned Easter Egg Hunt for kids ages 2-10 will be held Saturdays and Sundays, March 31st and April 1st and April 7th-8th from 1-2 pm. Registration for the Easter Egg Hunt will be at 12:30 pm with the hunt beginning promptly at 1 pm and lasting only until 2 pm.

Kids can enjoy fun crafts like making a foam magnet Easter Egg Photo Frame- Saturday, March 31st and Sunday April 1st from 12-3 pm. Then on Friday, April 6 from 6-8 pm they can make an Easter Sun catcher. If you can't make it on Friday we will have crafts again on Saturday and Sunday, April 7-8 beginning at 12-3 pm.

Bring the whole family to Bass Pro Shops this spring and enjoy making some great Easter memories. Visit www.bassproshops.com or www.facebook.com/bassproshopssevierville for more information on current events.

Choosing a gun is a very personal decision.  No matter what kind of gun you are buying or the reason you are buying it, your choice should be the right decision for you.  Ladies, would you ever consider wearing your husband’s shoes?  I am going to take a wild guess and say you are all cringing about right now.  If you would not wear their shoes, then  why on earth would you shoot their gun?  Chances are your husband’s gun of choice is not the right choice for you.  I know, I know, guns are scary and you are only considering buying one because someone else in your life thinks you need it.  Put everything else aside and ask your self two questions.  Do I really want a gun?  If I had a gun and had to could I actually use it?  If you answered either one of those questions no, then I would suggest you take some time and re-evaluate.  When you can honestly answer yes to both of those questions, then it is time to go gun shopping.

Did I actually say gun shopping???  Yes, I believe I did.  Time for some more questions.  How many pairs of shoes do you try on before you buy just one?  How many outfits do you try on before you buy just one?  Why would you think buying a gun would be any different?  When people in your life find out that you are considering purchasing a gun, they are going to give you all kinds of advice.  Take this advice with a grain of salt, dare I say even if it comes from your husband?  The best advice you can be given is GO GUN SHOPPING!  Answer some very specific questions for yourself, will I carry this gun on my body, will I carry this gun in my purse, will I carry this gun in my car, do I want a gun for my house?  What are your specific needs?  Your specific needs are a big determining factor as to what kind of gun you should buy.  Then the next question should be what gun fits me?  Yes FITS you.  What gun fits your hand the best?  Yes, we all have different size hands and there are all different size guns.  You need a gun that fits your hand and one that you can maintain good control of at all times.  This is a very important deciding factor in determining what gun is best for you.  Your loved ones will often advise a big caliber with lots of rounds.  If you cannot maintain control of a large caliber gun and hit anything with it then it is useless to you and not the right gun for you.  A well placed 22 round is more helpful than a 45 round that hits nothing.  These are just a few of the determining factors in what gun is right for you.

Ladies, come see me, Cindy Gose, at the gun counter at Bass Pro in Sevierville, TN.  Let’s try on some guns and start determining the right one for you.  I can give you information on classes to educate yourself on all aspects of gun handling.  I can also give you information on shooting ranges you can go to and shoot different types of guns to see what might be the right fit for you.  I can talk to you about revolvers versus semi-automatics.  I can let you hold every gun in the case if it is necessary to find the right one for you.  We have a great crew in the hunting department and any one of them will be happy to help assist you in making the right gun buying decision for you.  If you already have something in mind and don’t see it in the case, just ask for it.  Chances are if we don’t have it, we can get in just a few short days.  We are here to serve you and want you to purchase the gun you need.  My most important piece of advice…walk up to the counter and ask every question you can think of…just like shoe shopping, find the best fit for you.