Bass Pro Shops coming to Paducah

Bass Pro Shops made it official that they are coming to Paducah.

The Springfield, Missouri-based outdoor retailer plans to develop property off James Sanders Boulevard, adjacent to Kentucky Oaks Mall. Initial plans call for the store to be about 70,000 square feet and feature design elements celebrating the outdoor heritage of the area.

Paducah Mayor George Bray spoke to West Kentucky Star about the scope of the project. Bray said, “It’s probably the biggest, one of the biggest retail announcements we’ve had here, certainly, in the five-plus years I’ve been mayor, but maybe in a long time for Paducah. So, we’re super-excited.”  He added, “We’re right on the cusp or the edge of an outdoor wonderland, really, in this area, so it’s really a perfect sport for Bass Pro Shops.”   

Bass Pro Shops founder Johnny Morris said, "We are proud and excited to be able to serve the great outdoor enthusiasts in the Paducah region and the entire Bluegrass State. We have a great deal of passion for this entire region and all the outdoor recreation options it offers, and are looking forward to helping families and friends get outside and make happy memories together in the great outdoors."

Anthony Cafaro, Jr., Co-President of CAFARO, which operates Kentucky Oaks Mall said, “This development would not have been possible without the City's commitment to maintaining the viability of Kentucky Oaks Mall and the surrounding Hinkleville Rd. commercial corridor, and we are proud Bass Pro Shops will be the catalyst for this new chapter of growth."

Company officials made the formal announcement via press release on Wednesday morning. It comes after a package of tax incentives was adopted by the Paducah Board of Commissioners at Tuesday night’s meeting. The Board went into executive session to discuss the plan before returning to open session for a vote. The package was approved unanimously.

Bass Pro Shops hopes to have the Paducah location up and running by the end of 2026 or early in 2027.


Store rendering courtesy of Bass Pro Shops