Sayreville, N.J. – On Wednesday, Bass Pro Shops marked the debut of its new Outdoor World location with an Evening for Conservation event that welcomed families, outdoor enthusiasts and community members. The ceremony began with live entertainment at 5 p.m., followed by a ribbon‑cutting at 6 p.m., and the store officially opened its doors to the public.
Family‑focused amenities and conservation education
The 200,000‑square‑foot destination sits within the Riverton retail complex near the I‑95 and I‑287 interchange, positioning it as a regional hub for the Tri‑State area. Bass Pro Shops says the venue blends retail, conservation education and entertainment, aiming to serve families and outdoor lovers alike.
Highlights include an 80,000‑gallon Shipwreck Aquarium that houses more than 280 fish, a ray‑touch pool and jellyfish displays. The store also features The Flemish Cap, a restaurant and entertainment space with bowling lanes and arcade games. As a tribute to presidential conservation champions, the venue will display President George H.W. Bush’s personal offshore fishing boat, Fidelity V.
Veterans Day tribute and charitable giving
Opening the store on Veterans Day carries special meaning for Bass Pro Shops. Founder Johnny Morris cites the service of his father, World War II veteran John A. Morris, as a core inspiration for the company’s long‑standing support of veterans and military families. During the Evening for Conservation, fifteen percent of sales on most items will be donated to local conservation organizations, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to stewardship of natural resources.
Entertainment and community engagement
The celebration featured a performance by singer‑songwriter Celeste Kellogg and appearances by NASCAR driver Martin Truex Jr., fishing personalities Jimmy Houston, George Poveromo, Brian “Pigman” Quaca, Junie Quaca and Rick Clunn, as well as PAW Patrol characters and fishing expert Charlie Evans. Guests could meet the stars and obtain autographs through 8 p.m.
Grand‑opening weekend activities include a VIP Veterans Tent, giveaways, door prizes and holiday programming. Starting Thursday, Nov. 12, families can visit Santa’s Wonderland and receive a complimentary 4‑by‑6‑inch photo with Santa. Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s CLUB members enjoy a 10 percent discount on most in‑store purchases from Nov. 11 through Nov. 15.
Store hours and future plans
Following the Evening for Conservation ceremony, the store opened for regular business hours on Thursday, Nov. 12, operating from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sundays. Bass Pro Shops plans to host additional community events and educational programs throughout the year, reinforcing its role as a local gathering place for families, veterans and conservation advocates.
Original reporting: Brookhaven News – ABC7 New York — read the source article.
