The new 148,000-square-foot store will be built at Grossmont Center with convenient access from Interstate 8 and State Route 125. The massive destination retailer is expected to open in 2028 and will employ more than 150 Outfitters, the company's term for its retail associates. The announcement confirms what SanDiegoVille first reported on June 15, when sources familiar with redevelopment discussions revealed Bass Pro Shops was preparing to take over the former Macy's property at Grossmont Center.
For decades, San Diego County residents have had to travel to Orange County, the Inland Empire or beyond to visit a Bass Pro Shops location. The La Mesa store will finally give local anglers, hunters, campers, hikers, boaters and outdoor enthusiasts a destination of their own.
"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."
Founded by Morris in 1972 as an eight-square-foot fishing tackle display inside his father's liquor store in Springfield, Missouri, Bass Pro Shops has grown into one of North America's most recognizable outdoor retailers. Today, the company operates approximately 200 locations across the United States and Canada, including Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's stores.
Unlike a traditional sporting goods retailer, Bass Pro Shops locations are designed as immersive destinations. Each store features regionally inspired architecture, large wildlife displays, museum-quality taxidermy, aquariums, educational exhibits and interactive experiences intended to celebrate local outdoor traditions. The La Mesa store will feature a custom design highlighting Southern California's unique fishing, boating and outdoor recreation heritage.
The retailer is known for carrying an extensive selection of fishing tackle, hunting equipment, camping gear, hiking supplies, outdoor apparel, footwear, kayaks, boats, ATVs, archery equipment and more, often at a scale unmatched by conventional sporting goods chains.
"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."
The addition marks one of the most significant retail announcements in recent San Diego history and represents another major milestone in Grossmont Center's ongoing redevelopment.
Owned by Federal Realty Investment Trust, the longtime East County shopping center has been undergoing a multi-phase modernization that includes new restaurants, upgraded storefronts, expanded public gathering spaces, landscaping improvements and entertainment additions. Earlier this month, AMC Theatres also confirmed plans to take over the former Reading Cinemas location after that theater abruptly closed.
"Bass Pro Shops is exactly the kind of destination retailer that brings people together," said Jon Stoeckly, Federal Realty's Vice President of Regional Development. "Their commitment to outdoor recreation, family experiences, and community aligns perfectly with our vision for the future of Grossmont Center."
Bass Pro Shops currently operates five California locations, making La Mesa its sixth store in the state and its first in San Diego County.
The company says the new store will continue its longstanding emphasis on conservation, outdoor education and community engagement. Over the past decade, Bass Pro Shops says it has donated more than 10 percent of its earnings toward conservation initiatives and continues to support military personnel, first responders and wildlife professionals through its Legendary Salute Program, which provides a 10 percent everyday discount.
For San Diego's outdoor community, however, today's announcement is significant for a simpler reason: after decades of speculation and years of road trips north, Bass Pro Shops is finally coming to America's Finest City.
Construction timelines and additional details about the project are expected to be announced as development progresses. Employment opportunities will be posted at basspro.com/careers as the opening date approaches.
Originally published on July 1, 2026.
