Hundreds gather to celebrate Bass Pro Shops new Twin Ports location

HERMANTOWN, Minn. (Northern News Now) - Hundreds attended the Grand Opening of the Bass Pro Shops new Hermantown location, giving outdoor enthusiasts a place to get their gear.

This is Bass Pro Shops fifth Minnesota location, and first in the Twin Ports.

General Manager of the new store, Joe Thompson, hopes to employ 150 outfitters and said this will not only have a huge impact on the Twin Ports economy, but thinks it will also help northlanders enjoy the outdoors.

“We’ve got boats, we’ve have our service center, we have our aquarium for you to come and enjoy some of those cold days inside somewhere warm, it’s always sunny and 72 in here, so we’re here to take care of you with whatever you need,” said Thompson.

Julie Pierce wasn’t planning on coming to Bass Pro Shops opening Wednesday but said when she saw all the commotion outside, she couldn’t resist.

“I got in line and there was all this energy and excitement going and then I realized it was the grand opening, so I’ve just been sticking around watching the line grow, watching cheerleaders come by, watching drones in the air,” said Pierce.

Cheerleaders from the Duluth Harbor Monsters and a live performance from country music star, Blaine Holcomb, were just some of the entertainment the community got to enjoy.

Avid fisherman and outdoorsman, Dan Burdick came all the way from Hibbing for the big grand opening.

“It’s something that Duluth, and the Northland has needed for years,” said Burdick.

20% of sales on most items sold Wednesday will be donated to local conservation organizations, and the first 200 customers to arrive Thursday will receive a free YETI water bottle.

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