$7.5 million land sale clears way for first Bass Pro Shops in the Midlands
October 22, 2026
New 110,000-square-foot outdoor retail destination in Irmo expected to open in late 2027, creating more than 120 jobs
A $7.5 million land transaction in Irmo has paved the way for the Midlands’ first Bass Pro Shops, bringing one of the nation’s best-known outdoor retailers to the Greater Columbia market.
The sale involves 19.145 acres at the intersection of Broad River Road and Western Lane, where Bass Pro Shops plans to develop a 110,000-square-foot Outdoor World retail destination. The new store is expected to open in late 2027.
Bass Pro Shops officially announced the project on October 15, confirming plans for what will become its fourth destination retail location in South Carolina. The company currently operates stores in Greenville, Myrtle Beach and Rock Hill.
The Irmo location, approximately three miles from Lake Murray, will serve outdoor enthusiasts throughout the Midlands and surrounding communities. The store is expected to employ more than 120 people, whom the company refers to as Outfitters.
NAI Columbia announced the completion of the $7.5 million property transaction, which was handled by Ben Kelly, CCIM, and Patrick Chambers. The two commercial real estate professionals represented the landowner in the sale.
The project represents a significant addition to the Irmo retail market and could help attract shoppers from across central South Carolina. Bass Pro Shops stores are designed as regional shopping destinations, offering a broad selection of fishing, hunting, boating, camping and outdoor recreation equipment.
The company’s founder, Johnny Morris, emphasized the importance of the Midlands’ outdoor recreation heritage in announcing the new location.
“It is a true honor for us to serve the sportsmen and women who call this beautiful region home,” Morris said. “With Lake Murray offering some of the finest bass fishing in the country and generations of families enjoying the outdoors together, we’re proud to become part of that tradition.”
According to Bass Pro Shops, the new store will feature a custom design developed specifically for the Columbia market, incorporating elements that reflect the region’s outdoor traditions and conservation heritage.
The company’s Outdoor World locations are known for their immersive shopping environments, combining extensive merchandise selections with displays and design features inspired by local landscapes and wildlife.
The proximity to Lake Murray is particularly significant. The lake is a major destination for recreational boating and fishing and has hosted nationally recognized fishing tournaments, including Bassmaster and Major League Fishing events.
The arrival of Bass Pro Shops also adds a major national retail name to the Broad River Road corridor near Interstate 26. The development has the potential to generate additional customer traffic for nearby businesses and strengthen the area’s appeal as a regional shopping destination.
Founded in 1972 by Johnny Morris in Springfield, Missouri, Bass Pro Shops has grown into one of North America’s largest outdoor retail companies, with nearly 200 locations across the continent. The company joined forces with Cabela’s in 2017, expanding its national retail presence.
Additional information about employment opportunities at the Irmo location will be available through the company’s careers website as the project moves closer to completion.
