Osprey Bay Outdoors — Local services in Clearwater

We purchased our first kayak over 10 years ago from them when they were located on US 19 and you could demo in the creek behind the store. Since then we have relocated 75 miles away from Clearwater.

My wife and I decided we wanted to update and get separate kayaks, after being in 4 different stores both where we live and in the bay area over the past 2 weeks, the best experience we have been has been by far at Osprey Bay.

We have walked into shops and been completely ignored for a half hour, with no other customers there. We have been in a shop, been greeted and then ignored. We have been into a shop, provided good information, but when we requested a demo, we were charged to do so, and then only one of 2 popular models could be demonstrated, one a 12 footer and 14 footer, 2 feet does make a difference on handling characteristics, and we would never buy a kayak without trying it out first. Finally when we asked about a specific option on a kayak (angler package) we were told we would have to wait until the next shipment comes in, in about a month. This I felt was strange since it only required putting in some foot padding and rod holders. They said they can't cut decks.

As noted above don't buy a Kayak without trying it out! We learned this at Osprey Bay all those years ago, when we felt the kayak we wanted would work, it was too tippy, during the demo, so they had us try another model, which worked perfect.

We have been in the Osprey Bay store twice before today and we were greeted immediately and were asked about what we were looking for. Various options were shown based on our needs. We were then told about the "demo day" being held today . In advance during one of our previous visits they asked what models we would like to try. Of the 4 we were interested in, 3 were available, we were told the 4th one could be demonstrated privately, but not at a Demo Day.

When were arrived today at the scheduled time: All the kayaks we had requested were there as were probably a dozen other ones that other customers had requested.

All kayaks were ready to go as well as the safety equipment and paddles.

Te owners were extremely knowledgeable, giving little hints to all the people there, excellent for someone who may be new to the sport.

They were extremely patient, in my case recommending going back and forth between lengths and models to make sure we were comfortable in the boat.

In my case a kayak that I was really interested in, due to the style of seat, turned out to be too tippy for me. Without the demo, that would have been a big miss

Though they did not have have angler model in stock, they have the required parts and have no issues with installing them on the basic model. They also are able to do repairs on the kayak.

Finally all of this was free of charge.

The owners listen well, provide excellent guidance, and are extremely down to earth, when we discussed some of our frustration with trying to buy a boat at other dealers closer to our home, she spoke highly and complimentary of their competition.

Because of our experience today, we will be buying 2 kayaks...

I had been in the market for a roof-mounted cargo box for several weeks now. I actually purchased one online and it didn’t fit my crossbar spread even though the retailer said, “you should be fine”.

After that debacle, I went on Thule’s website and found what I thought was the perfect carrier. Except, I couldn’t find one online that was in stock or available with like $200 shipping tacked on. Although out-of-stock online, the Thule site suggested Osprey Bay Outdoors. I called over and spoke with a really nice guy named Tom. Very courteous, knowledgeable, and helpful and he said he had several to choose from in the store. Tom said to swing over and he would help me test fit everything and make sure it was good to go.

Well, I’ve found my new outdoor gear store!! These guys are incredibly well-stocked, fair prices, and the customer service is above reproach! Tom went out of his way and even installed on my Highlander and answered all the questions I had. Turns out that Tom is the owner of this place too! I’m pretty sure I’ve never had an owner of any business give me that kind of respect and red-carpet treatment. Even though there were several customers in there, I felt like I was the only one. He’s definitely passionate about his business and these guys will certainly get my future business and referrals! Top notch!! Thanks Osprey...

Just purchased 2 kayaks and roof rack from Osprey Bay. The customer service was amazing! You don't get customer service like this at many places any more. Staff was very knowledgeable and friendly. Stopped in to look at a few kayaks and learn which type would work best for my wife and I and figure out my transport options. I didn't expect them to have everything I needed in stock and offer to install a roof rack for free! I thought I'd have to arrange a transport system separately and then return to purchase the boats later once that was taken care of, but instead, I was able to purchase 2 kayaks and drive away with them strapped to my new roof rack in less than 2 hours. Staff helped strap the boats down and made sure I knew how to do it properly before leaving. I can't recommend Osprey Bay in Clearwater enough if you're looking to get...