Bass Pro Shops — Local services in Owatonna

Went into the Owatonna store today to get a fishing license. The lady that helped me was very friendly and professional. Decided to go over to the fishing section as I had read a review of the Berkeley swim shad being a good versatile bait for a variety of fish. I had no idea which section they were in as the fishing section is pretty huge at cabelas. So I found myself in the crank bait section which I knew probably wasn’t right but I had no idea where to find them. Plus I’m a disabled veteran and walking is extremely painful so I just wanted to find them and get back to my truck to rest. So a worker comes by, a guy in his 50s or early 60s, and practically walks right by me. I flag him down and ask where I could find what I need. He immediately says, in a gruff tone, “well first off it’d help if you weren’t in the crank bait section.” I’m like, ok could you tell me where to go? The irony here is he couldn’t! He walks me over to the plastic worm section and says, “they’re probably in here somewhere.” By then I was pretty disgusted and told him, thanks, I’ll just look around. He sorta grunts again and says ok and walks away. So I never did find them. Ended up coming home, jumping on Berkeley’s website and ordering them there. Do better cabela’s. I won’t be back...

Bart was my first contact at Owatonna Cabela's. He was very knowledgeable on the boat I was looking for, and even went out of his way to send me additional requested pictures. His promptness, expertise, and phenomenal care is what ultimately led to the purchase of my new Tracker boat. When I arrived onsite, I was met again with some of the most outstanding service I have ever received, with any type of purchase. Bart was available on the spot, and happened to be the first person I met upon arriving. Additionally, Brent and he team were also ready and standing by for my arrival. It was like having a whole first class team standing by to show me the new boat. I was given a thorough walkthrough of everything I needed to know. There was a genuine sense of customer care. Everyone was extremely honest about product and services. So much so that I am willing to drive the extra distance just to work with this team on any future boating purchase I may plan. A huge shoutout to Bart, Brent, and everyone that helped us out!

*Update - A few days later I discovered something and needed some assistance. I reached out to the Manager Brent, who very promptly took care of my concern. I highly recommend this location to anyone looking for their next...

First time ever at Cabela’s last Thursday. I went in search of my first bait caster. Since it’s my first I wasn’t looking to spent $100. My max was $85. I drove from Lakeville since fleet farm in Lakeville was out of left handed bait casters. When I asked the guys working in the fishing section he laughed that I was looking for a bait caster combo for under $100 and said you can’t find one for under $100 that’s nice. I explained it’s my first one and my first time here. I also mentioned once I grab one I’m excited to check out the giant fish tank. Looked around with me but seemed disgusted I didn’t want one for $150+.

I found a younger guy working in fishing he seemed eager to help and then asked the same previous guy if we had any in my price range. First guy was dissatisfied that I asked someone else. 2nd guy explained they are short on left handed bait casters but fleet farm down the road may have some. I went to fleet farm and bought a $85 Pfulger Monarch bait caster green in color. Literally the perfect purchase. And it performs well. Not sure why the store had hardly anything under $100 let alone left handed. (3) total. I was just really disappointed in my first...