Legendary Florida Outfitter Stores: Where Craftsmanship Meets Florida Heritage (Currently Open)
Florida is more than beaches and sunshine—it’s a state of explorers, anglers, boaters, and adventurers who live close to the land and sea. That rugged, independent spirit has shaped a distinct tradition of craftsmanship, heritage, and outdoor outfitting. Across the Sunshine State, a handful of legendary Florida outfitter stores continue to define what it means to be Floridian—where quality gear meets local pride, and every piece of equipment has a story behind it.
Whether you’re planning a deep-sea fishing trip, exploring the Everglades, or just love Florida-made craftsmanship, these iconic outfitters blend old-world quality with modern performance. Let’s take a journey through Florida’s most legendary outfitter stores, all currently open and thriving, where craftsmanship meets Florida heritage.
The Angler’s Paradise: Bass Pro Shops – Dania Beach
In South Florida, Bass Pro Shops in Dania Beach isn’t just a store—it’s a full-blown outdoor experience. Known as Outdoor World, this massive 150,000-square-foot wonderland celebrates everything that makes Florida’s wild spaces irresistible.
Inside, you’ll find aquariums teeming with native fish, lifelike wildlife displays, and aisles stocked with the best in fishing, boating, hunting, and camping gear. It’s especially known for its saltwater fishing selection, which caters perfectly to anglers heading for the Florida Keys or the Atlantic coast.
Families can grab a meal at Islamorada Fish Company, an in-store seafood restaurant that captures the flavors of Old Florida. Whether you’re shopping for gear or soaking in the atmosphere, Bass Pro Shops in Dania Beach is a pilgrimage spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
Heritage on the Water: Guy Harvey’s Outpost – St. Petersburg
Few names are as tied to Florida’s marine legacy as Dr. Guy Harvey, the renowned marine biologist, artist, and conservationist. His Guy Harvey Outpost in St. Petersburg blends ocean-inspired apparel, art, and gear with a deep commitment to marine life preservation.
Each piece of Guy Harvey gear—whether a performance shirt, fishing rod, or framed print—tells a story of ocean exploration and conservation. The store also features limited-edition artwork depicting Florida’s vibrant sea life, making it as much an art gallery as an outfitter.
By shopping here, you’re supporting sustainability, since a portion of every purchase helps fund the Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation. It’s the perfect stop for anyone who loves Florida’s waters and wants to preserve them for generations to come.
Coastal Classics: Salt Life Retail Store – Jacksonville Beach
Founded in Jacksonville Beach, Salt Life has become a household name across coastal America—but its roots are unmistakably Floridian. The brand captures that laid-back, barefoot lifestyle unique to the Sunshine State, blending surf, sand, and sea into everything it makes.
The Salt Life flagship store brings that lifestyle to life with apparel, accessories, and gear for divers, surfers, and anglers. You’ll find durable yet stylish performance wear designed for both adventure and relaxation.
There’s even a Salt Life Food Shack nearby, serving coastal favorites like poke bowls, tacos, and seafood fresh off the boat. More than just a shop, it’s a community hub for those who live the “salt life” every day.
The Old Florida Standard: Masthead Enterprises – Marathon
Down in the heart of the Florida Keys, Masthead Enterprises in Marathon is a family-owned outfitter that has served islanders and visitors for decades. Known for its custom boating supplies, marine apparel, and local know-how, this shop perfectly represents Old Florida craftsmanship.
From high-performance fishing shirts and tackle to custom rigging for serious boaters, Masthead blends functionality with local flavor. Staffed by lifelong Keys residents, it’s a place where visitors can get expert advice on everything from tarpon fishing to coral reef exploration.
When you shop at Masthead, you’re not just buying gear—you’re connecting with a local legacy built on generations of seafaring expertise.
Field and Stream Excellence: Gander Outdoors – Ocala
In Central Florida’s horse country, Gander Outdoors in Ocala caters to those who love the wilderness. This outfitter focuses on camping, hunting, RV gear, and hiking supplies, making it a must-stop for adventurers headed into North Florida’s forests and rivers.
The Ocala area, with its Silver Springs State Park and nearby Ocala National Forest, attracts outdoor enthusiasts year-round. Gander’s wide selection of outdoor apparel, tents, and off-road equipment reflects that active lifestyle.
It’s the kind of place where every item feels like an invitation to explore Florida’s untamed side—from tranquil freshwater springs to pine-scented trails.
Southern Tradition: Bill Jackson’s Shop for Adventure – Pinellas Park
Ask any Tampa Bay local about their favorite outfitter, and they’ll likely mention Bill Jackson’s Shop for Adventure. Open since 1946, this family-owned store has grown from a humble surplus outlet into one of Florida’s most respected outdoor retailers.
What makes it legendary is the store’s authenticity. You won’t just find top-quality gear—you’ll find classes, training, and personal service that reflect true passion for adventure.
Scuba training in an on-site heated pool
Kayak demos and workshops
Archery lessons and gear fitting
Bill Jackson’s is a place where generations of Floridians have prepared for their next journey, whether it’s diving in the Gulf, paddling through mangroves, or hiking across the Panhandle. It’s a living reminder that craftsmanship and customer care never go out of style.
For the Serious Angler: Mosquito Creek Outdoors – Apopka
Nestled near Lake Apopka, Mosquito Creek Outdoors is a Central Florida legend known for its dedication to fishing, hunting, and conservation. Its name pays homage to Mosquito Lagoon, one of the state’s top inshore fishing spots.
What sets Mosquito Creek apart is its community-driven focus—the store often hosts seminars, kids’ events, and conservation fundraisers, making it more than a retail space. Here, you’ll find premium rods, reels, and fly-fishing gear alongside apparel built for the Florida climate.
For those who take their outdoor heritage seriously, this outfitter delivers a perfect mix of expertise and genuine hospitality.
Made in Florida: The Florida Cracker Trading Company – Brooksville
If you want to feel Florida’s rustic heritage, stop by The Florida Cracker Trading Company in Brooksville. This family-run shop celebrates the state’s pioneer roots—when “Florida Cracker” referred to cowboys who herded cattle across the wild prairies.
Inside, you’ll find handcrafted leather goods, heritage apparel, and home décor that pay tribute to Old Florida living. Their popular Florida Cracker apparel line features designs inspired by the state’s cattle and fishing traditions.
The adjoining Florida Cracker Kitchen serves up hearty Southern meals like fried catfish, shrimp and grits, and biscuits made from scratch. This place is more than an outfitter—it’s a full immersion into Florida’s cultural soul.
The Ocean Outfitter: Avid Sportswear – Palm Beach Gardens
For those who live and breathe the ocean lifestyle, Avid Sportswear represents Florida’s coastal craftsmanship at its best. Based in Palm Beach Gardens, this premium outfitter designs performance fishing apparel and accessories that merge comfort, durability, and style.
Their gear is built for Florida’s intense sun and saltwater environment—lightweight, breathable, and functional without sacrificing looks. Avid’s products have become a favorite among professional anglers and offshore captains, but they’re just as popular with weekend adventurers who love a sleek, coastal look.
It’s the perfect example of modern Florida heritage—where performance meets laid-back luxury.
A Legacy on the Gulf: Economy Tackle & Kayak – Sarasota
Established in 1948, Economy Tackle & Kayak in Sarasota has been equipping locals for life on the water for generations. What began as a small bait and tackle shop has evolved into a full-service outfitter offering everything from fishing gear to kayaks and paddleboards.
Their expertise is unmatched when it comes to inshore and offshore fishing along the Gulf Coast. You’ll find high-end brands, knowledgeable staff, and even repair services for reels and kayaks.
What truly makes Economy Tackle special is its emphasis on community. The staff treats every customer like family, sharing tips on local fishing spots and stories that celebrate Florida’s coastal culture.
Outdoor Adventure Hub: Dick’s Sporting Goods – Tallahassee
While it’s a national chain, Dick’s Sporting Goods in Tallahassee holds a special place for outdoor enthusiasts in North Florida. As a gateway to the Apalachicola National Forest and the Gulf of Mexico, Tallahassee’s landscape demands quality gear for both land and sea adventures.
This location specializes in kayaks, camping equipment, and coastal fishing gear, tailored for North Florida’s diverse ecosystems. It’s a convenient, well-stocked outfitter that ensures you’re ready for whatever adventure awaits beyond the city limits.
Preserving the Spirit of Florida’s Outdoors
What unites these legendary Florida outfitter stores is more than just merchandise—it’s a shared respect for Florida’s wild beauty, craftsmanship, and heritage. From multi-generational family businesses to world-renowned brands, each one reflects the state’s adventurous DNA.
Bass Pro and Gander represent Florida’s modern frontier spirit.
Masthead and Economy Tackle honor small-town authenticity.
Guy Harvey, Salt Life, and Avid Sportswear bring ocean culture to life with artistry and innovation.
Florida Cracker Trading Company preserves the past, ensuring old traditions remain alive in the modern age.
Each store stands as a reminder that the outdoors isn’t just a hobby in Florida—it’s a way of life.
Conclusion: Where Tradition Meets Adventure
Across Florida, from the sandy shores of the Keys to the pine forests of the Panhandle, these outfitter stores carry more than products—they carry stories, legacies, and a sense of pride that runs deep in the state’s veins.
Whether you’re a lifelong Floridian or a first-time visitor, exploring these legendary outfitters gives you a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and heritage that make the Sunshine State so special.
So next time you plan a fishing trip, a camping getaway, or a coastal escape, skip the big-box routine and step into one of Florida’s iconic outfitter stores. You’ll find quality gear, genuine people, and a connection to something timeless—the true Florida spirit that still thrives today.