We just visited the new Cabela's store in Owatonna, MN. I must admit it's an awesome site. The amazing 10,000 pound bronze statue of the two Boone and Crockett Whitetail deer at the entry is good indication of the show-case inside.

The building itself is massive with an outdoors rustic log cabin quality. Walking in the doors, the first thing you see is the top 12 Whitetail deer exhibit. If you appreciate racks with an artistic quality and full deer mounts, this is one display you shouldn't miss.

Huge bass, northern pike, walleyes, crappies, sunfish and catfish round out the aquarium. Cabela's are currently putting the finishing touches to the bass ponds surrounding the building itself.

They've built a replica of a mountain top and surrounded it with every conceivable type of North American wildlife. Huge grizzlies, polar bears, cougars, wolves, elk, moose and more, go from the ground up.

Even though the mountain scene is impressive, the exotic wildlife is even more of a sight to behold. Including a full size bull elephant, lions, gazelles and rhino's; many of the exhibits are on loan from museums known all round the world.

When you get through viewing all the attractions, every imaginable type of outdoor good, is on display - all the fishing paraphernalia you could ever dream of owning. It's a fisherman's dream come true! There's a huge range of clothes, shoes, gifts, and games too, as well as a restaurant on the mezzanine level.

Cabela's is expected to draw well over 4 million visitors during its first year. Situated just off Hwy. 35, driving past, the car park is packed with cars and buses most days. A new 60 room Comfort Inn is nearby too.

I'm lucky it's located in my back yard. So, if you ever decide to make a trip to see this enormous attraction, please feel free to e-mail me with any questions you might have at FishingUS News .

GoodFishin, Rick

NOTE: Click here to submit an article to Fishing Minnesota! Please send an appropriate pic of yourself and how you may be reached.

"Attack" © 1995

More of his work is located throughout the site and additions will be appearing soon.

Let us know what you think, please.
click here.