First Field & Stream Store In Michigan Set To Open In Troy

TROY (CBS Detroit) Michigan's rabid fans of fishing, hiking and camping -- and there are plenty of them -- have been chomping at the bit as they drive north on I-75 and see the new Field and Stream store on the right in the parking lot of the Oakland Mall.

The outdoor goods store is set for a soft opening at 10 a.m. today, with a full grand opening with all the bells and whistles set to begin with a ribbon cutting ceremony at 9:45 a.m. March 26.

This is the brand's 11th store, and the first location in Michigan. About 100 full and part-timers were hired before the launch.

"I think when we have an opportunity to come into a community that has such a passionate following of outdoor and hunting enthusiasts, it's a perfect marriage," Chase McClain, brand manager for the store, told WWJ's Laura Bonnell.

He added the store specializes in having highly trained staff who are all outdoor enthusiasts themselves.

Fishing will be a particular specialty of this location, he added.

"We've been pleasantly surprised with our tackle business," he said. "I think it's going to be a great opportunity for us to grow the fishing business."

During the soft open that starts today, system kinks will be worked out until the grand opening.

And when the grand opening happens, McClain said shoppers should be prepared for a good time.

The first 500 people in line will get gift cards -- one of which is worth $500. Field & Stream will also host special appearances by the "bone collector" Nick Mundt, and Mike Stroff, host of "Savage Outdoors TV." There will be enter-to-win contests, prizes for kids, and giveaways of items like T-shirts and hats.

"I think the visual impact when you walk into the store is pretty astounding," McClain added. "There's certainly a 'wow' factor there."

After the grand opening, the store will offer seminars and classes for kids and adults and host conservation events, McClain said.

Click here for full details on the grand opening.