October 26, 2026
By: Melissa Damel, Bill Jackson’s Store Manager For years, the Old Town Sportsman 120 has been a staple in the kayak fishing world, beloved for its legendary stability and the rock-solid reliability of its pedal drive. But in 2025, Old Town didn’t just “tweak” a classic; they completely re-imagined it. The result is the Old Town Sportsman […]
October 19, 2026
By Russ Abston, Gun Shop Supervisor Buying your first firearm is an exciting step, but navigating options, local laws, and technical gear can feel overwhelming. Whether you are considering a firearm for home defense, everyday concealed carry, target shooting, or hunting, making a safe and confident choice starts with asking the right questions. This guide […]
October 12, 2026
By: Saxon Graham, Fishing Department If you fish in Tampa Bay, or other surrounding waterways in Pinellas, Hillsborough, or Manatee County, you know how important healthy water is to a good catch. But fishing can also give you a unique stake in local conservation. Here’s how recreational and commercial fishermen in the Tampa Bay area […]
October 5, 2026
Brant Bowers, Camping Department Manager The History Behind Cast Iron Cookware: From 3rd Century China to the American Frontier Humans have been cooking with cast iron cookware since it was invented in 3rd century China. These pots have evolved a lot over the centuries. In 17th century Netherlands, legs were put on the bottom of […]
September 28, 2026
Bill Jackson’s Dive Shop Imagine you’re standing on the deck of a boat, the sun warm on your skin, a gentle breeze coming off the turquoise water. The dive master gives the briefing, and you’re ready to descend into the breathtaking world below. You gear up, perform your pre-dive safety check, and take that first […]
September 21, 2026
By Melissa Damel, Store Manager What Makes the Rackham Aero a Purpose-Built Fishing Paddle Board? For serious paddle board anglers, the name Rackham has always stood for the pinnacle of capacity, stability, and utility. It is famously known as the ultimate “waterman’s SUP”. But standing still on past achievements is not how modern innovation works. […]
September 14, 2026
Brant Bowers, Camping Department Manager Why the Big Three Matter for Ultralightweight Backpacking The Backpacking Big Three refers to your backpack, shelter, and sleep system, the three items that typically account for the majority of a hiker’s total pack weight. Optimizing them offers the single biggest opportunity to shed pounds and trek with greater comfort […]
September 7, 2026
By Mike Sfakianos, Bill Jackson’s Gun Shop Manager Deep cleaning an AR-15 goes beyond routine maintenance, it is the key to preserving system reliability and shot-to-shot consistency over thousands of rounds. Because the AR-15 relies on a direct-impingement design, carbon fouled gas and unburnt powder blow straight back into the heart of the receiver, rapidly […]
August 31, 2026
By Will Deem, Firearms Instructor Duck season is upon us once again. And, like last year, there will be new hunters who have never carried a shotgun afield, and pursued game. They will be eager, excited and possibly inexperienced. This being the case, what can a good hunter do to enhance their enjoyment and still […]
August 24, 2026
By Maria Luescher, Accounts Payable/Office Manager Forget bulky, complicated camp stoves that take up half your packing space. The Eureka! SPRK+ stove has sparked a revolution in portable cooking, proving that great meals can come from a compact, easy-to-use package. If you’re a car camper, van-lifer, or backyard adventurer looking for a hassle-free cooking solution, […]