We're reader-supported and only partner with brands we trust. When you buy through links on our site we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn More. Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date and time indicated and are subject to change.

It’s that time of year to dust off the rod and reel — fishing season is upon us. To mark its kickoff, Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s (which is owned by Bass Pro Shops) are celebrating with their annual Spring Fishing Classic, the largest nationwide fishing sale of the year. During this annual event that’s going on now until March 30, 2023, shoppers can upgrade their equipment with Cabela’s & Bass Pro Shops Rod and Reel Trade-In Event, and kids can take part in the chain’s weekend event on March 18 – 19, 2023.

Here’s everything to know about the Spring Fishing Classic sale at Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s, what to expect during the FREE kids’ weekend events, what’s included, and more.

Download The Krazy Coupon Lady app for more money-saving tips, deals, and coupons.

 

Cabela’s & Bass Pro Shops once-a-year spring fishing classic sale is a trade-in event, clearance sale and kids’ free activities rolled up in one.

person looking at the cabelas spring fishing sale on their iphone

The Bass Pro Shops Spring Classic Sale is loaded with discounted items from clothing to boats and tackle boxes to fish finders and transducers. Here are a few things we found that can save you up to 54% until March 30:

Related: Bass Pro Shops’ Easter Bunny 2023 Is On!

At the Bass Pro Shops/Cabela’s Rod and Reel Trade-In Event, you can trade in your old (working) equipment and save up to $100 on a new rod and reel.

people standing at the fishing center at bass pro shops

You can bring in your old rod and reel (in working condition) and trade them in for up to $100 off a new one from March 9 – 29, 2023. Here’s a look at the price for a new rod and reel and how much you can save:

  • $40 – $79.99, save $10
  • $80 – $119.99, save $20
  • $120 – $174.99, save $30
  • $175 – $219.99, save $40
  • $220 – $499.99, save, $50
  • $500 and up, save $100

The used fishing equipment will be refurbished and donated to local nonprofit youth organizations. Over the last seven years, Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s have donated over 400,000 items.

 

 

Cabela’s & Bass Pro Shops Spring Fishing Classic Kids’ Weekend is taking place March 18 – 19 with free activities for kids.

people fishing inside of a bass pro shops with children

Aside from the savings, we look forward to the Cabela’s and Bass Pro Shops Fishing Classic Kids Weekend because it is jam-packed with free activities to get children outdoors and learn how to fish. In 2023 this is taking place on March 18 – 19 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. While these activities vary by location, past events have included kids’ catch-and-release ponds, casting challenges, giveaways, popcorn, and photo downloads. You don’t need to register your child, but see your local store for more details.

At the Bass Pro Shops Orlando, Florida location, they’re specifically offering a free catch and release pond, free casting challenge, free backyard bass game, free photo download and a free fish craft. The Bass Pro Shops in Atlantic City, New Jersey, also offers the same activities according to the store’s flyer, as well as seminars from top fishing pros and pro appearances.

Got a Cabela’s near you? The sister store to Bass Pro Shops is also holding the Spring Fishing Classic Kids’ Weekend with the same type of free outdoor activities on March 18 – 19, 2023. For further information, visit your local Cabela’s.

 

If you’re a Bass Pro Shops/Cabela’s CLUB member, you’ll earn even more during the Spring Fishing Classic.

Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s don’t have the traditional rewards program like other retailers have. Instead, they offer exclusive promos, discounts, and rewards to those who have their Mastercard credit card. Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s CLUB customers earn $25 in CLUB points for every $250 spent in store during the Spring Fishing Classic.

In addition to the savings available to everyone and earning CLUB points, CLUB members get exclusive savings on items like:

 

Don’t forget you can also save with the Cabela’s & Bass Pro Shops Military Discount.

Don’t want to get a credit card just to enjoy savings during the Spring Classic sale? You may not have to if you’re a military member in any of the branches. Verified military members get a 5% military discount every day when shopping online or in store at Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s. The best part is you can stack it on top of sale prices! Just verify your status online or show your military ID during checkout in store.

Cabela's & Bass Pro Shops Fishing Classic Kids' Weekend Is March 18 - 19