A sportsman's paradise

Southern Rod and Gun and Feeder's Outdoors

By Jill Bock

Special to Business Today

SIKESTON - At a time when many people are giving up business for retirement and hobbies, Joe Gooch is giving up retirement to create a new business from his hobby. And together, Gooch and his brother, Jim, intend to create a complete shop for sportsmen from Southeast Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Illinois and Arkansas.

Joe Gooch said their business venture began when the men saw a need in the area for quality sports gear for Sikeston-area residents.

"My brother came up with the idea when Orschelen's closed," said Joe Gooch. "We examined different ways we could develop a business plan to meet the needs of those who hunt, fish or just want to be outdoors."

Their solution was the creation of two businesses in one. Jim Gooch added 7,200 square feet to the back of his existing business, Feeder's Pet Supply at 1014 Linn. Part of the addition includes his business -- Feeder's Outdoors. Another door leads to Joe Gooch's Southern Rod and Gun at the back of the building.

"In the past, people didn't have a full line of sporting guns available so they would have to drive somewhere or order. Well, they don't have to do that any more," said Gooch.

Calling his selection of guns one of the largest inventories between St. Louis and Memphis, Gooch is a full-line dealer for Browning Arms and also offers all major brands of guns including shotguns, rifles and pistols.

Standing at the counter filled with guns, scopes and other accessories, and backed by rows of target rifles, hunting rifles and shotguns, Gooch said, "We have everything you need for varmint hunting to paper punching."

The only Benelli dealer in Sikeston, Gooch pointed out these guns are considered the best by many water fowl hunters. Also, his shelves have the lighter, smaller guns used by youngsters just getting involved in the sport.

The store carries several major brands of ammunition along with binoculars, flashlights, knives and even some police equipment. And those who black-powder hunt will find all the supplies they need as well.

Gooch intends to be able to provide for all the sportsman's needs including licenses. Currently he is waiting on the equipment that will enable Southern Rod and Gun to offer hunting and fishing licenses for Missouri.

And, he adds, anything a sportsman needs and it isn't on their shelves, they will order. Gooch said most items will arrive quickly.

It isn't just equipment that will be available through the business. Gooch noted he has hunted and fished all of his life. "When it comes to deer season, my son and I bowhunt, then blackpowder then rifle. If they had a rock season, we would probably be doing that," he said with a laugh.

Gooch pointed out he is also an avid fisherman, taking part in many bass tournaments over the years. This experience, he said, will enable him to provide advice to those wanting to know a little more about the equipment needs for a sport. Prices on equipment, the owner said, are competitive and at all levels.

Once outfitted with the equipment, sportsmen can fill all the rest of their hunting needs through Feeders Outdoors. The store carries several lines of hunting clothes including Browning Hunting, Columbia, Scent-Lok and Wrangler. Work boots and hunting boots are available.

For those who enjoy archery, the store can fill their needs with a variety of bows, arrows and related supplies. Also, the outdoorsman will find an extensive selection of hunting and camping equipment, items for their hunting dogs and food for wildlife.

"We see these businesses as creating a place the whole family can enjoy," said Gooch about the three companies located together. "The kids might enjoy watching the pets, while mom checks out the clothes and dad takes a look at the guns."

Jill Bock is managing editor of the Standard Democrat in Sikeston.