If you’ve heard rumors about Field & Stream going out of business, you’re not alone. The headlines can be confusing, especially because Field & Stream means two very different things. There’s the retail chain run by Dick’s Sporting Goods, and there’s the classic magazine and media brand. These two tracks have gone their separate ways, with one winding down and the other starting a new chapter.
If you’re thinking about launching an outdoor business, expanding your product line, or just need a clear view of market shifts, understanding this situation matters. Let’s break it down step by step so you know exactly what’s true, what’s changing, and what you can do next.
Understanding Field & Stream Retail Stores
When most people ask if Field & Stream is going out of business, they’re thinking of the physical stores. Here’s how that piece shakes out:
The Basics: Dick’s Sporting Goods and Field & Stream Stores
The Field & Stream retail chain began as Dick’s Sporting Goods’ answer to major outdoor outfitters. These were dedicated stores for hunting, fishing, and outdoor gear. For years, they seemed like a permanent feature in shopping centers.
Question for you: Does your business plan rely on big-box retailers for exposure? If so, this trend affects you.
Store Closures, Sell-Offs, and Conversions
Here’s what happened:
– In 2019, Dick’s Sporting Goods announced it would start selling off Field & Stream stores. Eight locations went to Sportsman’s Warehouse.
– As of late 2020, 23 Field & Stream stores still operated. Most were in major metro areas or near strong hunting and fishing markets.
– Very quickly, that number shrank. Dick’s began converting Field & Stream locations into new brands like Public Lands and House of Sport.
Tip: If you see a “store closing” banner at your local Field & Stream, that location is probably being rebranded or shut down for good.
What’s Behind the Shutdown?
Why is Dick’s phasing out Field & Stream stores? Two main reasons:
– They wanted to exit the firearm business. After several mass shootings, Dick’s removed assault-style weapons from shelves and decided firearms no longer fit their brand.
– They saw more growth in broader outdoor lifestyle concepts. Public Lands and House of Sport are built around camping, fitness, and community events—not just hunting or fishing.
If your current or future business works in this space, pay attention. It means less shelf space for old-school hunting gear and more for general outdoor products.
How Are Customers and Locals Responding?
Many communities have voiced their frustration or nostalgia for the old Field & Stream locations. Shoppers report steep discounts during clearance sales, but once inventory is gone, it’s gone. Employees get transferred, stores close for remodeling, and customers are directed to the new concepts.
A few examples:
– In Cranberry Township, PA, and Latham, NY, Field & Stream stores advertised “going out of business” sales—and then converted to House of Sport.
– In Columbus, OH, the Polaris location shifted to Public Lands, focusing less on hunting and more on hiking, climbing, and outdoor rec.
Ask yourself: Are you seeing similar retail shifts around you? How will this impact your sourcing or sales strategy?
The Bottom Line for Retail: The End of Field & Stream Stores
The Field & Stream retail brand under Dick’s is ending. Very few stores—if any—remain under the old banner. Most are already closed or rebranded as new concepts that actively move away from firearms and traditional hunting. If you’re searching for old-school Field & Stream stores, you probably won’t find them much longer.
If your business counted on them for product placement or networking, it’s time to review where your ideal customers shop now. Update your checklist: research alternative outdoor retailers, consider direct-to-consumer sales, or explore e-commerce.
What About Field & Stream Magazine and the Media Brand?
Here’s where things get interesting. The name Field & Stream doesn’t only belong on a storefront; it’s also one of the oldest outdoor lifestyle magazines in the U.S. This part of the business took a very different turn.
Field & Stream Magazine: A Little History
First published in 1895, Field & Stream magazine built its reputation with features on hunting, fishing, gear reviews, and outdoor adventure. Over the decades, it became a staple for outdoor enthusiasts.
Tip: If your product or service targets this type of engaged, loyal audience, media partnerships might be a smart play.
Print Paused—Digital Only, Then Layoffs
In late 2021, Field & Stream magazine (and its sister Outdoor Life) moved to digital-only under Camden Media. They stopped printing physical magazines, let staff go, and shifted all content to their website. For many, this felt like the end.
Question: Are print ads or product placements part of your marketing? If so, you might have paused your strategy with Field & Stream during this period.
The Revival: New Owners, New Print Issue, Fresh Ideas
Here’s the twist—January 2024 brought big news:
– Country music stars Eric Church and Morgan Wallen acquired Field & Stream magazine and the brand.
– They didn’t just revive it online. They relaunch the print issue in July 2024, bringing the classic feel back to newsstands and subscribers.
– The relaunch included new apparel, a membership community, and a signature live music festival to tie together fans, readers, and outdoor lovers.
Imagine a scenario—your outdoor equipment gets featured in the relaunch’s “Gear of the Month” and you showcase at their festival. Suddenly, your reach grows beyond the usual trade shows.
Expanded Focus—New Products, Events, and Partnerships
The brand’s new owners have big plans:
– The magazine now leads a broader “Field & Stream” lifestyle brand, including outdoor products and apparel.
– Via a partnership with Tractor Supply, Field & Stream products appear in more stores, with a full outdoor living range—from camp chairs to coolers.
– There’s an emphasis on experiences: live music, pop-up events, and even a planned “Field & Stream Lodge” for immersive retreats.
Planning your next product launch? Pitching a story? The new Field & Stream offers new platforms—both print and in-person—for exposure.
The Magazine’s Bottom Line: Still Running, Growing Again
The magazine didn’t go out of business; it transformed:
– Print stopped for a while but is now back on shelves.
– The brand and content are active, innovative, and growing beyond just a magazine.
– Readers can subscribe, join communities, and engage with exclusive events or branded goods.
This is a positive signal for entrepreneurs looking for marketing channels or partnerships with legacy brands on the upswing.
Why the Confusion? Untangling the Two Field & Streams
If you’re reading this and still feel uncertain, here’s why: Field & Stream means two different things—retail stores and a media brand.
– The Field & Stream retail chain (owned by Dick’s) is being closed, rebranded, and will soon disappear from malls or shopping centers.
– Field & Stream magazine and its branded products, however, are experiencing new growth under celebrity ownership, with expanded offerings.
A few things to consider:
– If your business involves retail, be aware of fewer in-person Field & Stream stores.
– If your marketing, media, or product partnerships involve outdoor media, the Field & Stream magazine is active, innovative, and open for business.
Tip: Always clarify which version people are referencing—store or magazine—before updating your business plan or strategy.
What Does This Mean for You as a Consumer or Business Owner?
– Your local Field & Stream store might have closed, or could be a Public Lands or House of Sport now. Check for clearance events when you need gear.
– If you were a magazine subscriber, print issues have returned! There are more ways to get involved, from apparel to events. Explore their updated site and membership perks.
If you’re curious about how other businesses handle pivots, closures, and revivals, you can find more tips at In Business Point for real-world examples and clear next steps.
Takeaways: The Two Realities of Field & Stream’s Future
Here’s the clear summary:
– The Field & Stream retail chain is being discontinued by Dick’s Sporting Goods. Most locations are closed or converted.
– Field & Stream magazine and its media business have a new lease on life—with print revived, new owners, and a broad product lineup.
When you’re ready to map your next move, check:
– Will these changes affect your customer outreach, shelf placement, or brand story?
– Are there new partnership or advertising opportunities with the revived magazine or its events?
– Should you study Public Lands or House of Sport as alternative retail partners?
Keep your eyes open for more shifts, but remember: the Field & Stream name isn’t vanishing from the outdoor industry. It’s evolving, and if you watch closely, you’ll spot fresh opportunities for your business or next adventure. Set your next milestone, update your outreach plan, and take the first step—knowing exactly which Field & Stream you’re working with.
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