The Davis brothers not only have more than 40 combined years of retail experience, but also a lifetime of love for hunting and fishing.
The pair realized a 20-year dream Saturday with the grand opening of their new business, Davis Sports and Outdoors.
Casey Davis and Scotty Davis were born and raised in Necaise Crossing and according to Casey; everything they ate was killed, caught or grown by them.
Casey began his sporting retail career in 1990 at Hattiesburg’s Big Buck Sports.
“I excelled and grew in this business,” Casey said. “I received many offers and relocated at least 12 times.”
Casey has managed stores in New York, Kentucky, Alabama, Virginia and Pennsylvania. He has been the store manager at Gander Mountain, Bass Pro Shops and Sports Unlimited.
Scotty worked in the Wal-Mart sporting goods department for more than 20 years.
“I know about the products because I have used just about everything we sell in our store,” Scotty said. “Our dad taught us everything we know about proper hunting techniques.”
The store carries a wide variety of gear for sportsmen.
Step into the store and peer to the left where a hunter will find clothing necessities from brands including Longleaf Camo, Rip A Lip, Browning and Drake. Follow the left wall to find Lacrosse footwear. The brothers also sell rubber hunting and snake proof boots.
Along the back wall, enthusiasts will find crossbows by Barnett and Parker.
Move on down to the right of the crossbows and one will find riflescopes made by Leupold, Nikon, Burris, Pentax, Bushnell and Redfield.
Hunters can stock up on ammunition for their pistol, rifle or shotgun.
Travel along the left wall to view their sampling of tree stands, gun cases, safety harnesses and blinds.
The brothers sell a wide variety of hunting accessories including game cameras, flashlights and head lights, knives, saws, bug repellent, first aid, gun accessories, shooting sticks, feeders, deer attracting items, calls and scents, archery targets, orange safety vests, bow cases and children’s bows and BB guns.
Near the front of the store are items for fishermen.
The store can outfit both saltwater and freshwater fishermen with items such as hooks, sinkers and soft plastic baits.
The brothers offer a number of brands including Vudu Shrimp, Matrix Shad, Berkley Gulp and Zoom fishing.
Duckett Rods line the right wall and displayed in the front are rods by Abu Garcia, Lew’s and Penn.
In the back of the building, the business offers an archery range and plans to host competitions and tournaments in the near future.
“For a small fee, guests can come and practice archery daily, weekly or monthly,” Casey said.
Gunsmithing and bow repairing are available, Casey said. He is looking into repairing fishing reels as well.
Hunting is a way of life for Casey and Scotty.
“It gives me peace of mind,” Casey said. “It’s a way of life, a lifestyle that is in your blood.”
Casey teaches a hunter education class and certifies children for hunting and fishing.
“Hunting and fishing is relaxing,” Scotty said. “I have nothing negative to say about it.”
Davis Sports and Outdoors is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and noon to 6 p.m. on Sundays.
The business is located at 2312 Hwy. 11. N.
For more information contact them at 601-749-4775.
Visit the store’s Facebook page at Davis Sports and Outdoors.