Mark's Story
The shop, the family, and over 45 years behind one counter.
Russell Watts, CEO of Day 21, stated: "For over 45 years, Mark's Outdoors has been more than a store—it's been a family tradition for so many in our community, built on passion for the outdoors, unwavering customer care, and a welcoming spirit that feels like home. We are deeply honored to step in as the next stewards of this legacy. This isn't about change; it's about carrying forward a true Alabama family business into our family, investing in its future so that the same expertise, warmth, and outdoor camaraderie continue to bring people together for generations to come."
How we got here.
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| 1980 |
The doors open
Mark Whitlock founded Mark's Outdoor Sports in 1980. What started as a small fishing shop, eventually became one of the country's top 10 outdoor retail destinations. Mark was an industry icon, and for good reason. He built something very few people could through a combination of hard work, exceptional customer service, an incredible knack for merchandising, and a deep appreciation for his customers and employees.
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| 2012 |
The next Generation
After Mark Sr. passed in 2012, Mark’s Outdoors moved into the hands of Mark Sr.’s wife, Dana and his son, Mark Jr.
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| 2026 |
Continuing the Legacy
In January 2026, Russell and Ashely Watts, owners of Day 21 LLC, acquired Mark's Outdoors and are continuing to uphold the legacy that Mark Sr. and the Whitlock family left behind.
One family. Every era.
The founding generation
The Whitlock Family started Mark's Outdoors for over 40 years
The second generation
The Watts Family continues their legacy because of their love over shared values
The counter today
We continue our mission to share and educate about our outdoor passions, and how to better serve our community
Storefronts & grand openings.
