Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Outdoor Gear Store in Iowa City, IA
Fin & Feather was founded in 1967 by Roger and Linda Mildenstein as a small hunting and fishing shop in Iowa City. Over decades, we expanded our offerings to include apparel, camping equipment, and paddling sports while maintaining our family-owned roots. Our mission remains centered on exceptional customer care, combining personalized service with a comprehensive selection of outdoor gear. We operate both a retail store and a sister business, Fin & Feather H2O, which provides watercraft rentals during warmer months.Our team brings extensive product knowledge and a passion for outdoor activities, serving both casual enthusiasts and seasoned adventurers. We pride ourselves on staying current with industry innovations while preserving the trusted relationships built over 50+ years in the community. Our commitment to quality extends to curated brands, expert guidance, and practical solutions for all outdoor pursuits.
Services
Fishing Equipment Sales
Hunting Gear
Camping Supplies
Paddle Sports Rentals
Outdoor Apparel
Details
- Year established: 1967
Highlights and features
- Family-owned since 1967 with generational outdoor expertise
- Comprehensive selection of fishing, hunting, and camping gear
- Expert staff with practical outdoor experience
- Seasonal watercraft rentals at Fin & Feather H2O
- Community-focused service with personalized recommendations
What people say
Very helpful staff
Great selection
Knowledgeable and caring
Excellent customer service
Favorite outdoor destination
Services
Fishing Equipment Sales
We offer comprehensive fishing equipment including rods, reels, tackle, and accessories from trusted brands. Our inventory covers freshwater and saltwater needs with expert guidance for both novice and professional anglers. Products include specialized gear for musky, bass, and fly fishing.
Hunting Gear
Our hunting department provides firearms, ammunition, archery equipment, and outdoor apparel. We stock essential gear for deer, waterfowl, and upland game hunting with safety equipment and practical field accessories.
Camping Supplies
We supply complete camping solutions including tents, sleeping bags, cooking systems, and storage solutions. Our inventory supports backpacking, car camping, and extreme weather conditions with durable, tested products.
Paddle Sports Rentals
Fin & Feather H2O offers kayak, canoe, and stand-up paddleboard rentals seasonally. We provide life jackets, safety instructions, and local waterway information for Terry Trueblood Recreation Area access.
Outdoor Apparel
Our apparel department features weather-resistant outerwear, hiking boots, and performance clothing for men, women, and children. We carry technical fabrics and layered systems for all-season outdoor activities.
People
Roger Mildenstein
Co-Founder
Roger Mildenstein co-founded Fin & Feather in 1967 with his wife Linda. He built the business from a small hunting shop to a comprehensive outdoor destination through decades of dedicated service.
Linda Mildenstein
Co-Founder
Linda Mildenstein established Fin & Feather with Roger in 1967. Her vision helped expand the store's offerings while maintaining the personalized customer service that defines the business today.
Questions
What outdoor product categories do you carry?
We stock fishing, hunting, camping, and paddling equipment alongside outdoor apparel and footwear for men, women, and children.
Do you offer watercraft rentals?
Yes, our Fin & Feather H2O location rents kayaks, canoes, stand-up paddleboards, and pedal boats seasonally at Terry Trueblood Recreation Area.
Are your staff knowledgeable about outdoor gear?
Our team has extensive practical experience and product knowledge to help with equipment selection for all skill levels and outdoor conditions.
What are your store hours?
We're open Monday-Friday 10AM-6PM, Saturday & Sunday 9AM-5PM. Seasonal changes may apply to our H2O location.
Do you have gift options for outdoor enthusiasts?
We offer gift cards and curated gift packages with essential outdoor gear for birthdays, holidays, and special occasions.
