Cabelas 10-Q 24 Apr 14 2014 Q1 Quarterly report Financial data

Document_and_Entity_Informatio

Document and Entity Information Document	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014	Apr. 21, 2014
Entity Information [Line Items]	'	'
Entity Registrant Name	'CABELAS INC	'
Entity Central Index Key	'0001267130	'
Current Fiscal Year End Date	'--12-27	'
Entity Filer Category	'Large Accelerated Filer	'
Document Type	'10-Q	'
Document Period End Date	29-Mar-14	'
Document Fiscal Year Focus	'2014	'
Document Fiscal Period Focus	'Q1	'
Amendment Flag	'false	'
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	'	71,021,692
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	'Yes	'
Entity Voluntary Filers	'No	'
Entity Current Reporting Status	'Yes	'

Condensed_Consolidated_Stateme

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 29, 2014	Mar. 30, 2013
Merchandise sales	$620,197	$711,713
Financial Services revenue	98,578	85,772
Other revenue	7,048	5,012
Total revenues	725,823	802,497
Merchandise costs (exclusive of depreciation and amortization)	406,643	458,627
Cost of other revenue	1,322	68
Total cost of revenue (exclusive of depreciation and amortization)	407,965	458,695
Selling, distribution, and administrative expenses	277,005	264,687
Operating income	40,853	79,115
Interest expense, net	-3,685	-5,356
Other non-operating income, net	2,102	1,539
Income before provision for income taxes	39,270	75,298
Provision for income taxes	13,521	25,451
Net income	$25,749	$49,847
Earnings per basic share	$0.36	$0.71
Earnings per diluted share	$0.36	$0.70
Basic weighted average shares outstanding	70,766,568	70,157,744
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding	71,758,033	71,372,824

Condensed_Consolidated_Stateme1

Condensed Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 29, 2014	Mar. 30, 2013
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent	$25,749	$49,847
Unrealized gain on economic development bonds, net of taxes of $1,103 and $402	1,847	685
Cash flow hedges	0	1
Foreign currency translation adjustments	-3,617	-246
Total other comprehensive income (loss)	-1,770	440
Comprehensive income	$23,979	$50,287

Condensed_Consolidated_Stateme2

Condensed Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income Parentheticals (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 29, 2014	Mar. 30, 2013
Taxes on unrealized loss on economic development bonds	$1,103	$402
Taxes on derivative adjustment	'	$0

Condensed_Consolidated_Balance

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $)	Mar. 29, 2014	Dec. 28, 2013	Mar. 30, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Cash and cash equivalents	$484,586	$199,072	$363,747
Restricted cash of the Trust	24,609	23,191	19,401
Accounts receivable, net	27,959	42,868	26,826
Credit card loans (includes restricted credit card loans of the Trust of $3,726,122, $3,956,230, and $3,375,103), net of allowance for loan losses of $51,010, $53,110, and $64,700	3,698,529	3,938,630	3,334,619
Inventories	742,021	644,883	613,065
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	92,650	90,438	147,782
Income taxes receivable and deferred income taxes	58,229	47,430	46,954
Assets, Current	5,128,583	4,986,512	4,552,394
Property and equipment, net	1,366,298	1,287,545	1,074,169
Economic development bonds	80,056	78,504	84,463
Other assets	43,689	44,303	49,211
Assets	6,618,626	6,396,864	5,760,237
Accounts payable, including unpresented checks of $26,824, $22,717, and $41,442	250,181	261,200	388,286
Gift instrument, credit card rewards, and loyalty rewards programs	277,185	291,444	248,902
Accrued expenses	123,723	204,073	126,899
Time deposits	212,141	297,645	355,722
Current maturities of secured variable funding obligations of the Trust	0	50,000	0
Debt, Current	255,000	0	0
Current maturities of long-term debt	8,422	8,418	8,406
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Current	757	0	0
Liabilities, Current	1,127,409	1,112,780	1,128,215
Long-term time deposits	728,000	771,717	613,645
Secured long-term obligations of the Trust	2,452,250	2,452,250	2,154,750
Long-term debt, less current maturities	540,587	322,647	319,923
Deferred income taxes	7,346	3,118	14,669
Other long-term liabilities	131,090	128,018	100,395
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES	'	'	'
Preferred stock, $0.01 par value; Authorized – 10,000,000 shares; Issued – none	0	0	0
Class A Voting, Authorized – 245,000,000 shares; Issued – 70,604,935, 70,545,558, and 70,545,524 shares; Outstanding – 70,604,705, 70,053,144, and 70,019,501 shares	710	706	705
Additional paid-in capital	348,162	346,535	338,465
Retained earnings	1,286,566	1,260,817	1,086,274
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	-3,494	-1,724	5,982
Treasury stock, at cost – 51,495 shares at March 30, 2013	0	0	-2,786
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent	1,631,944	1,606,334	1,428,640
Liabilities and Equity	6,618,626	6,396,864	5,760,237
Secured Debt [Member]	'	'	'
Debt, Current	255,000	'	'
Long-term debt, less current maturities	$2,452,250	'	'

Condensed_Consolidated_Balance1

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets Parentheticals (USD $)	Mar. 29, 2014	Dec. 28, 2013	Mar. 30, 2013
Allowance for loan losses	$51,010,000	$53,110,000	$64,700,000
Unpresented checks	26,824,000	22,717,000	41,442,000
Common stock, par value	$0.01	$0.01	$0.01
Common stock, shares authorized	245,000,000	245,000,000	245,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	71,009,175	70,630,866	70,545,558
Preferred stock, par value	71,009,175	70,630,866	70,494,063
Preferred stock, shares authorized	$0.01	$0.01	$0.01
Preferred stock, shares authorized	10,000,000	10,000,000	10,000,000
Preferred Stock, Shares Issued	0	0	0
Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding	0	0	0
Treasury Stock, Carrying Basis	$0	$0	$51,495

Condensed_Consolidated_Stateme3

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 29, 2014	Mar. 30, 2013
Net income	$25,749	$49,847
Depreciation and amortization	26,073	21,092
Stock-based compensation	4,064	3,493
Deferred income taxes	6,240	2,527
Provision for loan losses	12,714	12,775
Other, net	3,003	-347
Accounts receivable	14,671	19,012
Credit card loans originated from internal operations, net	72,910	58,972
Inventories	-98,390	-60,490
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	-3,304	-15,356
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	-96,263	31,308
Gift instrument, credit card rewards, and loyalty rewards programs	-14,042	-13,751
Other long-term liabilities	3,653	5,051
Income taxes receivable	-13,136	8,379
Net cash provided by operating activities	-56,058	122,512
Property and equipment additions	-110,889	-64,984
Change in credit card loans originated externally, net	-154,477	-91,106
Proceeds from retirement and maturity of economic development bonds	1,398	1,665
Change in restricted cash of the Trust, net	-1,418	-2,109
Other investing changes, net	-145	-108
Net cash used in investing activities	43,423	25,570
Change in unpresented checks net of bank balances	4,107	12,514
Change in time deposits, net	-129,221	-78,651
Borrowings on secured obligations of the Trust	265,000	907,250
Repayments on secured obligations of the Trust	-60,000	-905,000
Borrowings on revolving credit facilities and inventory financing	509,208	67,732
Repayments on revolving credit facilities and inventory financing	-278,914	-67,772
Payments on long-term debt	-8,210	-8,206
Exercise of employee stock options and employee stock purchase plan issuances, net	-4,021	-128
Excess tax benefits from exercise of employee stock options	1,791	3,084
Purchase of treasury stock	0	-3,906
Other financing changes, net	-1	-2
Net cash provided by financing activities	299,739	-73,085
Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents	-1,590	0
Net change in cash and cash equivalents	285,514	74,997
Cash and cash equivalents, at beginning of period	199,072	288,750
Cash and cash equivalents, at end of period	$484,586	$363,747

Condensed_Consolidated_Stateme4

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity (USD $)	Total	Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]	Treasury Stock [Member]	Common Stock [Member]
In Thousands, except Share data
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Beginning of Period at Dec. 29, 2012	$1,375,979	$351,161	$1,036,427	$5,542	($17,856)	$705
Shares, Issued Beginning of Period at Dec. 29, 2012	'	'	'	'	'	70,545,558
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent	49,847	'	'	'	'	'
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax	-246	0	0	'	'	0
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent	440	'	'	440	'	'
Common stock repurchased	-3,906	'	'	'	-3,906	'
Stock-based compensation	3,324	3,324	0	0	'	0
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period	'	'	'	'	'	0
Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Requisite Service Period Recognition	-128	-19,104	0	0	18,976	0
Excess tax benefit on employee stock option exercises	3,084	3,084	0	0	'	0
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest End of Period at Mar. 30, 2013	1,428,640	338,465	1,086,274	5,982	-2,786	705
Shares, Issued End of Period at Mar. 30, 2013	'	'	'	'	'	70,545,558
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Beginning of Period at Dec. 28, 2013	1,606,334	346,535	1,260,817	-1,724	0	706
Shares, Issued Beginning of Period at Dec. 28, 2013	'	'	'	'	'	70,630,866
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent	25,749	'	'	'	'	'
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax	-3,617	0	0	'	'	0
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent	-1,770	'	'	'	'	'
Stock-based compensation	3,861	3,861	0	0	'	0
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period	210,523	'	'	'	'	378,309
Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Requisite Service Period Recognition	-4,021	-4,025	0	0	0	4
Excess tax benefit on employee stock option exercises	1,791	1,791	0	0	'	0
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest End of Period at Mar. 29, 2014	$1,631,944	$348,162	$1,286,566	($3,494)	$0	$710
Shares, Issued End of Period at Mar. 29, 2014	'	'	'	'	'	71,009,175

Management_Representations

Management Representations	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
Management Representations [Abstract]	'
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	MANAGEMENT REPRESENTATIONS
	Principles of Consolidation – The condensed consolidated financial statements included herein are unaudited and have been prepared by management of Cabela's Incorporated and its wholly-owned subsidiaries (“Cabela's,” “Company,” “we,” or “our”) pursuant to the rules and regulations of the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America have been condensed or omitted pursuant to such rules and regulations. The Company's condensed consolidated balance sheet as of December 28, 2013, was derived from the Company's audited consolidated balance sheet as of that date. All other condensed consolidated financial statements contained herein are unaudited and reflect all adjustments which are, in the opinion of management, necessary to summarize fairly our financial position and results of operations, comprehensive income, and cash flows for the periods presented. All of these adjustments are of a normal recurring nature. All intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
	Cabela's wholly-owned bank subsidiary, World's Foremost Bank ("WFB," "Financial Services segment," or "Cabela's CLUB"), is the primary beneficiary of the Cabela's Master Credit Card Trust and related entities (collectively referred to as the “Trust”) under the guidance of Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") Topics 810, Consolidations, and 860, Transfers and Servicing. Accordingly, the Trust was consolidated for all reporting periods of Cabela's in this report. As the servicer and the holder of retained interests in the Trust, WFB has the powers to direct the activities that most significantly impact the Trust's economic performance and the right to receive significant benefits or obligations to absorb significant losses of the Trust. The credit card loans of the Trust are recorded as restricted credit card loans and the liabilities of the Trust are recorded as secured obligations.
	Because of the seasonal nature of the Company's operations, results of operations of any single reporting period should not be considered as indicative of results for a full year. These condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the Company's audited consolidated financial statements for the fiscal year ended December 28, 2013.
	Cash and Cash Equivalents – Cash and cash equivalents of the Financial Services segment were $421,575, $94,112, and $281,705 at March 29, 2014, December 28, 2013, and March 30, 2013, respectively. Due to regulatory restrictions on WFB, the Company cannot use WFB's cash for non-banking operations.
	Reporting Periods – Unless otherwise stated, the fiscal periods referred to in the notes to these condensed consolidated financial statements are the 13 weeks ended March 29, 2014 (“three months ended March 29, 2014”), the 13 weeks ended March 30, 2013 (“three months ended March 30, 2013”), and the 52 weeks ended December 28, 2013 ("year ended 2013"). WFB follows a calendar fiscal period and, accordingly, the respective three month periods ended on March 31, 2014 and 2013, and the fiscal year ended on December 31, 2013.

Cabelas_Master_Credit_Card_Tru

Cabela's Master Credit Card Trust	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
Cabela's Master Credit Card Trust [Abstract]	'
Loans, Notes, Trade and Other Receivables Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	CABELA'S MASTER CREDIT CARD TRUST
	The Financial Services segment utilizes the Trust for the purpose of routinely securitizing credit card loans and issuing beneficial interests to investors. The Trust issues variable funding facilities and long-term notes (collectively referred to herein as "secured obligations of the Trust" in this report), each of which has an undivided interest in the assets of the Trust. The Financial Services segment also owns notes issued by the Trust from some of the securitizations, which in some cases may be subordinated to other notes issued.
	The following table presents the components of the consolidated assets and liabilities of the Trust at the periods ended:
		March 29,			December 28,			March 30,
		2014			2013			2013
	Consolidated assets:
	Restricted credit card loans, net of allowance of $50,840, $52,820, and $64,440	$	3,675,282		$	3,903,410		$	3,310,663
	Restricted cash	24,609			23,191			19,401
	Total	$	3,699,891		$	3,926,601		$	3,330,064
	Consolidated liabilities:
	Secured variable funding obligations	$	—		$	50,000		$	—
	Secured long-term obligations	2,707,250			2,452,250			2,154,750
	Interest due to third party investors	1,898			1,904			1,978
	Total	$	2,709,148		$	2,504,154		$	2,156,728
	CREDIT CARD LOANS AND ALLOWANCE FOR LOAN LOSSES
	The following table reflects the composition of the credit card loans at the periods ended:
		March 29,			December 28,			March 30,
		2014			2013			2013
	Restricted credit card loans of the Trust (restricted for repayment of secured obligations of the Trust)	$	3,726,122		$	3,956,230		$	3,375,103
	Unrestricted credit card loans	18,379			29,619			19,006
	Total credit card loans	3,744,501			3,985,849			3,394,109
	Allowance for loan losses	(51,010		)	(53,110		)	(64,700		)
	Deferred credit card origination costs	5,038			5,891			5,210
	Credit card loans, net	$	3,698,529		$	3,938,630		$	3,334,619
	Allowance for Loan Losses:
	The following table reflects the activity in the allowance for loan losses by credit card segment for the periods presented:
		Three Months Ended
		29-Mar-14									30-Mar-13
		Credit Card Loans			Restructured Credit Card Loans			Total Credit Card Loans			Credit Card Loans			Restructured Credit Card Loans			Total Credit Card Loans
	Balance, beginning of period	$	44,660		$	8,450		$	53,110		$	42,600		$	23,000		$	65,600
	Provision for loan losses	9,967			2,747			12,714			12,688			87			12,775
	Charge-offs	(15,911		)	(4,054		)	(19,965		)	(15,008		)	(3,292		)	(18,300		)
	Recoveries	4,074			1,077			5,151			3,420			1,205			4,625
	Net charge-offs	(11,837		)	(2,977		)	(14,814		)	(11,588		)	(2,087		)	(13,675		)
	Balance, end of period	$	42,790		$	8,220		$	51,010		$	43,700		$	21,000		$	64,700
	Credit Quality Indicators, Delinquent, and Non-Accrual Loans:
	The Financial Services segment uses the scores of Fair Isaac Corporation (“FICO”), a widely-used tool for assessing an individual's credit rating, as the primary credit quality indicator, with the risk of loss increasing as an individual's FICO score decreases.
	The table below provides information on current, non-accrual, past due, and restructured credit card loans by class using the respective quarter FICO score at the periods ended:
	March 29, 2014:	FICO Score of Credit Card Loans Segment									Restructured Credit Card Loans Segment (1)
		691 and Below			692 - 758			759 and Above						Total
	Credit card loan status:
	Current	$	541,421		$	1,244,910		$	1,862,740		$	34,033		$	3,683,104
	1 to 29 days past due	15,686			9,828			9,021			3,080			37,615
	30 to 59 days past due	6,396			1,112			514			1,603			9,625
	60 or more days past due	11,212			154			22			2,769			14,157
	Total past due	33,294			11,094			9,557			7,452			61,397
	Total credit card loans	$	574,715		$	1,256,004		$	1,872,297		$	41,485		$	3,744,501
	90 days or more past due and still accruing	$	6,075		$	12		$	2		$	1,115		$	7,204
	Non-accrual	—			—			—			5,431			5,431
	December 28, 2013:	FICO Score of Credit Card Loans Segment									Restructured Credit Card Loans Segment (1)
		691 and Below			692 - 758			759 and Above						Total
	Credit card loan status:
	Current	$	527,202		$	1,299,982		$	2,047,424		$	34,444		$	3,909,052
	1 to 29 days past due	20,702			13,421			12,953			3,962			51,038
	30 to 59 days past due	7,013			1,229			296			1,641			10,179
	60 or more days past due	12,445			184			31			2,920			15,580
	Total past due	40,160			14,834			13,280			8,523			76,797
	Total credit card loans	$	567,362		$	1,314,816		$	2,060,704		$	42,967		$	3,985,849
	90 days or more past due and still accruing	$	6,637		$	36		$	17		$	1,381		$	8,071
	Non-accrual	—			—			—			5,381			5,381
	March 30, 2013:	FICO Score of Credit Card Loans Segment									Restructured Credit Card Loans Segment (1)
		691 and Below			692 - 758			759 and Above						Total
	Credit card loan status:
Current	$	468,960		$	1,116,527		$	1,706,368		$	42,705		$	3,334,560
1 to 29 days past due	14,556			9,253			8,700			3,754			36,263
30 to 59 days past due	6,198			991			202			1,683			9,074
60 or more days past due	11,001			151			14			3,046			14,212
Total past due	31,755			10,395			8,916			8,483			59,549
Total credit card loans	$	500,715		$	1,126,922		$	1,715,284		$	51,188		$	3,394,109
90 days or more past due and still accruing	$	5,862		$	22		$	4		$	1,370		$	7,258
Non-accrual	—			—			—			6,052			6,052
-1	Specific allowance for loan losses of $8,220 at March 29, 2014, $8,450 at December 28, 2013, and $21,000 at March 30, 2013, are included in allowance for loan losses.

Credit_Card_Loans_and_Allowanc

Credit Card Loans and Allowance For Loan Losses	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
FICO SCores Credit Card Loans [Abstract]	'
Loans, Notes, Trade and Other Receivables Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	CABELA'S MASTER CREDIT CARD TRUST
	The Financial Services segment utilizes the Trust for the purpose of routinely securitizing credit card loans and issuing beneficial interests to investors. The Trust issues variable funding facilities and long-term notes (collectively referred to herein as "secured obligations of the Trust" in this report), each of which has an undivided interest in the assets of the Trust. The Financial Services segment also owns notes issued by the Trust from some of the securitizations, which in some cases may be subordinated to other notes issued.
	The following table presents the components of the consolidated assets and liabilities of the Trust at the periods ended:
		March 29,			December 28,			March 30,
		2014			2013			2013
	Consolidated assets:
	Restricted credit card loans, net of allowance of $50,840, $52,820, and $64,440	$	3,675,282		$	3,903,410		$	3,310,663
	Restricted cash	24,609			23,191			19,401
	Total	$	3,699,891		$	3,926,601		$	3,330,064
	Consolidated liabilities:
	Secured variable funding obligations	$	—		$	50,000		$	—
	Secured long-term obligations	2,707,250			2,452,250			2,154,750
	Interest due to third party investors	1,898			1,904			1,978
	Total	$	2,709,148		$	2,504,154		$	2,156,728
	CREDIT CARD LOANS AND ALLOWANCE FOR LOAN LOSSES
	The following table reflects the composition of the credit card loans at the periods ended:
		March 29,			December 28,			March 30,
		2014			2013			2013
	Restricted credit card loans of the Trust (restricted for repayment of secured obligations of the Trust)	$	3,726,122		$	3,956,230		$	3,375,103
	Unrestricted credit card loans	18,379			29,619			19,006
	Total credit card loans	3,744,501			3,985,849			3,394,109
	Allowance for loan losses	(51,010		)	(53,110		)	(64,700		)
	Deferred credit card origination costs	5,038			5,891			5,210
	Credit card loans, net	$	3,698,529		$	3,938,630		$	3,334,619
	Allowance for Loan Losses:
	The following table reflects the activity in the allowance for loan losses by credit card segment for the periods presented:
		Three Months Ended
		29-Mar-14									30-Mar-13
		Credit Card Loans			Restructured Credit Card Loans			Total Credit Card Loans			Credit Card Loans			Restructured Credit Card Loans			Total Credit Card Loans
	Balance, beginning of period	$	44,660		$	8,450		$	53,110		$	42,600		$	23,000		$	65,600
	Provision for loan losses	9,967			2,747			12,714			12,688			87			12,775
	Charge-offs	(15,911		)	(4,054		)	(19,965		)	(15,008		)	(3,292		)	(18,300		)
	Recoveries	4,074			1,077			5,151			3,420			1,205			4,625
	Net charge-offs	(11,837		)	(2,977		)	(14,814		)	(11,588		)	(2,087		)	(13,675		)
	Balance, end of period	$	42,790		$	8,220		$	51,010		$	43,700		$	21,000		$	64,700
	Credit Quality Indicators, Delinquent, and Non-Accrual Loans:
	The Financial Services segment uses the scores of Fair Isaac Corporation (“FICO”), a widely-used tool for assessing an individual's credit rating, as the primary credit quality indicator, with the risk of loss increasing as an individual's FICO score decreases.
	The table below provides information on current, non-accrual, past due, and restructured credit card loans by class using the respective quarter FICO score at the periods ended:
	March 29, 2014:	FICO Score of Credit Card Loans Segment									Restructured Credit Card Loans Segment (1)
		691 and Below			692 - 758			759 and Above						Total
	Credit card loan status:
	Current	$	541,421		$	1,244,910		$	1,862,740		$	34,033		$	3,683,104
	1 to 29 days past due	15,686			9,828			9,021			3,080			37,615
	30 to 59 days past due	6,396			1,112			514			1,603			9,625
	60 or more days past due	11,212			154			22			2,769			14,157
	Total past due	33,294			11,094			9,557			7,452			61,397
	Total credit card loans	$	574,715		$	1,256,004		$	1,872,297		$	41,485		$	3,744,501
	90 days or more past due and still accruing	$	6,075		$	12		$	2		$	1,115		$	7,204
	Non-accrual	—			—			—			5,431			5,431
	December 28, 2013:	FICO Score of Credit Card Loans Segment									Restructured Credit Card Loans Segment (1)
		691 and Below			692 - 758			759 and Above						Total
	Credit card loan status:
	Current	$	527,202		$	1,299,982		$	2,047,424		$	34,444		$	3,909,052
	1 to 29 days past due	20,702			13,421			12,953			3,962			51,038
	30 to 59 days past due	7,013			1,229			296			1,641			10,179
	60 or more days past due	12,445			184			31			2,920			15,580
	Total past due	40,160			14,834			13,280			8,523			76,797
	Total credit card loans	$	567,362		$	1,314,816		$	2,060,704		$	42,967		$	3,985,849
	90 days or more past due and still accruing	$	6,637		$	36		$	17		$	1,381		$	8,071
	Non-accrual	—			—			—			5,381			5,381
	March 30, 2013:	FICO Score of Credit Card Loans Segment									Restructured Credit Card Loans Segment (1)
		691 and Below			692 - 758			759 and Above						Total
	Credit card loan status:
Current	$	468,960		$	1,116,527		$	1,706,368		$	42,705		$	3,334,560
1 to 29 days past due	14,556			9,253			8,700			3,754			36,263
30 to 59 days past due	6,198			991			202			1,683			9,074
60 or more days past due	11,001			151			14			3,046			14,212
Total past due	31,755			10,395			8,916			8,483			59,549
Total credit card loans	$	500,715		$	1,126,922		$	1,715,284		$	51,188		$	3,394,109
90 days or more past due and still accruing	$	5,862		$	22		$	4		$	1,370		$	7,258
Non-accrual	—			—			—			6,052			6,052
-1	Specific allowance for loan losses of $8,220 at March 29, 2014, $8,450 at December 28, 2013, and $21,000 at March 30, 2013, are included in allowance for loan losses.

Securities

Securities	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
Securities [Abstract]	'
Investments in Debt and Marketable Equity Securities (and Certain Trading Assets) Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	SECURITIES
	Economic development bonds, which are classified as available-for-sale, consisted of the following at the periods ended:
		Amortized Cost		Gross Unrealized Gains		Gross Unrealized Losses			Fair Value
	29-Mar-14	$	69,674	$	10,382	$	—		$	80,056
	28-Dec-13	$	71,072	$	7,432	$	—		$	78,504
	30-Mar-13	$	72,880	$	11,765	$	(182	)	$	84,463
	The carrying value and fair value of these securities classified by estimated maturity based on expected future cash flows at March 29, 2014, were as follows:
		Amortized Cost		Fair Value
	For the nine months ending December 27, 2014	$	1,932	$	2,400
	For the fiscal years ending:
	2015	2,244		2,792
	2016	2,690		3,292
	2017	2,617		3,161
	2018	3,074		3,660
	2019 - 2023	23,069		26,877
	2024 and thereafter	34,048		37,874
	Totals	$	69,674	$	80,056
	Interest earned on the securities totaled $1,007 and $1,036 in the three months ended March 29, 2014, and March 30, 2013, respectively. There were no realized gains or losses on these securities in the three months ended March 29, 2014, or March 30, 2013.

Borrowings_of_Financial_Servic

Borrowings of Financial Services Segment	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
Borrowings of Financial Services Subsidiary [Abstract]	'
Debt Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	BORROWINGS OF FINANCIAL SERVICES SEGMENT
	The Trust issues fixed and floating (variable) rate term securitizations, which are considered secured obligations backed by restricted credit card loans. A summary of the secured fixed and variable rate long-term obligations of the Trust by series, the expected maturity dates, and the respective weighted average interest rates are presented in the following tables at the periods ended:
	March 29, 2014:
	Series	Expected	Fixed Rate Obligations		Interest Rate		Variable Rate Obligations			Interest Rate		Total Obligations			Interest Rate
		Maturity Date
	Series 2010-I	Jan-15	$	—	—	%	$	255,000		1.61	%	$	255,000		1.61	%
	Series 2010-II	Sep-15	127,500		2.29		85,000			0.86		212,500			1.72
	Series 2011-II	Jun-16	155,000		2.39		100,000			0.76		255,000			1.75
	Series 2011-IV	Oct-16	165,000		1.9		90,000			0.71		255,000			1.48
	Series 2012-I	Feb-17	275,000		1.63		150,000			0.69		425,000			1.3
	Series 2012-II	Jun-17	300,000		1.45		125,000			0.64		425,000			1.21
	Series 2013-I	Feb-23	327,250		2.71		—			—		327,250			2.71
	Series 2013-II	Aug-18	100,000		2.17		197,500			0.81		297,500			1.26
	Series 2014-I	Mar-17	—		—		255,000			0.53		255,000			0.53
	Secured long-term obligations of the Trust		1,449,750				1,257,500					2,707,250
	Less current maturities		—				(255,000		)			(255,000		)
	Secured long-term obligations of the Trust, less current maturities		$	1,449,750			$	1,002,500				$	2,452,250
	December 28, 2013:
	Series	Expected	Fixed Rate Obligations		Interest Rate		Variable Rate Obligations			Interest Rate		Total Obligations			Interest Rate
		Maturity Date
	Series 2010-I	Jan-15	$	—	—	%	$	255,000		1.62	%	$	255,000		1.62	%
	Series 2010-II	Sep-15	127,500		2.29		85,000			0.87		212,500			1.72
	Series 2011-II	Jun-16	155,000		2.39		100,000			0.77		255,000			1.75
	Series 2011-IV	Oct-16	165,000		1.9		90,000			0.72		255,000			1.48
	Series 2012-I	Feb-17	275,000		1.63		150,000			0.7		425,000			1.3
	Series 2012-II	Jun-17	300,000		1.45		125,000			0.65		425,000			1.21
	Series 2013-I	Feb-23	327,250		2.71		—			—		327,250			2.71
	Series 2013-II	Aug-18	100,000		2.17		197,500			0.82		297,500			1.27
	Secured long-term obligations of the Trust		$	1,449,750			$	1,002,500				$	2,452,250
	March 30, 2013:
	Series	Expected	Fixed Rate Obligations		Interest Rate		Variable Rate Obligations			Interest Rate		Total Obligations			Interest Rate
		Maturity Date
	Series 2010-I	Jan-15	$	—	—	%	$	255,000		1.65	%	$	255,000		1.65	%
	Series 2010-II	Sep-15	127,500		2.29		85,000			0.9		212,500			1.74
	Series 2011-II	Jun-16	155,000		2.39		100,000			0.8		255,000			1.77
	Series 2011-IV	Oct-16	165,000		1.9		90,000			0.75		255,000			1.5
	Series 2012-I	Feb-17	275,000		1.63		150,000			0.73		425,000			1.31
	Series 2012-II	Jun-17	300,000		1.45		125,000			0.68		425,000			1.22
	Series 2013-I	Feb-23	327,250		2.71		—			—		327,250			2.71
	Secured long-term obligations of the Trust		$	1,349,750			$	805,000				$	2,154,750
	The Trust sold asset-backed notes of $300,000 (Series 2014-I) on March 25, 2014. The Series 2014-I securitization transaction included the issuance of $255,000 Class A notes and three subordinated classes of notes in the aggregate principal amount of $45,000. The Financial Services segment retained each of the subordinated classes of notes which were eliminated in the preparation of our condensed consolidated financial statements. Each class of notes issued in the Series 2014-I securitization transaction has an expected life of approximately three years and a contractual maturity of approximately six years. This securitization transaction will be used to fund the growth in restricted credit card loans.
	The Trust also issues variable funding facilities which are considered secured obligations backed by restricted credit card loans. The Trust renewed one of its variable funding facilities on March 27, 2014, for an additional three years and increased the commitment from $350,000 to $500,000. At March 29, 2014, the Trust had three variable funding facilities with $1,025,000 in total capacity and no amounts outstanding. The variable funding facilities are scheduled to mature in March of 2015, 2016, and 2017. Each of these variable funding facilities includes an option to renew subject to certain terms and conditions. Variable rate note interest is priced at a benchmark rate, London Interbank Offered Rate, or commercial paper rate, plus a spread, which ranges from 0.50% to 0.85%. The variable rate notes provide for a fee ranging from 0.25% to 0.40% on the unused portion of the facilities. During the three months ended March 29, 2014, and March 30, 2013, the daily average balance outstanding on these notes was $4,222 and $91,444, with a weighted average interest rate of 0.75% and 0.77%, respectively.
	The Financial Services segment has unsecured federal funds purchase agreements with two financial institutions. The maximum amount that can be borrowed is $85,000. There were no amounts outstanding at March 29, 2014, December 28, 2013, or March 30, 2013. During the three months ended March 29, 2014, there was no daily average balance outstanding. During the three months ended March 30, 2013, the daily average balance outstanding was $27 with a weighted average rate of 0.75%.

LongTerm_Debt_and_Capital_Leas

Long-Term Debt and Capital Leases	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
Long Term Debt and Capital Leases [Abstract]	'
Debt and Capital Leases Disclosures [Text Block]	'
	LONG-TERM DEBT AND CAPITAL LEASES
	Long-term debt, including revolving credit facilities and capital leases, consisted of the following at the periods ended:
		March 29,			December 28,			March 30,
		2014			2013			2013
	Unsecured $415 million revolving credit facility	$	229,086		$	2,932		$	—
	Unsecured notes due 2016 with interest at 5.99%	215,000			215,000			215,000
	Unsecured senior notes due 2017 with interest at 6.08%	60,000			60,000			60,000
	Unsecured senior notes due 2015-2018 with interest at 7.20%	32,572			40,714			40,714
	Unsecured $20 million Canadian revolving credit facility	—			—			—
	Capital lease obligations payable through 2036	12,351			12,419			12,615
	Total debt	549,009			331,065			328,329
	Less current portion of debt	(8,422		)	(8,418		)	(8,406		)
	Long-term debt, less current maturities	$	540,587		$	322,647		$	319,923
	The Company has a credit agreement providing for a $415,000 revolving credit facility that expires on November 2, 2016. The unsecured $415,000 revolving credit facility permits the issuance of letters of credit up to $100,000 and swing line loans up to $20,000. This credit facility may be increased to $500,000 subject to certain terms and conditions. During the three months ended March 29, 2014, and March 30, 2013, the daily average principal balance outstanding on the lines of credit was $7,712 and $1,621, respectively, and the weighted average interest rate was 1.67% and 1.45%, respectively. Letters of credit and standby letters of credit totaling $24,578 and $24,694 were outstanding at March 29, 2014, and March 30, 2013, respectively. The daily average outstanding amount of total letters of credit during the three months ended March 29, 2014, and March 30, 2013, was $14,201 and $16,469, respectively.
	The Company also has an unsecured $20,000 Canadian ("CAD") revolving credit facility for its operations in Canada. Borrowings are payable on demand with interest payable monthly. This credit facility permits the issuance of letters of credit up to $10,000 CAD in the aggregate, which reduces the overall available credit limit.
	At March 29, 2014, the Company was in compliance with the financial covenant requirements of its $415,000 credit agreement with a fixed charge coverage ratio of 8.98 to 1 (minimum requirement is 2.00 to 1), a leverage ratio of 1.03 to 1 (requirement is no more than 3.00 to 1), and a consolidated net worth that was $535,203 in excess of the minimum. At March 29, 2014, the Company was in compliance with all financial covenants under its credit agreements and unsecured notes. We anticipate that we will continue to be in compliance with all financial covenants under our credit agreements and unsecured notes through at least the next 12 months.

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
Income Taxes [Abstract]	'
Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	INCOME TAXES
	A reconciliation of the statutory federal income tax rate to the effective income tax rate was as follows for the periods presented.
		Three Months Ended
		March 29,		March 30,
		2014		2013
	Statutory federal rate	35	%	35	%
	State income taxes, net of federal tax benefit	1.7		1.4
	Other nondeductible items	0.3		0.1
	Tax exempt interest income	(0.5	)	(0.4	)
	Rate differential on foreign income	(0.7	)	(2.3	)
	Change in unrecognized tax benefits	(1.4	)	0.4
	Other, net	—		(0.4	)
	Effective income tax rate	34.4	%	33.8	%
	As of March 29, 2014, cash and cash equivalents held by our foreign subsidiaries totaled $59,686. Our intent is to permanently reinvest these funds outside the United States for capital expansion. Based on the Company's current projected capital needs and the current amount of cash and cash equivalents held by our foreign subsidiaries, we do not anticipate incurring any material tax costs beyond our accrued tax position in connection with any repatriation, but we may be required to accrue for unanticipated additional tax costs in the future if our expectations or the amount of cash held by our foreign subsidiaries change.
	The Company paid a total sum of $53,418 in prior periods as deposits for federal taxes related to prior period uncertain tax positions in 2012 and 2011. The deposits were classified as a current asset netted within income taxes receivable and deferred income taxes in the condensed consolidated balance sheet.
	The Company's tax years 2007 through 2011 are under examination by the Internal Revenue Service ("IRS"). In late 2012, the IRS issued a revenue agent report summarizing its determination of the adjustments required to the 2007 and 2008 income tax returns. We disagree with the adjustments made by the IRS in their revenue agent report and are currently appealing the adjustments. We expect the appeals process for the 2007 and 2008 tax years to be completed within the next 12 months. We do not expect the examination and related appeal for the 2009, 2010, and 2011 tax years to be completed within the next 12 months. We have reserved for potential adjustments for income taxes that may result from examinations by the tax authorities, and we believe that the final outcome of these examinations or agreements will not have a material effect on the Company's financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows.
	The balance of unrecognized tax benefits, classified as other long-term liabilities in the condensed consolidated balance sheet, totaled $66,996, $64,800, and $40,968 at March 29, 2014, December 28, 2013, and March 30, 2013, respectively. The changes comparing the respective periods were due primarily to our assessments of uncertain tax positions related to prior period tax positions. Since the Company is routinely under audit by various taxing authorities, and the Company expects to resolve the tax issues at appeals for the 2007 and 2008 examination years in 2014, it is reasonably possible that the amount of unrecognized tax benefits will change during the next 12 months. However, we do not expect the change, if any, to have a material effect on the Company's consolidated financial condition or results of operations within the next 12 months.

Commitments_and_Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies [Abstract]	'
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
	The Company leases various buildings, computer and other equipment, and storage space under operating leases which expire on various dates through January 2041. Rent expense on these leases as well as other month to month rentals was $4,148 in the three months ended March 29, 2014, compared to $3,392 in the three months ended March 30, 2013.
	The following is a schedule of future minimum rental payments under operating leases at March 29, 2014:
	For the nine months ending December 27, 2014	$	13,802
	For the fiscal years ending:
	2015	21,808
	2016	21,719
	2017	21,313
	2018	27,807
	Thereafter	285,993
		$	392,442
	The Company leases 15 of its retail store sites. Certain of these leases include tenant allowances that are amortized over the life of the lease. The Company received no tenant allowances in the three months ended March 29, 2014, but received $4,200 in tenant allowances during the three months ended March 30, 2013. The Company expects to receive $3,500 in tenant allowances under leases during 2014. Certain leases require the Company to pay contingent rental amounts based on a percentage of sales, in addition to real estate taxes, insurance, maintenance, and other operating expenses associated with the leased premises. These leases have terms which include renewal options ranging from 10 to 70 years.
	The Company has entered into real estate purchase, construction, and/or economic incentive agreements for various new retail store site locations. At March 29, 2014, the Company estimated it had total cash commitments of approximately $478,400 outstanding for projected expenditures related to the development, construction, and completion of new retail stores and a new distribution center. This amount excludes any estimated costs associated with new stores where the Company does not have a commitment as of March 29, 2014. We expect to fund these estimated capital expenditures over the next 12 months with cash generated from operations and borrowings.
	Under various grant programs, state or local governments provide funding for certain costs associated with developing and opening a new retail store. The Company generally receives grant funding in exchange for commitments, such as assurance of agreed employment and wage levels at the retail store or that the retail store will remain open, made by the Company to the state or local government providing the funding. The commitments typically phase out over approximately five to 10 years. If the Company failed to maintain the commitments during the applicable period, the funds received may have to be repaid or other adverse consequences may arise, which could affect the Company's cash flows and profitability. At March 29, 2014, the total amount of grant funding subject to a specific contractual remedy was $44,465. No grant funding was received in the three months ended March 29, 2014. At March 29, 2014, December 28, 2013, and March 30, 2013, the amount the Company had recorded in liabilities in the condensed consolidated balance sheets relating to these grants was $23,240, $22,536, and $6,999, respectively.
	The Company operates an open account document instructions program, which provides for Cabela's-issued letters of credit. We had obligations to pay participating vendors $77,795, $48,409, and $62,079 at March 29, 2014, December 28, 2013, and March 30, 2013, respectively.
	The Financial Services segment enters into financial instruments with off-balance sheet risk in the normal course of business through the origination of unsecured credit card loans. Unsecured credit card accounts are commitments to extend credit and totaled $25,529,000, $25,255,000, and $21,325,000 at March 29, 2014, December 28, 2013, and March 30, 2013, respectively. These commitments are in addition to any current outstanding balances of a cardholder. Unsecured credit card loans involve, to varying degrees, elements of credit risk in excess of the amount recognized in the condensed consolidated balance sheets. The principal amounts of these instruments reflect the Financial Services segment's maximum related exposure. The Financial Services segment has not experienced and does not anticipate that all customers will exercise the entire available line of credit at any given point in time. The Financial Services segment has the right to reduce or cancel the available lines of credit at any time.
	Visa Litigation Settlement – In June 2005, a number of entities, each purporting to represent a class of retail merchants, sued Visa and several member banks, and other credit card associations, alleging, among other things, that Visa and its member banks violated United States antitrust laws by conspiring to fix the level of interchange fees. In July 2012, the parties to this litigation entered into a settlement agreement to resolve the claims brought by the class members. On December 13, 2013, the settlement received final court approval. The settlement agreement required, among other things, (i) the distribution to class merchants of an amount equal to 10 basis points of default interchange across all credit rate categories for a period of eight consecutive months, which otherwise would have been paid to issuers like WFB, (ii) Visa to change its rules to allow merchants to charge a surcharge on credit card transactions subject to a cap, and (iii) Visa to meet with merchant buying groups that seek to negotiate interchange rates collectively. To date, WFB has not been named as a defendant in any credit card industry lawsuits. At March 29, 2014, the remaining liability balance for this settlement was $951 compared to $4,687 at December 28, 2013, and $12,500 at March 30, 2013.
	Litigation and Claims – The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business. These actions include commercial, intellectual property, employment, regulatory, and product liability claims. Some of these actions involve complex factual and legal issues and are subject to uncertainties. The activities of WFB are subject to complex federal and state laws and regulations. WFB's regulators are authorized to conduct compliance examinations and impose penalties for violations of these laws and regulations and, in some cases, to order WFB to pay restitution. For example, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation ("FDIC") conducted compliance examinations in 2009, 2011, and 2013 and found that certain practices of WFB were improper. As a result of these compliance examinations, the FDIC issued consent orders and WFB was required to take corrective action and pay restitution and civil money penalties. The Company cannot predict with assurance the outcome of the actions brought against it. Accordingly, adverse developments, settlements, or resolutions may occur and have a material effect on the Company's results of operations for the period in which such development, settlement, or resolution occurs. However, the Company does not believe that the outcome of any current legal proceedings would have a material effect on its results of operations, cash flows, or financial position taken as a whole.
	On January 6, 2011, the Company received a Commissioner's charge from the Chair of the U. S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission ("EEOC") alleging that the Company has discriminated against non-Whites on the basis of their race and national origin in recruitment and hiring. Although the Company disputes these allegations, the Company recently entered into preliminary settlement negotiations with the EEOC to resolve this matter. At the present time, the Company believes that it is probable that it will incur a loss related to the EEOC matter, but given the early stage of the settlement negotiations, the lack of any specific monetary demand from the EEOC, and the ongoing nature and complexity of this matter, the Company cannot reasonably estimate any loss or range of loss that may arise from this matter. Accordingly, the Company has not accrued a liability related to the EEOC matter. Although the Company does not presently believe that the EEOC matter will have a material adverse effect on its business, given the inherent uncertainties in this situation, the Company can provide no assurance that this matter will not be material to its business in the future.

StockBased_Compensation_Plans_

Stock-Based Compensation Plans and Employee Benefit Plans	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
Stock Award Plans [Abstract]	'
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block]	'
	STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION PLANS AND EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS
	Stock-Based Compensation – The Company recognized total stock-based compensation expense of $4,064 for the three months ended March 29, 2014, and $3,493 in the three months ended March 30, 2013. Compensation expense related to the Company's stock-based payment awards is recognized in selling, distribution, and administrative expenses in the condensed consolidated statements of income. At March 29, 2014, the total unrecognized deferred stock-based compensation balance for all equity awards issued, net of expected forfeitures, was $35,629, net of tax, which is expected to be amortized over a weighted average period of 3.25 years.
	2013 Stock Plan – The Cabela's Incorporated 2013 Stock Plan (the "2013 Stock Plan"), which replaced the Company's 2004 Stock Plan, provides for the grant of incentive stock options, non-statutory stock options ("NSOs"), stock appreciation rights, performance stock, performance units, restricted stock, and restricted stock units to employees and consultants. Non-employee directors are eligible to receive any type of award offered under the 2013 Stock Plan except incentive stock options. Awards granted under the 2013 Stock Plan have a term of no greater than ten years from the grant date and become exercisable under the vesting schedule determined at the time of grant. As of March 29, 2014, the maximum number of shares available for awards under the 2013 Stock Plan was 3,345,770.
	As of March 29, 2014, there were 2,835,494 awards outstanding under the 2004 Stock Plan and 654,230 awards outstanding under the 2013 Stock Plan. To the extent available, we will issue treasury shares for the exercise of stock options before issuing new shares.
	Option Awards – On February 3, 2014, the Company granted 5,000 NSOs to a non-employee director at an exercise price of $63.60 per share. These options have an eight-year term and vest over one year. During the three months ended March 29, 2014, there were 194,905 NSOs granted to employees at an exercise price of $66.32 per share. These options have an eight-year term and vest over four years. In addition, on March 2, 2014, the Company also issued 64,000 premium-priced NSOs to its President and Chief Executive Officer at an exercise price of $76.27 (which was equal to 115% of the closing price of the Company's common stock on the New York Stock Exchange on February 28, 2014). The premium-priced NSOs vest in three equal annual installments beginning on March 2, 2017, and expire on March 2, 2022.
	During the three months ended March 29, 2014, there were 210,523 options exercised. The aggregate intrinsic value of awards exercised was $14,121 and $8,104 during the three months ended March 29, 2014, and March 30, 2013, respectively. Based on the Company's closing stock price of $65.06 at March 29, 2014, the total number of in-the-money awards exercisable as of March 29, 2014, was 1,950,740.
	Nonvested Stock and Stock Unit Awards – During the three months ended March 29, 2014, the Company issued 289,855 units of nonvested stock to employees at a fair value of $66.32 per unit. These nonvested stock units vest evenly over four years on the grant date anniversary based on the passage of time. On March 2, 2014, the Company also issued 51,050 units of performance-based restricted stock units to certain executives at a fair value of $66.32 per unit. These performance-based restricted stock units will begin vesting in four equal annual installments on March 2, 2015, if the performance criteria are achieved.
	Employee Stock Purchase Plan – During the three months ended March 29, 2014, there were 16,928 shares issued under the Cabela's Incorporated 2013 Employee Stock Purchase Plan (the "2013 ESPP"). As of March 29, 2014, there were 1,953,257 shares of common stock authorized and available for issuance under the 2013 ESPP.

Stockholders_Equity_and_Divide

Stockholders' Equity and Dividend Restrictions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
Shareholders' Equity and Dividend Restrictions [Abstract]	'
Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY AND DIVIDEND RESTRICTIONS
	Retained Earnings – The most significant restrictions on the payment of dividends are contained within the covenants under the Company's revolving credit and unsecured senior notes purchase agreements. Also, Nebraska banking laws govern the amount of dividends that WFB can pay to Cabela's. At March 29, 2014, the Company had unrestricted retained earnings of $229,377 available for dividends. However, the Company has never declared or paid any cash dividends on its common stock, and does not anticipate paying any cash dividends in the foreseeable future.
	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) – The components of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of related taxes, are as follows for the periods ended:
		March 29,				December 28,			March 30,
		2014				2013			2013
	Accumulated net unrealized holding gains on economic development bonds	$	6,529			$	4,682		$	7,508
	Cumulative foreign currency translation adjustments	(10,023		)		(6,406		)	(1,526		)
	Total accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	$	(3,494	)		$	(1,724	)	$	5,982
	Treasury Stock – The Company announced on February 13, 2014, its intent to repurchase up to 650,000 shares of its common stock in open market transactions through February 2015. There is no guarantee as to the exact number of shares that we will repurchase. During the three months ended March 29, 2014, there were no shares repurchased. There were 650,000 shares remaining to be purchased at March 29, 2014, under the February 2014 repurchase program.
	The following table reconciles the Company's treasury stock activity for the periods presented.
		Three Months Ended
		March 29, 2014			March 30, 2013
	Balance, beginning of period	—			492,414
	Purchase of treasury stock at a cost	—			72,200
	Treasury shares issued on exercise of stock options and share-based payment awards	—			(513,119	)
	Balance, end of period	—			51,495

Earnings_Per_Share

Earnings Per Share	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'
Earnings Per Share [Text Block]	'
	EARNINGS PER SHARE
	The following table reconciles the weighted average number of shares utilized in the earnings per share calculations for the periods presented.
		Three Months Ended
		March 29,	March 30,
		2014	2013
	Common shares – basic	70,766,568	70,157,744
	Effect of incremental dilutive securities:
	Stock options, nonvested stock units, and employee stock purchase plans	991,465	1,215,080
	Common shares – diluted	71,758,033	71,372,824
	Stock options outstanding and nonvested stock units issued considered anti-dilutive excluded from calculation	650,780	—

Supplemental_Cash_Flow_Informa

Supplemental Cash Flow Information	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]	'
Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Text Block]	'
	SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION
	The following table sets forth non-cash financing and investing activities and other cash flow information for the three months ended:
		March 29,			March 30,
		2014			2013
	Non-cash financing and investing activities:
	Accrued property and equipment additions (1)	$	31,021		$	28,516
	Depreciation adjustment reducing deferred grant income	(831		)	—
	Other cash flow information:
	Interest paid (2)	$	22,463		$	18,106
	Capitalized interest	(2,190		)	(748		)
	Interest paid, net of capitalized interest	$	20,273		$	17,358
	Income taxes paid, net of refunds	$	14,046		$	8,851
	-1	Accrued property and equipment additions are recognized in the condensed consolidated statements of cash flows in the period they are paid.
	-2	Includes interest from the Financial Services segment totaling $16,001 and $13,344, respectively.

Segment_Reporting

Segment Reporting	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]	'
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	SEGMENT REPORTING
	The Company has three reportable segments: Retail, Direct, and Financial Services. The Retail segment sells products and services through the Company's retail stores. The Direct segment sells products through our e-commerce websites (Cabelas.com and Cabelas.ca) and direct mail catalogs. The Financial Services segment issues co-branded credit cards. Revenues included in Corporate Overhead and Other are primarily made up of amounts received from outfitter services, real estate rental income, land sales, and fees earned through the Company's travel business and other complementary business services. Operating costs by segment consist primarily of:
	•	labor, advertising, depreciation, and retail store related occupancy costs for the Retail segment;
	•	direct marketing costs (e-commerce advertising and catalog costs) and order processing costs for the Direct segment;
	•	advertising and promotion, license fees, third party services for processing credit card transactions, employee compensation and benefits, and other general and administrative costs for the Financial Services segment; and
	•	unallocated shared-service costs, operations of various ancillary subsidiaries such as real estate development and travel, and segment eliminations for the Corporate Overhead and Other segment. Unallocated shared-service costs include receiving, distribution, and storage costs of inventory, merchandising, and quality assurance costs, as well as corporate headquarters occupancy costs.
	Segment assets are those directly used in or clearly allocable to an operating segment’s operations. Major assets by segment include:
	•	Retail segment – inventory in the retail stores, land, buildings, fixtures, and leasehold improvements, and goodwill. The balance of goodwill in the Retail segment totaled $3,184, $3,295, and $3,455 at March 29, 2014, December 28, 2013, and March 30, 2013, respectively. The change in the carrying value of goodwill between periods was due to foreign currency adjustments.
	•	Direct segment – fixed assets and deferred catalog costs.
	•	Financial Services segment – cash, credit card loans, restricted cash, receivables, fixtures, and other assets. Cash and cash equivalents of the Financial Services segment were $421,575, $94,112, and $281,705 at March 29, 2014, December 28, 2013, and March 30, 2013, respectively.
	•	Corporate Overhead and Other segment – corporate headquarters and facilities, merchandise distribution inventory, shared technology infrastructure and related information technology systems, corporate cash and cash equivalents, economic development bonds, prepaid expenses, deferred income taxes, and other corporate long-lived assets.
	Depreciation, amortization, and property and equipment expenditures are recognized in each respective segment. Intercompany revenue between segments was eliminated in consolidation.
	Under an Intercompany Agreement, the Financial Services segment pays to the Retail and Direct segments a fixed license fee equal to 70 basis points on all originated charge volume of the Cabela's CLUB Visa credit card portfolio. In addition, among other items, the agreement requires the Financial Services segment to reimburse the Retail and Direct segments for certain operating and promotional costs.
	Financial information by segment is presented in the following tables for the periods presented:
													Corporate Overhead and Other
										Financial Services
		Retail				Direct											Total
	Three Months Ended March 29, 2014:
	Merchandise sales	$	440,781			$	179,416			$	—		$	—			$	620,197
	Non-merchandise revenue:
	Financial Services	—				—				98,578			—				98,578
	Other	168				—				—			6,880				7,048
	Total revenue	$	440,949			$	179,416			$	98,578		$	6,880			$	725,823
	Operating income (loss)	$	52,298			$	33,130			$	33,102		$	(77,677	)		$	40,853
	Operating income as a percentage of revenue	11.9		%		18.5		%		33.6		%	N/A				5.6		%
	Depreciation and amortization	$	15,215			$	1,230			$	380		$	9,248			$	26,073
	Assets	1,423,827				175,717				4,215,139			803,943				6,618,626
	Property and equipment additions including accrued amounts	82,586				68				327			21,789				104,770
	Three Months Ended March 30, 2013:
	Merchandise sales	$	486,555			$	225,158			$	—		$	—			$	711,713
	Non-merchandise revenue:
	Financial Services	—				—				85,772			—				85,772
	Other	194				—				—			4,818				5,012
	Total Revenue	$	486,749			$	225,158			$	85,772		$	4,818			$	802,497
	Operating income (loss)	$	84,678			$	44,897			$	24,101		$	(74,561	)		$	79,115
	Operating income as a percentage of revenue	17.4		%		19.9		%		28.1		%	N/A				9.9		%
	Depreciation and amortization	$	12,353			$	1,888			$	374		$	6,477			$	21,092
	Assets	1,110,761				153,407				3,760,562			735,507				5,760,237
	Property and equipment additions including accrued amounts	62,008				33				214			11,232				73,487
	The components and amounts of total revenue for the Financial Services segment were as follows for the periods presented:
		Three Months Ended:
		March 29,				March 30,
		2014				2013
	Interest and fee income	$	94,219			$	81,249
	Interest expense	(15,886		)		(13,851		)
	Provision for loan losses	(12,714		)		(12,775		)
	Net interest income, net of provision for loan losses	65,619				54,623
	Non-interest income:
	Interchange income	82,427				77,630
	Other non-interest income	755				1,283
	Total non-interest income	83,182				78,913
	Less: Customer rewards costs	(50,223		)		(47,764		)
	Financial Services revenue	$	98,578			$	85,772
	The following table sets forth the percentage of our merchandise revenue contributed by major product categories for our Retail and Direct segments and in total for the three months ended March 29, 2014, and March 30, 2013.
		Retail						Direct					Total
		2014			2013			2014			2013		2014			2013
	Product Category:
	Hunting Equipment	52.3	%		60.2	%		39.3	%		47.7	%	48.6	%		56.3	%
	General Outdoors	27.2			22.5			32.3			27.2		28.7			24
	Clothing and Footwear	20.5			17.3			28.4			25.1		22.7			19.7
	Total	100	%		100	%		100	%		100	%	100	%		100	%

Fair_Value_Measurements

Fair Value Measurements	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
Fair Value Measurements [Abstract]	'
Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block]	'
	FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
	Financial instrument assets and liabilities measured and reported at fair value are classified and disclosed in one of the following categories:
	•	Level 1 – Quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
	•	Level 2 – Observable inputs other than quoted market prices.
	•	Level 3 – Unobservable inputs corroborated by little, if any, market data.
	Level 3 is comprised of financial instruments whose fair value is estimated based on internally developed models or methodologies utilizing significant inputs that are primarily unobservable from objective sources. At March 29, 2014, the financial instruments carried on our condensed consolidated balance sheets subject to fair value measurements consisted of economic development bonds and were classified as Level 3 for valuation purposes. For the three months ended March 29, 2014, and March 30, 2013, there were no transfers in or out of Levels 1, 2, or 3.
	The Company's recurring financial instruments classified as Level 3 for valuation purposes consists of economic development bonds. The table below presents changes in fair value of the economic development bonds measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) for the periods presented:
		Three Months Ended
		March 29,			March 30,
		2014			2013
	Balance, beginning of period	$	78,504		$	85,041
	Total gains or losses:
	Included in earnings - realized	—			—
	Included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) - unrealized	2,950			1,087
	Valuation adjustments	—			—
	Purchases, issuances, and settlements:
	Purchases	—			—
	Issuances	—			—
	Settlements	(1,398		)	(1,665		)
	Total	(1,398		)	(1,665		)
	Balance, end of period	$	80,056		$	84,463
	Fair values of the Company's economic development bonds were estimated using discounted cash flow projection estimates. These estimates are based on available market interest rates and the estimated amounts and timing of expected future payments to be received from municipalities under tax development zones, which we consider to be unobservable inputs (Level 3). These fair values do not reflect any premium or discount that could result from offering these bonds for sale or through early redemption, or any related income tax impact. Declines in the fair value of available-for-sale economic development bonds below cost that are deemed to be other than temporary are reflected in earnings. For the three months ended March 29, 2014, and March 30, 2013, there were no other than temporary fair value adjustments of economic development bonds and no adjustments of deferred grant income related to economic development bonds.
	At March 29, 2014, the Company identified one economic development bond with a carrying value of $8,019 where the actual tax revenues associated with the properties were lower than previously projected. We will continue to closely monitor the amounts and timing of projected cash flows from the properties related to this economic development bond. However, if the subject properties do not generate sufficient tax revenue, the Company may not receive all anticipated payments which may result in the Company being unable to realize the bond's full carrying value, which would result in a corresponding decrease to deferred grant income.
	We evaluate the recoverability of property and equipment, other property, and goodwill and intangibles whenever indicators of impairment exist using significant unobservable inputs. This evaluation included existing store locations and future retail store sites.
	On February 4, 2014, a U. S. district court (the "Court") entered a judgment against the Company in the amount of $13,625 relating to litigation regarding a breach of a retail store radius restriction. At December 28, 2013, pursuant to this judgment, the Company recognized a liability of $14,125, including an estimated amount for legal fees and costs, in its consolidated balance sheet. The Company is currently in the process of appealing the Court's ruling. On March 21, 2014, through a supplemental judgment, the Court ordered that the Company pay interest in the amount of $1,062 to the plaintiff. Therefore, at March 29, 2014, our liability relating to this judgment totaled $15,707, which included an additional amount for estimated legal fees and costs. The increase to this liability at March 29, 2014, resulted in the Company recording an increase to the carrying amount of the related retail store property through a reduction in deferred grant income by the additional amounts accrued, plus legal and other costs. The additional depreciation adjustment that reduced the deferred grant income of this retail store property at March 29, 2014, resulted in an increase in depreciation expense of $831 in the three months ended March 29, 2014. This increase in depreciation expense was included in selling, distribution, and administrative expenses in the condensed consolidated statements of income and was recorded to the Retail segment. There was no depreciation expense adjustment recognized in the three months ended March 30, 2013.
	Local economic trends, government regulations, and other restrictions where we own properties may impact management projections that could change undiscounted cash flows in future periods which could trigger possible future write downs.
	The carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, restricted cash, accounts payable, gift instruments (including credit card and loyalty rewards programs), accrued expenses, and income taxes receivable and payable included in the condensed consolidated balance sheets approximate fair value given the short-term nature of these financial instruments. The secured variable funding obligations of the Trust, which include variable rates of interest that adjust daily, can fluctuate daily based on the short-term operational needs of the Financial Services segment with advances and pay downs at par value. Therefore, the carrying value of the secured variable funding obligations of the Trust approximates fair value.
	The table below presents the estimated fair values of the Company's financial instruments that are not carried at fair value on our condensed consolidated balance sheets at the periods indicated. The fair values of all financial instruments listed below were estimated based on internally developed models or methodologies utilizing observable inputs (Level 2).
		March 29, 2014						December 28, 2013				March 30, 2013
		Carrying Value			Estimated Fair Value			Carrying Value		Estimated Fair Value		Carrying Value		Estimated Fair Value
	Financial Assets:
	Credit card loans, net	$	3,698,529		$	3,698,529		$	3,938,630	$	3,938,630	$	3,334,619	$	3,334,619
	Financial Liabilities:
	Time deposits	940,141			940,058			1,069,362		1,070,831		969,367		1,032,132
	Secured long-term obligations of the Trust	2,707,250			2,666,427			2,452,250		2,405,494		2,154,750		2,094,968
	Long-term debt	549,009			586,356			331,065		363,848		328,329		361,648
	Credit Card Loans. Credit card loans are originated with variable rates of interest that adjust with changing market interest rates, so the carrying value of the credit card loans, including the carrying value of deferred credit card origination costs, less the allowance for loan losses, approximates fair value. This valuation does not include the value that relates to estimated cash flows generated from new loans over the life of the cardholder relationship. Accordingly, the aggregate fair value of the credit card loans does not represent the underlying value of the established cardholder relationship.
	Time Deposits. Time deposits are pooled in homogeneous groups, and the future cash flows of those groups are discounted using current market rates offered for similar products for purposes of estimating fair value. For all periods presented, we have consistently applied our discounting methodologies to estimated future cash flows in determining estimated fair value for time deposits.
	Secured Long-Term Obligations of the Trust. The estimated fair value of secured long-term obligations of the Trust is based on future cash flows associated with each type of debt discounted using current borrowing rates for similar types of debt of comparable maturity. For all periods presented, we have consistently applied our discounting methodologies to estimated future cash flows in determining estimated fair value for secured long-term obligations of the Trust.
	Long-Term Debt. The estimated fair value of long-term debt is based on future cash flows associated with each type of debt discounted using current borrowing rates for similar types of debt of comparable maturity. For all periods presented, we have consistently applied our discounting methodologies to estimated future cash flows in determining estimated fair value for long-term debt.

Cabelas_Master_Credit_Card_Tru1

Cabela's Master Credit Card Trust (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
Consolidated Assets and Liabilities of the Trust [Abstract]	'
Consolidated Assets and Liabilities of the Trust [Table Text Block]	'
	The following table presents the components of the consolidated assets and liabilities of the Trust at the periods ended:
		March 29,		December 28,		March 30,
		2014		2013		2013
	Consolidated assets:
	Restricted credit card loans, net of allowance of $50,840, $52,820, and $64,440	$	3,675,282	$	3,903,410	$	3,310,663
	Restricted cash	24,609		23,191		19,401
	Total	$	3,699,891	$	3,926,601	$	3,330,064
	Consolidated liabilities:
	Secured variable funding obligations	$	—	$	50,000	$	—
	Secured long-term obligations	2,707,250		2,452,250		2,154,750
	Interest due to third party investors	1,898		1,904		1,978
	Total	$	2,709,148	$	2,504,154	$	2,156,728

Credit_Card_Loans_and_Allowanc1

Credit Card Loans and Allowance For Loan Losses Credit Card Loans (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
Credit Card Loans [Abstract]	'
Credit Card Loans [Table Text Block]	'
	The following table reflects the composition of the credit card loans at the periods ended:
		March 29,			December 28,			March 30,
		2014			2013			2013
	Restricted credit card loans of the Trust (restricted for repayment of secured obligations of the Trust)	$	3,726,122		$	3,956,230		$	3,375,103
	Unrestricted credit card loans	18,379			29,619			19,006
	Total credit card loans	3,744,501			3,985,849			3,394,109
	Allowance for loan losses	(51,010		)	(53,110		)	(64,700		)
	Deferred credit card origination costs	5,038			5,891			5,210
	Credit card loans, net	$	3,698,529		$	3,938,630		$	3,334,619
Allowance for Credit Losses on Financing Receivables [Table Text Block]	'
	The following table reflects the activity in the allowance for loan losses by credit card segment for the periods presented:
		Three Months Ended
		29-Mar-14									30-Mar-13
		Credit Card Loans			Restructured Credit Card Loans			Total Credit Card Loans			Credit Card Loans			Restructured Credit Card Loans			Total Credit Card Loans
	Balance, beginning of period	$	44,660		$	8,450		$	53,110		$	42,600		$	23,000		$	65,600
	Provision for loan losses	9,967			2,747			12,714			12,688			87			12,775
	Charge-offs	(15,911		)	(4,054		)	(19,965		)	(15,008		)	(3,292		)	(18,300		)
	Recoveries	4,074			1,077			5,151			3,420			1,205			4,625
	Net charge-offs	(11,837		)	(2,977		)	(14,814		)	(11,588		)	(2,087		)	(13,675		)
	Balance, end of period	$	42,790		$	8,220		$	51,010		$	43,700		$	21,000		$	64,700
Financing Receivable Credit Quality Indicators [Table Text Block]	'
	The table below provides information on current, non-accrual, past due, and restructured credit card loans by class using the respective quarter FICO score at the periods ended:
	March 29, 2014:	FICO Score of Credit Card Loans Segment									Restructured Credit Card Loans Segment (1)
		691 and Below			692 - 758			759 and Above						Total
	Credit card loan status:
	Current	$	541,421		$	1,244,910		$	1,862,740		$	34,033		$	3,683,104
	1 to 29 days past due	15,686			9,828			9,021			3,080			37,615
	30 to 59 days past due	6,396			1,112			514			1,603			9,625
	60 or more days past due	11,212			154			22			2,769			14,157
	Total past due	33,294			11,094			9,557			7,452			61,397
	Total credit card loans	$	574,715		$	1,256,004		$	1,872,297		$	41,485		$	3,744,501
	90 days or more past due and still accruing	$	6,075		$	12		$	2		$	1,115		$	7,204
	Non-accrual	—			—			—			5,431			5,431
	December 28, 2013:	FICO Score of Credit Card Loans Segment									Restructured Credit Card Loans Segment (1)
		691 and Below			692 - 758			759 and Above						Total
	Credit card loan status:
	Current	$	527,202		$	1,299,982		$	2,047,424		$	34,444		$	3,909,052
	1 to 29 days past due	20,702			13,421			12,953			3,962			51,038
	30 to 59 days past due	7,013			1,229			296			1,641			10,179
	60 or more days past due	12,445			184			31			2,920			15,580
	Total past due	40,160			14,834			13,280			8,523			76,797
	Total credit card loans	$	567,362		$	1,314,816		$	2,060,704		$	42,967		$	3,985,849
	90 days or more past due and still accruing	$	6,637		$	36		$	17		$	1,381		$	8,071
	Non-accrual	—			—			—			5,381			5,381
	March 30, 2013:	FICO Score of Credit Card Loans Segment									Restructured Credit Card Loans Segment (1)
		691 and Below			692 - 758			759 and Above						Total
	Credit card loan status:
	Current	$	468,960		$	1,116,527		$	1,706,368		$	42,705		$	3,334,560
	1 to 29 days past due	14,556			9,253			8,700			3,754			36,263
	30 to 59 days past due	6,198			991			202			1,683			9,074
	60 or more days past due	11,001			151			14			3,046			14,212
	Total past due	31,755			10,395			8,916			8,483			59,549
	Total credit card loans	$	500,715		$	1,126,922		$	1,715,284		$	51,188		$	3,394,109
	90 days or more past due and still accruing	$	5,862		$	22		$	4		$	1,370		$	7,258
	Non-accrual	—			—			—			6,052			6,052
	-1	Specific allowance for loan losses of $8,220 at March 29, 2014, $8,450 at December 28, 2013, and $21,000 at March 30, 2013, are included in allowance for loan losses.

Securities_Tables

Securities (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
Securities [Abstract]	'
Available-for-sale Securities [Table Text Block]	'
	consisted of the following at the periods ended:
		Amortized Cost		Gross Unrealized Gains		Gross Unrealized Losses			Fair Value
	29-Mar-14	$	69,674	$	10,382	$	—		$	80,056
	28-Dec-13	$	71,072	$	7,432	$	—		$	78,504
	30-Mar-13	$	72,880	$	11,765	$	(182	)	$	84,463
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities Reconciliation [Table Text Block]	'
	The carrying value and fair value of these securities classified by estimated maturity based on expected future cash flows at March 29, 2014, were as follows:
		Amortized Cost		Fair Value
	For the nine months ending December 27, 2014	$	1,932	$	2,400
	For the fiscal years ending:
	2015	2,244		2,792
	2016	2,690		3,292
	2017	2,617		3,161
	2018	3,074		3,660
	2019 - 2023	23,069		26,877
	2024 and thereafter	34,048		37,874
	Totals	$	69,674	$	80,056

Borrowings_of_Financial_Servic1

Borrowings of Financial Services Segment (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
Borrowings of the Financial Services Segment [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Assets and Associated Liabilities Accounted for as Secured Borrowings [Table Text Block]	'
	March 29, 2014:
	Series	Expected	Fixed Rate Obligations		Interest Rate		Variable Rate Obligations			Interest Rate		Total Obligations			Interest Rate
		Maturity Date
	Series 2010-I	Jan-15	$	—	—	%	$	255,000		1.61	%	$	255,000		1.61	%
	Series 2010-II	Sep-15	127,500		2.29		85,000			0.86		212,500			1.72
	Series 2011-II	Jun-16	155,000		2.39		100,000			0.76		255,000			1.75
	Series 2011-IV	Oct-16	165,000		1.9		90,000			0.71		255,000			1.48
	Series 2012-I	Feb-17	275,000		1.63		150,000			0.69		425,000			1.3
	Series 2012-II	Jun-17	300,000		1.45		125,000			0.64		425,000			1.21
	Series 2013-I	Feb-23	327,250		2.71		—			—		327,250			2.71
	Series 2013-II	Aug-18	100,000		2.17		197,500			0.81		297,500			1.26
	Series 2014-I	Mar-17	—		—		255,000			0.53		255,000			0.53
	Secured long-term obligations of the Trust		1,449,750				1,257,500					2,707,250
	Less current maturities		—				(255,000		)			(255,000		)
	Secured long-term obligations of the Trust, less current maturities		$	1,449,750			$	1,002,500				$	2,452,250
	December 28, 2013:
	Series	Expected	Fixed Rate Obligations		Interest Rate		Variable Rate Obligations			Interest Rate		Total Obligations			Interest Rate
		Maturity Date
	Series 2010-I	Jan-15	$	—	—	%	$	255,000		1.62	%	$	255,000		1.62	%
	Series 2010-II	Sep-15	127,500		2.29		85,000			0.87		212,500			1.72
	Series 2011-II	Jun-16	155,000		2.39		100,000			0.77		255,000			1.75
	Series 2011-IV	Oct-16	165,000		1.9		90,000			0.72		255,000			1.48
	Series 2012-I	Feb-17	275,000		1.63		150,000			0.7		425,000			1.3
	Series 2012-II	Jun-17	300,000		1.45		125,000			0.65		425,000			1.21
	Series 2013-I	Feb-23	327,250		2.71		—			—		327,250			2.71
	Series 2013-II	Aug-18	100,000		2.17		197,500			0.82		297,500			1.27
	Secured long-term obligations of the Trust		$	1,449,750			$	1,002,500				$	2,452,250
	March 30, 2013:
	Series	Expected	Fixed Rate Obligations		Interest Rate		Variable Rate Obligations			Interest Rate		Total Obligations			Interest Rate
		Maturity Date
	Series 2010-I	Jan-15	$	—	—	%	$	255,000		1.65	%	$	255,000		1.65	%
	Series 2010-II	Sep-15	127,500		2.29		85,000			0.9		212,500			1.74
	Series 2011-II	Jun-16	155,000		2.39		100,000			0.8		255,000			1.77
	Series 2011-IV	Oct-16	165,000		1.9		90,000			0.75		255,000			1.5
	Series 2012-I	Feb-17	275,000		1.63		150,000			0.73		425,000			1.31
	Series 2012-II	Jun-17	300,000		1.45		125,000			0.68		425,000			1.22
	Series 2013-I	Feb-23	327,250		2.71		—			—		327,250			2.71
	Secured long-term obligations of the Trust		$	1,349,750			$	805,000				$	2,154,750

LongTerm_Debt_and_Capital_Leas1

Long-Term Debt and Capital Leases (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'
Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block]	'
	Long-term debt, including revolving credit facilities and capital leases, consisted of the following at the periods ended:
		March 29,			December 28,			March 30,
		2014			2013			2013
	Unsecured $415 million revolving credit facility	$	229,086		$	2,932		$	—
	Unsecured notes due 2016 with interest at 5.99%	215,000			215,000			215,000
	Unsecured senior notes due 2017 with interest at 6.08%	60,000			60,000			60,000
	Unsecured senior notes due 2015-2018 with interest at 7.20%	32,572			40,714			40,714
	Unsecured $20 million Canadian revolving credit facility	—			—			—
	Capital lease obligations payable through 2036	12,351			12,419			12,615
	Total debt	549,009			331,065			328,329
	Less current portion of debt	(8,422		)	(8,418		)	(8,406		)
	Long-term debt, less current maturities	$	540,587		$	322,647		$	319,923

Income_Taxes_Tables

Income Taxes (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
Income Taxes [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block]	'
	A reconciliation of the statutory federal income tax rate to the effective income tax rate was as follows for the periods presented.
		Three Months Ended
		March 29,		March 30,
		2014		2013
	Statutory federal rate	35	%	35	%
	State income taxes, net of federal tax benefit	1.7		1.4
	Other nondeductible items	0.3		0.1
	Tax exempt interest income	(0.5	)	(0.4	)
	Rate differential on foreign income	(0.7	)	(2.3	)
	Change in unrecognized tax benefits	(1.4	)	0.4
	Other, net	—		(0.4	)
	Effective income tax rate	34.4	%	33.8	%

Commitments_and_Contingencies_

Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
Future Minimum Lease Payments [Line Items]	'
Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block]	'
	The following is a schedule of future minimum rental payments under operating leases at March 29, 2014:
	For the nine months ending December 27, 2014	$	13,802
	For the fiscal years ending:
	2015	21,808
	2016	21,719
	2017	21,313
	2018	27,807
	Thereafter	285,993
		$	392,442

Stockholders_Equity_and_Divide1

Stockholders' Equity and Dividend Restrictions (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract]	'
Treasury Stock Activity [Table Text Block]	'
	The following table reconciles the Company's treasury stock activity for the periods presented.
		Three Months Ended
		March 29, 2014			March 30, 2013
	Balance, beginning of period	—			492,414
	Purchase of treasury stock at a cost	—			72,200
	Treasury shares issued on exercise of stock options and share-based payment awards	—			(513,119	)
	Balance, end of period	—			51,495
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]	'
	The components of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of related taxes, are as follows for the periods ended:
		March 29,				December 28,			March 30,
		2014				2013			2013
	Accumulated net unrealized holding gains on economic development bonds	$	6,529			$	4,682		$	7,508
	Cumulative foreign currency translation adjustments	(10,023		)		(6,406		)	(1,526		)
	Total accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	$	(3,494	)		$	(1,724	)	$	5,982

Earnings_Per_Share_Tables

Earnings Per Share (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
Earnings Per Sharee [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block]	'
	The following table reconciles the weighted average number of shares utilized in the earnings per share calculations for the periods presented.
		Three Months Ended
		March 29,	March 30,
		2014	2013
	Common shares – basic	70,766,568	70,157,744
	Effect of incremental dilutive securities:
	Stock options, nonvested stock units, and employee stock purchase plans	991,465	1,215,080
	Common shares – diluted	71,758,033	71,372,824
	Stock options outstanding and nonvested stock units issued considered anti-dilutive excluded from calculation	650,780	—

Supplemental_Cash_Flow_Informa1

Supplemental Cash Flow Information (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Table Text Block]	'
	The following table sets forth non-cash financing and investing activities and other cash flow information for the three months ended:
		March 29,			March 30,
		2014			2013
	Non-cash financing and investing activities:
	Accrued property and equipment additions (1)	$	31,021		$	28,516
	Depreciation adjustment reducing deferred grant income	(831		)	—
	Other cash flow information:
	Interest paid (2)	$	22,463		$	18,106
	Capitalized interest	(2,190		)	(748		)
	Interest paid, net of capitalized interest	$	20,273		$	17,358
	Income taxes paid, net of refunds	$	14,046		$	8,851
	-1	Accrued property and equipment additions are recognized in the condensed consolidated statements of cash flows in the period they are paid.
	-2	Includes interest from the Financial Services segment totaling $16,001 and $13,344, respectively.

Segment_Reporting_Tables

Segment Reporting (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
Financial Information by Segment [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block]	'
	Financial information by segment is presented in the following tables for the periods presented:
													Corporate Overhead and Other
										Financial Services
		Retail				Direct											Total
	Three Months Ended March 29, 2014:
	Merchandise sales	$	440,781			$	179,416			$	—		$	—			$	620,197
	Non-merchandise revenue:
	Financial Services	—				—				98,578			—				98,578
	Other	168				—				—			6,880				7,048
	Total revenue	$	440,949			$	179,416			$	98,578		$	6,880			$	725,823
	Operating income (loss)	$	52,298			$	33,130			$	33,102		$	(77,677	)		$	40,853
	Operating income as a percentage of revenue	11.9		%		18.5		%		33.6		%	N/A				5.6		%
	Depreciation and amortization	$	15,215			$	1,230			$	380		$	9,248			$	26,073
	Assets	1,423,827				175,717				4,215,139			803,943				6,618,626
	Property and equipment additions including accrued amounts	82,586				68				327			21,789				104,770
	Three Months Ended March 30, 2013:
	Merchandise sales	$	486,555			$	225,158			$	—		$	—			$	711,713
	Non-merchandise revenue:
	Financial Services	—				—				85,772			—				85,772
	Other	194				—				—			4,818				5,012
	Total Revenue	$	486,749			$	225,158			$	85,772		$	4,818			$	802,497
	Operating income (loss)	$	84,678			$	44,897			$	24,101		$	(74,561	)		$	79,115
	Operating income as a percentage of revenue	17.4		%		19.9		%		28.1		%	N/A				9.9		%
	Depreciation and amortization	$	12,353			$	1,888			$	374		$	6,477			$	21,092
	Assets	1,110,761				153,407				3,760,562			735,507				5,760,237
	Property and equipment additions including accrued amounts	62,008				33				214			11,232				73,487
Revenue Components of Financial Services Segment [Table Text Block]	'
	The components and amounts of total revenue for the Financial Services segment were as follows for the periods presented:
		Three Months Ended:
		March 29,				March 30,
		2014				2013
	Interest and fee income	$	94,219			$	81,249
	Interest expense	(15,886		)		(13,851		)
	Provision for loan losses	(12,714		)		(12,775		)
	Net interest income, net of provision for loan losses	65,619				54,623
	Non-interest income:
	Interchange income	82,427				77,630
	Other non-interest income	755				1,283
	Total non-interest income	83,182				78,913
	Less: Customer rewards costs	(50,223		)		(47,764		)
	Financial Services revenue	$	98,578			$	85,772
Revenue from External Customers by Products and Services [Table Text Block]	'
		Retail						Direct					Total
		2014			2013			2014			2013		2014			2013
	Product Category:
	Hunting Equipment	52.3	%		60.2	%		39.3	%		47.7	%	48.6	%		56.3	%
	General Outdoors	27.2			22.5			32.3			27.2		28.7			24
	Clothing and Footwear	20.5			17.3			28.4			25.1		22.7			19.7
	Total	100	%		100	%		100	%		100	%	100	%		100	%

Fair_Value_Measurements_Tables

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014
Fair Value of Level 3 Assets and Liabilities [Abstract]	'
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block]	'
		March 29, 2014						December 28, 2013				March 30, 2013
		Carrying Value			Estimated Fair Value			Carrying Value		Estimated Fair Value		Carrying Value		Estimated Fair Value
	Financial Assets:
	Credit card loans, net	$	3,698,529		$	3,698,529		$	3,938,630	$	3,938,630	$	3,334,619	$	3,334,619
	Financial Liabilities:
	Time deposits	940,141			940,058			1,069,362		1,070,831		969,367		1,032,132
	Secured long-term obligations of the Trust	2,707,250			2,666,427			2,452,250		2,405,494		2,154,750		2,094,968
	Long-term debt	549,009			586,356			331,065		363,848		328,329		361,648
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block]	'
		Three Months Ended
		March 29,			March 30,
		2014			2013
	Balance, beginning of period	$	78,504		$	85,041
	Total gains or losses:
	Included in earnings - realized	—			—
	Included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) - unrealized	2,950			1,087
	Valuation adjustments	—			—
	Purchases, issuances, and settlements:
	Purchases	—			—
	Issuances	—			—
	Settlements	(1,398		)	(1,665		)
	Total	(1,398		)	(1,665		)
	Balance, end of period	$	80,056		$	84,463

Management_Representations_Det

Management Representations (Details) (USD $)	Mar. 29, 2014	Dec. 28, 2013	Mar. 30, 2013	Dec. 29, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value	$484,586	$199,072	$363,747	$288,750
Cash and Cash Equivalent at Subsidiary	$421,575	$94,112	$281,705	'

Cabelas_Master_Credit_Card_Tru2

Cabela's Master Credit Card Trust (Details) (USD $)	Mar. 29, 2014	Dec. 28, 2013	Mar. 30, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Consolidated assets: [Abstract]	'	'	'
Restricted credit card loans, net of allowance of $50,840, $52,820, and $64,440	$3,675,282	$3,903,410	$3,310,663
Restricted cash of the Trust	24,609	23,191	19,401
Total Consolidated Assets of the Trust	3,699,891	3,926,601	3,330,064
Allowance for loan losses	51,010	53,110	64,700
Consolidated liabilities: [Abstract]	'	'	'
Secured variable funding obligations	0	50,000	0
Secured long-term obligations	2,707,250	2,452,250	2,154,750
Interest due to third party investors	1,898	1,904	1,978
Total Consolidated liabilities of the Trust	2,709,148	2,504,154	2,156,728
Cabela's Master Credit Card Trust [Member]	'	'	'
Consolidated assets: [Abstract]	'	'	'
Allowance for loan losses	$50,840	$52,820	$64,440

Credit_Card_Loans_and_Allowanc2

Credit Card Loans and Allowance For Loan Losses (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 29, 2014	Mar. 30, 2013	Dec. 28, 2013	Dec. 29, 2012
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Provision for loan losses	$12,714	$12,775	'	'
Restricted credit card loans of the Trust (restricted for repayment of secured obligations of the Trust)	3,726,122	3,375,103	3,956,230	'
Unrestricted credit card loans	18,379	19,006	29,619	'
Credit Card Receivables	3,744,501	3,394,109	3,985,849	'
Allowance for loan losses	-51,010	-64,700	-53,110	'
Deferred credit card origination costs	5,038	5,210	5,891	'
Loans and Leases Receivable, Net Reported Amount	3,698,529	3,334,619	3,938,630	'
Provision for loan losses	12,714	12,775	'	'
Charge-offs	-19,965	-18,300	'	'
Recoveries	5,151	4,625	'	'
Net charge-offs	-14,814	-13,675	'	'
Balance, end of period	51,010	64,700	53,110	65,600
Loans and Leases Receivable, Consumer, Allowance	8,220	21,000	8,450	'
Current	'	'	'	'
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Credit Card Receivables	3,683,104	3,334,560	3,909,052	'
1 to 29 days past due	'	'	'	'
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Credit Card Receivables	37,615	36,263	51,038	'
30 to 59 days past due	'	'	'	'
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Credit Card Receivables	9,625	9,074	10,179	'
60 or more days past due	'	'	'	'
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Credit Card Receivables	14,157	14,212	15,580	'
Total past due	'	'	'	'
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Credit Card Receivables	61,397	59,549	76,797	'
90 days or more past due and still accruing	'	'	'	'
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Credit Card Receivables	7,204	7,258	8,071	'
Non-accrual	'	'	'	'
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Credit Card Receivables	5,431	6,052	5,381	'
Nonperforming Financing Receivable [Member]	'	'	'	'
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Provision for loan losses	2,747	87	'	'
Charge-offs	-4,054	-3,292	'	'
Recoveries	1,077	1,205	'	'
Net charge-offs	-2,977	-2,087	'	'
Balance, end of period	8,220	21,000	8,450	23,000
Performing Financing Receivable [Member]	'	'	'	'
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Provision for loan losses	9,967	12,688	'	'
Charge-offs	-15,911	-15,008	'	'
Recoveries	4,074	3,420	'	'
Net charge-offs	-11,837	-11,588	'	'
Balance, end of period	$42,790	$43,700	$44,660	$42,600

Credit_Card_Loans_and_Allowanc3

Credit Card Loans and Allowance For Loan Losses Schedule of Credit Card Balances by FICO score (Details) (USD $)	Mar. 29, 2014	Dec. 28, 2013	Mar. 30, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'	'	'
Credit Card Receivables	$3,744,501	$3,985,849	$3,394,109
Current [Member]	'	'	'
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'	'	'
Credit Card Receivables	3,683,104	3,909,052	3,334,560
Past Due, 29 Days or Less [Member]	'	'	'
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'	'	'
Credit Card Receivables	37,615	51,038	36,263
Past Due, 30-59 Days [Member]	'	'	'
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'	'	'
Credit Card Receivables	9,625	10,179	9,074
Past Due, 60 or More Days [Member]	'	'	'
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'	'	'
Credit Card Receivables	14,157	15,580	14,212
Total Past Due [Member]	'	'	'
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'	'	'
Credit Card Receivables	61,397	76,797	59,549
90 Days or More Past Due and Still Accruing [Member]	'	'	'
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'	'	'
Credit Card Receivables	7,204	8,071	7,258
Non-accrual [Member]	'	'	'
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'	'	'
Credit Card Receivables	5,431	5,381	6,052
FICO Score, 691 and Below [Member]	'	'	'
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'	'	'
Credit Card Receivables	574,715	567,362	500,715
FICO Score, 691 and Below [Member] | Current [Member]	'	'	'
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'	'	'
Credit Card Receivables	541,421	527,202	468,960
FICO Score, 691 and Below [Member] | Past Due, 29 Days or Less [Member]	'	'	'
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'	'	'
Credit Card Receivables	15,686	20,702	14,556
FICO Score, 691 and Below [Member] | Past Due, 30-59 Days [Member]	'	'	'
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'	'	'
Credit Card Receivables	6,396	7,013	6,198
FICO Score, 691 and Below [Member] | Past Due, 60 or More Days [Member]	'	'	'
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'	'	'
Credit Card Receivables	11,212	12,445	11,001
FICO Score, 691 and Below [Member] | Total Past Due [Member]	'	'	'
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'	'	'
Credit Card Receivables	33,294	40,160	31,755
FICO Score, 691 and Below [Member] | 90 Days or More Past Due and Still Accruing [Member]	'	'	'
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'	'	'
Credit Card Receivables	6,075	6,637	5,862
FICO Score, 691 and Below [Member] | Non-accrual [Member]	'	'	'
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'	'	'
Credit Card Receivables	0	0	0
FICO Score, 692-758 [Member]	'	'	'
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'	'	'
Credit Card Receivables	1,256,004	1,314,816	1,126,922
FICO Score, 692-758 [Member] | Current [Member]	'	'	'
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'	'	'
Credit Card Receivables	1,244,910	1,299,982	1,116,527
FICO Score, 692-758 [Member] | Past Due, 29 Days or Less [Member]	'	'	'
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'	'	'
Credit Card Receivables	9,828	13,421	9,253
FICO Score, 692-758 [Member] | Past Due, 30-59 Days [Member]	'	'	'
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'	'	'
Credit Card Receivables	1,112	1,229	991
FICO Score, 692-758 [Member] | Past Due, 60 or More Days [Member]	'	'	'
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'	'	'
Credit Card Receivables	154	184	151
FICO Score, 692-758 [Member] | Total Past Due [Member]	'	'	'
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'	'	'
Credit Card Receivables	11,094	14,834	10,395
FICO Score, 692-758 [Member] | 90 Days or More Past Due and Still Accruing [Member]	'	'	'
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'	'	'
Credit Card Receivables	12	36	22
FICO Score, 692-758 [Member] | Non-accrual [Member]	'	'	'
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'	'	'
Credit Card Receivables	0	0	0
FICO Score, 759 and Above [Member]	'	'	'
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'	'	'
Credit Card Receivables	1,872,297	2,060,704	1,715,284
FICO Score, 759 and Above [Member] | Current [Member]	'	'	'
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'	'	'
Credit Card Receivables	1,862,740	2,047,424	1,706,368
FICO Score, 759 and Above [Member] | Past Due, 29 Days or Less [Member]	'	'	'
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'	'	'
Credit Card Receivables	9,021	12,953	8,700
FICO Score, 759 and Above [Member] | Past Due, 30-59 Days [Member]	'	'	'
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'	'	'
Credit Card Receivables	514	296	202
FICO Score, 759 and Above [Member] | Past Due, 60 or More Days [Member]	'	'	'
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'	'	'
Credit Card Receivables	22	31	14
FICO Score, 759 and Above [Member] | Total Past Due [Member]	'	'	'
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'	'	'
Credit Card Receivables	9,557	13,280	8,916
FICO Score, 759 and Above [Member] | 90 Days or More Past Due and Still Accruing [Member]	'	'	'
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'	'	'
Credit Card Receivables	2	17	4
FICO Score, 759 and Above [Member] | Non-accrual [Member]	'	'	'
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'	'	'
Credit Card Receivables	0	0	0
Restructured Credit Card Loans [Member]	'	'	'
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'	'	'
Credit Card Receivables	41,485	42,967	51,188
Restructured Credit Card Loans [Member] | Current [Member]	'	'	'
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'	'	'
Credit Card Receivables	34,033	34,444	42,705
Restructured Credit Card Loans [Member] | Past Due, 29 Days or Less [Member]	'	'	'
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'	'	'
Credit Card Receivables	3,080	3,962	3,754
Restructured Credit Card Loans [Member] | Past Due, 30-59 Days [Member]	'	'	'
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'	'	'
Credit Card Receivables	1,603	1,641	1,683
Restructured Credit Card Loans [Member] | Past Due, 60 or More Days [Member]	'	'	'
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'	'	'
Credit Card Receivables	2,769	2,920	3,046
Restructured Credit Card Loans [Member] | Total Past Due [Member]	'	'	'
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'	'	'
Credit Card Receivables	7,452	8,523	8,483
Restructured Credit Card Loans [Member] | 90 Days or More Past Due and Still Accruing [Member]	'	'	'
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'	'	'
Credit Card Receivables	1,115	1,381	1,370
Restructured Credit Card Loans [Member] | Non-accrual [Member]	'	'	'
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'	'	'
Credit Card Receivables	$5,431	$5,381	$6,052

Securities_Details

Securities (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 29, 2014	Mar. 30, 2013	Dec. 28, 2013	Dec. 29, 2012
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Included in earnings - realized	$0	$0	'	'
Investment Income, Interest	1,007	1,036	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	69,674	72,880	71,072	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, within One Year, Amortized Cost Basis	1,932	'	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, within One Year, Fair Value	'	'	2,400	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Year Two, Amortized Cost Basis	2,244	'	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Year Two, Fair Value	2,792	'	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Year Three, Amortized Cost Basis	2,690	'	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Year Three, Fair Value	3,292	'	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Year Four, Amortized Cost Basis	2,617	'	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Year Four, Fair Value	3,161	'	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Year Five, Amortized Cost Basis	3,074	'	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Year Five, Fair Value	3,660	'	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, after Five Through Ten Years, Amortized Cost Basis	23,069	'	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, after Five Through Ten Years, Fair Value	26,877	'	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, after Ten Years, Amortized Cost Basis	34,048	'	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, after Ten Years, Fair Value	37,874	'	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Amortized Cost Basis	69,674	'	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value Disclosure	80,056	84,463	78,504	85,041
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	10,382	11,765	7,432	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	$0	($182)	$0	'

Borrowings_of_Financial_Servic2

Borrowings of Financial Services Segment (Details) (USD $)

Mar. 29, 2014

Dec. 28, 2013

Mar. 30, 2013

Mar. 30, 2013

Dec. 28, 2013

Mar. 29, 2014

Mar. 29, 2014

Mar. 30, 2013

Mar. 30, 2013

Dec. 28, 2013

Mar. 29, 2014

Mar. 30, 2013

Dec. 28, 2013

Mar. 29, 2014

Mar. 30, 2013

Dec. 28, 2013

Mar. 29, 2014

Mar. 30, 2013

Dec. 28, 2013

Mar. 29, 2014

Mar. 30, 2013

Dec. 28, 2013

Mar. 29, 2014

Mar. 29, 2014

Mar. 29, 2014

Mar. 29, 2014

Mar. 30, 2013

Dec. 28, 2013

Mar. 29, 2014

Dec. 28, 2013

Mar. 30, 2013

Dec. 28, 2013

Mar. 29, 2014

Dec. 28, 2013

Mar. 29, 2014

Mar. 29, 2014

Mar. 29, 2014

Mar. 29, 2014

Dec. 28, 2013

Mar. 30, 2013

Mar. 29, 2014

Dec. 28, 2013

Mar. 30, 2013

Mar. 29, 2014

Dec. 28, 2013

Mar. 30, 2013

Mar. 29, 2014

Dec. 28, 2013

Mar. 30, 2013

Mar. 29, 2014

Dec. 28, 2013

Mar. 30, 2013

Mar. 29, 2014

Dec. 28, 2013

Mar. 30, 2013

Mar. 29, 2014

Dec. 28, 2013

Mar. 30, 2013

Mar. 29, 2014

Dec. 28, 2013

Mar. 30, 2013

Mar. 29, 2014

Dec. 28, 2013

Mar. 29, 2014

Mar. 29, 2014

Dec. 28, 2013

Mar. 30, 2013

Mar. 29, 2014

Dec. 28, 2013

Mar. 30, 2013

Mar. 29, 2014

Dec. 28, 2013

Mar. 30, 2013

Mar. 29, 2014

Dec. 28, 2013

Mar. 30, 2013

Mar. 29, 2014

Dec. 28, 2013

Mar. 30, 2013

Mar. 29, 2014

Dec. 28, 2013

Mar. 30, 2013

Mar. 29, 2014

Dec. 28, 2013

Mar. 30, 2013

Mar. 29, 2014

Dec. 28, 2013

Mar. 30, 2013

Mar. 29, 2014

Dec. 28, 2013

Mar. 29, 2014

Mar. 29, 2014

Dec. 28, 2013

Mar. 30, 2013

Mar. 29, 2014

In Thousands, unless otherwise specified

Series 2013-I [Member]

Series 2013-I [Member]

Series 2013-I [Member]

Secured Debt, Variable Funding Facility [Member]

Secured Debt, Variable Funding Facility [Member]

Series 2010-I

Series 2010-I

Series 2010-I

Series 2010-II

Series 2010-II

Series 2010-II

Series 2011-II [Member]

Series 2011-II [Member]

Series 2011-II [Member]

Series 2011-IV [Member]

Series 2011-IV [Member]

Series 2011-IV [Member]

Series 2012-I [Member]

Series 2012-I [Member]

Series 2012-I [Member]

Minimum [Member]

Maximum [Member]

Federal Funds Purchased [Member]

Federal Funds Purchased [Member]

Federal Funds Purchased [Member]

Secured Debt, Variable Funding Facility, March 23, 2012 [Member]

Secured Debt, Variable Funding Facility, March 23, 2012 [Member]

Series 2012-II [Member]

Series 2012-II [Member]

Series 2012-II [Member]

Series 2013-II [Member]

Series 2013-II [Member]

Series 2014-I [Member]

Note Class A [Member]

Fixed Rate Obligation [Member]

Fixed Rate Obligation [Member]

Fixed Rate Obligation [Member]

Fixed Rate Obligation [Member]

Fixed Rate Obligation [Member]

Fixed Rate Obligation [Member]

Fixed Rate Obligation [Member]

Fixed Rate Obligation [Member]

Fixed Rate Obligation [Member]

Fixed Rate Obligation [Member]

Fixed Rate Obligation [Member]

Fixed Rate Obligation [Member]

Fixed Rate Obligation [Member]

Fixed Rate Obligation [Member]

Fixed Rate Obligation [Member]

Fixed Rate Obligation [Member]

Fixed Rate Obligation [Member]

Fixed Rate Obligation [Member]

Fixed Rate Obligation [Member]

Fixed Rate Obligation [Member]

Fixed Rate Obligation [Member]

Fixed Rate Obligation [Member]

Fixed Rate Obligation [Member]

Fixed Rate Obligation [Member]

Fixed Rate Obligation [Member]

Fixed Rate Obligation [Member]

Fixed Rate Obligation [Member]

Variable Rate Obligations [Member]

Variable Rate Obligations [Member]

Variable Rate Obligations [Member]

Variable Rate Obligations [Member]

Variable Rate Obligations [Member]

Variable Rate Obligations [Member]

Variable Rate Obligations [Member]

Variable Rate Obligations [Member]

Variable Rate Obligations [Member]

Variable Rate Obligations [Member]

Variable Rate Obligations [Member]

Variable Rate Obligations [Member]

Variable Rate Obligations [Member]

Variable Rate Obligations [Member]

Variable Rate Obligations [Member]

Variable Rate Obligations [Member]

Variable Rate Obligations [Member]

Variable Rate Obligations [Member]

Variable Rate Obligations [Member]

Variable Rate Obligations [Member]

Variable Rate Obligations [Member]

Variable Rate Obligations [Member]

Variable Rate Obligations [Member]

Variable Rate Obligations [Member]

Variable Rate Obligations [Member]

Variable Rate Obligations [Member]

Variable Rate Obligations [Member]

Secured Debt [Member]

Secured Debt [Member]

Secured Debt [Member]

Subordinated Debt [Member]

Series 2013-I [Member]

Series 2013-I [Member]

Series 2013-I [Member]

Series 2013-I [Member]

Series 2010-I

Series 2010-I

Series 2010-I

Series 2010-II

Series 2010-II

Series 2010-II

Series 2011-II [Member]

Series 2011-II [Member]

Series 2011-II [Member]

Series 2011-IV [Member]

Series 2011-IV [Member]

Series 2011-IV [Member]

Series 2012-I [Member]

Series 2012-I [Member]

Series 2012-I [Member]

Series 2012-II [Member]

Series 2012-II [Member]

Series 2012-II [Member]

Series 2013-II [Member]

Series 2013-II [Member]

Series 2014-I [Member]

Series 2013-I [Member]

Series 2013-I [Member]

Series 2013-I [Member]

Series 2010-I

Series 2010-I

Series 2010-I

Series 2010-II

Series 2010-II

Series 2010-II

Series 2011-II [Member]

Series 2011-II [Member]

Series 2011-II [Member]

Series 2011-IV [Member]

Series 2011-IV [Member]

Series 2011-IV [Member]

Series 2012-I [Member]

Series 2012-I [Member]

Series 2012-I [Member]

Series 2012-II [Member]

Series 2012-II [Member]

Series 2012-II [Member]

Series 2013-II [Member]

Series 2013-II [Member]

Series 2014-I [Member]

Series 2013-I [Member]

Assets and Associated Liabilities of Transfers Accounted for as Secured Borrowings [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt Instrument, Maximum Borrowing Capacity

'

'

'

'

'

'

$1,025,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$85,000

'

'

$500,000

$350,000

'

'

'

'

'

$300,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt Instrument, Maturity Date

'

'

'

15-Feb-23

15-Feb-23

'

'

'

15-Jan-15

15-Jan-15

'

15-Sep-15

15-Sep-15

'

15-Jun-16

15-Jun-16

'

15-Oct-16

15-Oct-16

'

15-Feb-17

15-Feb-17

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

15-Jun-17

15-Jun-17

'

15-Aug-18

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Total debt

549,009

331,065

328,329

327,250

327,250

327,250

'

'

255,000

255,000

255,000

212,500

212,500

212,500

255,000

255,000

255,000

255,000

255,000

255,000

425,000

425,000

425,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

425,000

425,000

425,000

297,500

297,500

255,000

'

1,449,750

1,449,750

1,349,750

327,250

327,250

327,250

0

0

0

127,500

127,500

127,500

155,000

155,000

155,000

165,000

165,000

165,000

275,000

275,000

275,000

300,000

300,000

300,000

100,000

100,000

0

1,257,500

1,002,500

805,000

0

0

0

255,000

255,000

255,000

85,000

85,000

85,000

100,000

100,000

100,000

90,000

90,000

90,000

150,000

150,000

150,000

125,000

125,000

125,000

197,500

197,500

255,000

2,707,250

2,452,250

2,154,750

'

Long-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate

'

'

'

2.71%

2.71%

2.71%

'

'

1.65%

1.62%

1.61%

1.74%

1.72%

1.72%

1.77%

1.75%

1.75%

1.50%

1.48%

1.48%

1.31%

1.30%

1.30%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1.22%

1.21%

1.21%

1.27%

1.26%

0.53%

'

'

'

'

2.71%

2.71%

2.71%

0.00%

0.00%

0.00%

2.29%

2.29%

2.29%

2.39%

2.39%

2.39%

1.90%

1.90%

1.90%

1.63%

1.63%

1.63%

1.45%

1.45%

1.45%

2.17%

2.17%

0.00%

'

'

'

0.00%

0.00%

0.00%

1.61%

1.62%

1.65%

0.86%

0.87%

0.90%

0.76%

0.77%

0.80%

0.71%

0.72%

0.75%

0.69%

0.70%

0.73%

0.64%

0.65%

0.68%

0.81%

0.82%

0.53%

'

'

'

'

Less current portion of debt

255,000

0

0

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

255,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

255,000

'

'

'

Long-term debt, less current maturities

540,587

322,647

319,923

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,449,750

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,002,500

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2,452,250

'

'

'

Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations

'

'

'

'

'

'

0

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0.50%

0.85%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Line of Credit Facility, Unused Capacity, Commitment Fee Percentage

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0.25%

0.40%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Short-term Debt, Average Outstanding Amount

'

'

'

'

'

'

4,222

91,444

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0

27

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate

'

'

'

'

'

'

0.75%

0.77%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0.75%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Notes Issued

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$255,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$45,000

LongTerm_Debt_and_Capital_Leas2

Long-Term Debt and Capital Leases (Details)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 29, 2014	Mar. 30, 2013	Dec. 28, 2013	Mar. 29, 2014	Mar. 29, 2014	Dec. 28, 2013	Mar. 30, 2013	Mar. 29, 2014	Mar. 30, 2013
	USD ($)	USD ($)	USD ($)	Unsecured $20 million Canadian revolving credit facility	Unsecured $20 million Canadian revolving credit facility	Unsecured $20 million Canadian revolving credit facility	Unsecured $20 million Canadian revolving credit facility	Financial Standby Letter of Credit [Member]	Financial Standby Letter of Credit [Member]
				USD ($)	CAD	USD ($)	USD ($)	USD ($)	USD ($)
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity	$415,000	'	'	$20,000	'	'	'	'	'
Unsecured $415 million revolving credit facility	229,086	0	2,932	0	'	0	0	'	'
Unsecured notes due 2016 with interest at 5.99%	215,000	215,000	215,000	'	'	'	'	'	'
Unsecured senior notes due 2017 with interest at 6.08%	60,000	60,000	60,000	'	'	'	'	'	'
Unsecured senior notes due 2015-2018 with interest at 7.20%	32,572	40,714	40,714	'	'	'	'	'	'
Capital lease obligations payable through 2036	12,351	12,615	12,419	'	'	'	'	'	'
Total debt	549,009	328,329	331,065	'	'	'	'	'	'
Less current portion of debt	8,422	8,406	8,418	'	'	'	'	'	'
Long-term debt, less current maturities	540,587	319,923	322,647	'	'	'	'	'	'
Line of Credit Facility, Capacity Available for Specific Purpose Other than for Trade Purchases	100,000	'	'	'	10,000	'	'	'	'
Line of Credit Facility, Capacity Available for Trade Purchases	20,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Amount that Line of Credit Facility may be Increased to	500,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Line of Credit Facility, Average Outstanding Amount	7,712	1,621	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Line of Credit Facility, Interest Rate During Period	1.67%	1.45%	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-24,578	24,694
Letter of Credit, Average Outstanding Amount	$14,201	$16,469	'	'	'	'	'	'	'

Income_Taxes_Details

Income Taxes (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 29, 2014	Mar. 30, 2013	Dec. 28, 2013
Unrecognized Tax Benefits	$66,996	$40,968	$64,800
Statutory federal rate	35.00%	35.00%	'
State income taxes, net of federal tax benefit	1.70%	1.40%	'
Other nondeductible items	0.30%	0.10%	'
Tax exempt interest income	-0.50%	-0.40%	'
Rate differential on foreign income	-0.70%	-2.30%	'
Change in unrecognized tax benefits	-1.40%	0.40%	'
Other, net	0.00%	-0.40%	'
Effective Income Tax Rate, Continuing Operations	34.40%	33.80%	'
Income Tax Deposit on Prior Period Uncertain Tax Positions	53,418	'	'
Cash and Cash Equivalent Held by Foreign Subsidiary	$59,686	'	'

Commitments_and_Contingencies_1

Commitments and Contingencies (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 29, 2014	Mar. 30, 2013	Dec. 28, 2013
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months	$13,802	'	'
Payments for (Proceeds from) Tenant Allowance	0	4,200	'
Operating Leases, Rent Expense	4,148	3,392	'
Lease Incentive Receivable, Current	3,500	'	'
Purchase Commitment, Remaining Minimum Amount Committed	478,400	'	'
Grant Funding Subject to Contractual Remedies	44,465	'	'
Grant Funding Received	0	'	'
Grant Funding Subject to Contractual Remedies, Liability Recorded	23,240	6,999	22,536
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years	21,808	'	'
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years	21,719	'	'
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years	21,313	'	'
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years	27,807	'	'
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter	285,993	'	'
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due	392,442	'	'
Committments to Extend Credit	25,529,000	21,325,000	25,255,000
Loss Contingency, Accrual, Current	'	'	12,500
Loss Contingency, Estimate of Possible Loss	951	'	4,687
Payment Guarantee [Member]	'	'	'
Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount	$77,795	$62,079	$48,409

StockBased_Compensation_Plans_1

Stock-Based Compensation Plans and Employee Benefit Plans (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 29, 2014	Mar. 30, 2013
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'
Share-based Compensation	$4,064	$3,493
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized	35,629	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	'3 years 3 months 0 days	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant	3,345,770	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period	210,523	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Intrinsic Value	$14,121	$8,104
Closing Stock Price of one share of Cabela's Stock	$65.06	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number	1,950,740	'
Cabela's Incorporated 2004 Stock Plan [Member]	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number	2,835,494	'
Cabela's Incorporated 2013 Stock Plan [Member]	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number	654,230	'
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Employee Stock Purchase Plans	16,928	'
Employee Stock Option [Member]	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross	194,905	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$66.32	'
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross	289,855	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$66.32	'
Employee Stock [Member]	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant	1,953,257	'
Director [Member] | Employee Stock Option [Member]	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross	5,000	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$63.60	'
Chief Executive Officer [Member] | Employee Stock Option [Member]	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross	64,000	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$76.27	'
Management [Member] | Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross	51,050	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$66.32	'

Stockholders_Equity_and_Divide2

Stockholders' Equity and Dividend Restrictions (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014	Mar. 30, 2013	Dec. 28, 2013	Feb. 14, 2013
Statutory Accounting Practices, Statutory Amount Available for Dividend Payments	$229,377,000	'	'	'
Balance, beginning of period	0	492,414	'	'
Purchase of treasury stock at a cost	0	72,200	'	'
Balance, end of period	0	51,495	'	'
Stock Repurchase Program, Number of Shares Authorized to be Repurchased	'	'	'	650,000
Cumulative foreign currency translation adjustments	-10,023,000	-1,526,000	-6,406,000	'
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	-3,494,000	5,982,000	-1,724,000	'
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Treasury Stock Reissued	0	513,119	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities [Member]	'	'	'	'
Accumulated net unrealized holding gains on economic development bonds	$6,529,000	$7,508,000	$4,682,000	'

Earnings_Per_Share_Details

Earnings Per Share (Details)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2014	Mar. 30, 2013
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]	'	'
Basic weighted average shares outstanding	70,766,568	70,157,744
Stock options, nonvested stock units, and employee stock purchase plans	991,465	1,215,080
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding	71,758,033	71,372,824
Stock options outstanding and nonvested stock units issued considered anti-dilutive excluded from calculation	650,780	0

Supplemental_Cash_Flow_Informa2

Supplemental Cash Flow Information (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 29, 2014	Mar. 30, 2013
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]	'	'
Interest Paid By Subsidiary	$16,001	$13,344
Accrued property and equipment additions (1)	31,021	28,516
Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments, Available-for-sale Securities	-831	0
Interest Paid	22,463	18,106
Interest Paid, Capitalized	2,190	748
Interest paid (2)	20,273	17,358
Income taxes paid, net of refunds	$14,046	$8,851

Segment_Reporting_Details

Segment Reporting (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 29, 2014	Mar. 30, 2013	Dec. 28, 2013
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Merchandise Revenue Percentage	100.00%	100.00%	'
Interest and Fee Income, Loans, Consumer	$94,219	$81,249	'
Goodwill	3,184	3,455	3,295
Merchandise sales	620,197	711,713	'
Financial Services Revenue	98,578	85,772	'
Other revenue	7,048	5,012	'
Total revenues	725,823	802,497	'
Operating Income (Loss)	40,853	79,115	'
Operating Income as a Percentage of Revenue	5.60%	9.90%	'
Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization	26,073	21,092	'
Assets	6,618,626	5,760,237	6,396,864
Property, Plant and Equipment, Additions	104,770	73,487	'
Cash and Cash Equivalent at Subsidiary	421,575	281,705	94,112
Interest Expense, Other	15,886	13,851	'
Provision for Other Credit Losses	-12,714	-12,775	'
Interest Income (Expense), after Provision for Loan Loss	65,619	54,623	'
Interchange income	82,427	77,630	'
Noninterest Income, Other Operating Income	755	1,283	'
Noninterest Income	83,182	78,913	'
Customer rewards costs	50,223	47,764	'
Retail Sales [Domain]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Merchandise Revenue Percentage	100.00%	100.00%	'
Direct Sales [Domain]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Merchandise Revenue Percentage	100.00%	100.00%	'
451110 Sporting Goods Stores [Member]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Merchandise sales	440,781	486,555	'
Financial Services Revenue	0	0	'
Other revenue	168	194	'
Total revenues	440,949	486,749	'
Operating Income (Loss)	52,298	84,678	'
Operating Income as a Percentage of Revenue	11.90%	17.40%	'
Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization	15,215	12,353	'
Assets	1,423,827	1,110,761	'
Property, Plant and Equipment, Additions	82,586	62,008	'
454390 Other Direct Selling Establishments [Member]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Merchandise sales	179,416	225,158	'
Financial Services Revenue	0	0	'
Other revenue	0	0	'
Total revenues	179,416	225,158	'
Operating Income (Loss)	33,130	44,897	'
Operating Income as a Percentage of Revenue	18.50%	19.90%	'
Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization	1,230	1,888	'
Assets	175,717	153,407	'
Property, Plant and Equipment, Additions	68	33	'
551111 Offices of Bank Holding Companies [Member]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Merchandise sales	0	0	'
Financial Services Revenue	98,578	85,772	'
Other revenue	0	0	'
Total revenues	98,578	85,772	'
Operating Income (Loss)	33,102	24,101	'
Operating Income as a Percentage of Revenue	33.60%	28.10%	'
Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization	380	374	'
Assets	4,215,139	3,760,562	'
Property, Plant and Equipment, Additions	327	214	'
All Other Segments [Member]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Merchandise sales	0	0	'
Financial Services Revenue	0	0	'
Other revenue	6,880	4,818	'
Total revenues	6,880	4,818	'
Operating Income (Loss)	-77,677	-74,561	'
Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization	9,248	6,477	'
Assets	803,943	735,507	'
Property, Plant and Equipment, Additions	$21,789	$11,232	'
Hunting Equipment [Member]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Merchandise Revenue Percentage	48.60%	56.30%	'
Hunting Equipment [Member] | Retail Sales [Domain]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Merchandise Revenue Percentage	52.30%	60.20%	'
Hunting Equipment [Member] | Direct Sales [Domain]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Merchandise Revenue Percentage	39.30%	47.70%	'
General Outdoor [Member]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Merchandise Revenue Percentage	28.70%	24.00%	'
General Outdoor [Member] | Retail Sales [Domain]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Merchandise Revenue Percentage	27.20%	22.50%	'
General Outdoor [Member] | Direct Sales [Domain]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Merchandise Revenue Percentage	32.30%	27.20%	'
Clothing and Footwear [Member]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Merchandise Revenue Percentage	22.70%	19.70%	'
Clothing and Footwear [Member] | Retail Sales [Domain]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Merchandise Revenue Percentage	20.50%	17.30%	'
Clothing and Footwear [Member] | Direct Sales [Domain]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Merchandise Revenue Percentage	28.40%	25.10%	'

Fair_Value_Measurements_Detail

Fair Value Measurements (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 29, 2014	Mar. 30, 2013	Dec. 28, 2013
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]	'	'	'
Deferred Grant Income Reduction	$0	'	'
Credit card loans (includes restricted credit card loans of the Trust of $3,726,122, $3,956,230, and $3,375,103), net of allowance for loan losses of $51,010, $53,110, and $64,700	3,698,529	3,334,619	3,938,630
Loans Receivable, Fair Value Disclosure	3,698,529	'	3,938,630
Included in earnings - realized	0	0	'
Included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) - unrealized	2,950	1,087	'
Valuation adjustments	0	0	'
Purchases	0	0	'
Issuances	0	0	'
Settlements	1,398	1,665	'
Balance, end of period	8,019	'	'
Time Deposits	940,141	969,367	1,069,362
Deposits, Fair Value Disclosure	940,058	1,032,132	1,070,831
Total debt	549,009	328,329	331,065
Long-term Debt, Fair Value	586,356	361,648	363,848
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Liability, Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements)	1,398	1,665	'
Loss Contingency, Damages Awarded, Value	'	'	13,625
Estimated Litigation Liability	15,707	'	14,125
Loss Contingency, Damages Sought, Value	1,062	'	'
Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Financial Incentives	831	'	'
Secured Debt [Member]	'	'	'
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]	'	'	'
Total debt	2,707,250	2,154,750	2,452,250
Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure	2,666,427	2,094,968	2,405,494
Long-term Debt [Member]	'	'	'
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]	'	'	'
Total debt	$2,707,250	'	'