CANTON — Hilltop Hunting and Fishing, which has played a central role for many local hunters, fishermen and trappers in the North Country, is set to close for good in the near future.

The announcement came July 19 on the shop’s Facebook page.

“All good things have a beginning, a middle and an end. One of the North Country’s favorite hunting and fishing businesses, Hilltop Hunting and Fishing, is closing after four decades of sales and service to those who love to hunt, fish and more,” the post says.

Hilltop Hunting and Fishing was originally opened by Joe Russell in 1980, following the completion of his gunsmith training at Trinidad State Junior College in Colorado.

Russell unfortunately passed away unexpectedly on May 21, 2020.

While supplies last, any purchase of $50 or more will include a free copy of Russell’s book “Whitetale”, the post says

Markdowns began immediately after the post went live, with savings of 10% on all rifles, shotguns, handguns and optics, according to the post.

Ammunition has been marked down 10-25%.

All other products in the store are 25-50%, according to the post.

Over $200,000 in product was still available at the time of the post, including hunting and fishing supplies.

Current hours for the shop at 12-7 p.m., Monday through Friday.