TIPS-UP FOR MORE FISH
Over 25 years ago Loyd and Dorothy Ecenbarger began to sell night crawlers out of their garage known as The Bait and Hook Store on Winchester Road. They sold just that – bait and hooks. They slowly introduced other fishing products over the years.
Jim McArdle, an experienced fisherman who grew up on Lake Wawasee, bought the store in 1994. He started with a few fishing rods, reels, and baits and now ten years later, because of a great deal of interest in the area for fishing and waterfowl hunting, has expanded the business. The Bait and Hook Store, aka Fort Wayne’s Pro Tackle Center, now carries over 3,000 different products. They specialize in premium tackle and accessories for tournament bass anglers, fly-fishermen, walleye enthusiasts and pan fishermen.
McArdle knows the special demands of his customers, since he has been a dedicated angler himself. He attended college in Boca Raton at Florida Atlantic University in the early 1970s, worked in radio and operated a beachside kite store. Jim came back to the Waynedale area to raise his son, Mac, and found himself owning a tackle store.
“Stocking that “special” tackle equipment is the reason why fisherman return again and again,” said owner McArdle. “We have expanded the store from 800 sq. ft. to 3200 sq. ft., and now have twice the inventory.”
It is time to start thinking ICE again! It won’t be long and the lakes will be frozen. This is the perfect time to get the ice fishing equipment out. Bait and Hook has doubled its ice fishing supplies. “I always thought that if I can’t get my boat out on the lake, I’m not going,” said McArdle. “But I learned that fishing in comfort is what I was searching for—-disposable hand warmers for each pocket, and a pair of Lambs wool gloves. It’s the little things like socks and gloves that make a difference.” And if you are looking to purchase a shelter/shanty, locator, or auger, this is the best time to do so.
The friendly and knowledgable staff at Bait and Hook is always willing to help you out. “Our Pro Tackle Center has everything you will need for a great day of fishing,” commented manager Matt Craighead. “It is fully stocked with everything from poles, to lures, to live bait. We even have a local gentleman that can custom make flys for you. There are a lot of items in our store that you just can’t get in those “box” stores.”
Winter is here. Did you know that fish bite better during ice season than summer? See you on the ice. Remember Bait and Hook Store on Winchester Road is full of fishing supplies just waiting to give you a good time. They can also tell you where the big ones can be caught.
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