Illinois' Bait Shops

When was the last time you went to a local bait shop. For some it has been a while or they'll be swinging by one before they hit the lake on Saturday. Many of these small bait shops struggle to make a living and others have done well for themselves.

Right down the road from Jim Edgar Panther Creek is a small bait shop, whenever I'm heading out to the lake and need a soda or bait I swing by. The insight and commodities goes farther here then at a gas station and the conversation are endless.

A few weeks ago I took a ride up to Heidecke Lake to do some fishing with a buddy. I used to go to this lake all the time as a kid, but things have changed. The entrance looked the same, however the boat ramps didn't. Along with the ramps changing, there was a lack of ramp etiquette when people were pulling in and out of the lake. There also was no longer a bait shop.

This got me thinking. This bait store had to close down due to lack of revenue. Today, with big box stores selling everything from fly fishing to deep sea fishing gear it's easier to go to one store and get everything you need and be on your way. It's easy to forget about the little guy.

Don't get me wrong... I love Bass Pro, Cabelas, and Scheels, but the knowledge and relationships that you build at local bait shops is worth far greater than any deal at a big store.

We plan on visiting as many as we can and writing a post and review for them. Can't find a bait shop... Check out Bait Shop Guide. They have a great list and interactive map of Illinois' Bait Shops.

Stay tuned to our first Local Bait Shop Review coming soon.

Remember Enjoy the Outdoors Good Luck and Stay Safe -