Tackle Shops
There are some great fishing spots around Longboat Key. The most popular fishing destination might be Sarasota Bay, but if you book a fishing charter, you can comb the deep sea for bigger prey and a day on the open ocean.
Once Longboat Key became accessible, and the traffic started increasing in the area, the need for a bait shop arose. The Bridge Shack was built in 1929 and by 1946, through a lease by Dan and Daisy Byrd became Dan Byrd’s Fish Camp. Nicknamed “The Bridge Shack” by locals, it was forced to close during construction of The New Pass Bridge.
Fast forward to the New Pass Bait Shop that lived on until 1998 when Jim and Don Wallace put in an offer to buy it. Their offer was accepted, and the Wallace’s bought the place as an investment property, but it turned out to mean so much more. The father-son duo truly bonded over this property. Since purchasing the bait shop and grill, they have made a slight modification to the building.
Our favorite personal touch to the bait shop ceiling is that it is covered in abandoned hats left in honor of a rumor started by a past employee: If you leave your hat at New Pass Bait Shop, you become a better fisherman. The Wallace’s had so much fun with the current bait shop and grill that they decided to open a second restaurant on St. Armand’s Circle later this year.
New Pass Grill and Bait Shop
1505 Ken Thompson Pkwy, Sarasota, FL 34236
(941) 388-3050
New Pass Grill and Bait Shop is a great place to start and end your day. You will truly get a feel for the past and the present of this area. A favorite of many locals and visitors alike, New Pass Grill and Bait Shop is a wonderful place that everyone of all ages can enjoy.
Annie’s Bait & Tackle
4334 127th St W, Cortez, FL 34215
(941) 794-3580
Looking for a great bait and tackle shop that happens to serve a top-notch grouper sandwich? Look no further than Annie’s. Many locals consider it to be the best place on the island. Dogs, bait, cold beer, fresh kitchen, old atmosphere, delicious garlic shrimp and tasty Cubans – all while being on the water. It doesn’t get much better than Annie’s Bait & Tackle.
Hart’s Landing
920 John Ringling Blvd, Sarasota, FL 34236
(941) 955-0011
Hart’s Landing is Sarasota’s oldest saltwater fishing bait and tackle store located near beautiful downtown Sarasota at the foot of the John Ringling Causeway on the way to Lido Beach. We specialize in live saltwater fishing bait, tackle, and our knowledgeable staff can get you geared up for the day.
Florida Sport Fishing Outfitters
Bradenton, FL 34209
(888) 647-2381
Florida Sport Fishing Outfitters specializes in corporate charters, group trips, fly & light tackle, and saltwater sport fishing charters. This is a great option if you want to grab some tackle and get out on a boat right away. Many people love that you can get your bait and a date all at the same time – a fishing date that is.
Island Discount Tackle
5503 Marina Dr, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217
(941) 779-2838
You will find the biggest little tackle shop in Florida also known as Island Discount Tackle located at Keyes Marina. You will find professional charter fishing captains, U.S. Coast Guard Licensed parasail trips, Dolphin and snorkeling excursions. You will find a variety of different options for boat slip rentals ranging from daily, weekly, weekend only, and monthly.
