Local NJ small business spotlight for August 2008 -- The Bait 'n' Tackle Shop
The NJ spotlight for August will be on:
The Bait 'n' Tackle Shop
485 Highway 35
Normandy Beach, NJ 08739
(732) 793-1144
Background:
Owned & operated by Ernie Wuesthoff and his family -- wife Charlene, daughter Holly, and Ricky.
Ernie, who's 83, but doesn't look a day over 75, has been in business since 1962. He is an icon in the salt water fishing world. It's been said that Ernie likes to tell stories, but he has the experience, and the catches, to back them up.
He is a truly entertaining character, and runs a great shop, stocked to the gills with just about any item a fisherman would need for a day on the water.
If you are ever looking for something to do after getting skunked, or want to get the scoop on what's happening in his stretch of the NJ surf, stop by and say hello to Ernie. Go listen to him tell stories of how things used to be, and learn about the true history of surf fishing in NJ.
While you're there, ask him to put some new line on your reels, or ask his advice about the best way to catch the fish you are targeting. Ernie most likely has the advice, the rigs, or the gear that will help you.
They also run a very well stocked seashell and souvenir business, so you can bring your wife or family while you chat about the fishing. There is something for everyone in that store, from a comprehensive selection of terminal tackle, jigs, lures, plugs, etc, to a decent set of rods and reels to suit every need.
He also has some pretty good prices, from the affordable pre-tied rigs to the selection of Lex custom plugs in the $11-$15 range.
Business Edge: "The friendliest service, and good advice"
Ernie has several line winders, ready to accomodate at a moment's notice. At 83, he fishes almost every day when he can get out.
Even if he is not there, his wife, daughter, or Ricky are very knowledgable and want you to be happy. The attitude you get when you walk in there is very pleasant, something that some in society seem to have lost in this fast-paced world.
Some pics of the shop. The next time you are in Normandy Beach, north of where the old Thunderbird used to be, stop in and say Hi!
For any small businesses out there that want to be included in our "Small Business of the Month" promos, contact me for details -- bunkerjoe
Great place, Ernie will talk your ear off. And he's always catchin, even when nobody else is. Seriously, he's a great guy, reminds me of my gramps who died a few years ago. Knows a lot about fishing, and he has always been reasonable with his prices. One of the few places around to get decent ready-made teaser rigs.
Local NJ small business spotlight for August 2008 -- The Bait 'n' Tackle Shop
has been in business since 1962. He is an icon in the salt water fishing world. It's been said that Ernie likes to tell stories, but he has the experience, and the catches, to back them up.
Reply With Quote
Seriously, he's a great guy, reminds me of my gramps who died a few years ago. Knows a lot about fishing, and he has always been reasonable with his prices. One of the few places around to get decent ready-made teaser rigs. 