Keeping Angling Local: Why We Need Our Tackle Shops

Why Tackle Shops Still Matter — And Why We Should Support Them

In today’s world of one-click online shopping, it’s easy to overlook the value of the local high street tackle shop. And while they’re not all on the traditional high street anymore — you’ll now find them on industrial estates, in shopping centres, and even on-site at fisheries — wherever they’re based, these shops remain the beating heart of the fishing community. They’re places where advice is shared, friendships are made, and newcomers become lifelong anglers.

Retail is tough across the board, and sadly, more tackle shops are closing every year. Some shut down because they’re no longer profitable — but many disappear simply because the owner is ready to retire and can’t find anyone to take the business on. That’s why it’s encouraging to see companies like Angling Direct stepping in — securing the future of dozens of local tackle shops and giving long-serving owners a well-earned route to retirement. They understand the value of local shops better than most, having started out as a local tackle shop themselves — and remaining proudly rooted in that tradition today.

But if we want to see these local shops survive and thrive, we all have a part to play. The best way to protect their future? - Use them.

Here’s why they matter:

1. Genuine, Reliable Advice

Tackle shop staff aren’t just trying to sell you something — they’re fellow anglers who want you to succeed. Their advice is based on real-world experience, not product descriptions. Whether you’re trying to choose your first rod or pick the right hook pattern for a match, they’ll give you honest recommendations that suit your style, budget, and the venues you fish.

Anglers helping anglers — that’s the difference in a local tackle shop. (photo credit Tom Humphreys)

2. Up-to-Date Local Knowledge

Fishing isn’t the same from week to week, and no one has a better finger on the pulse than your local tackle shop. They hear from customers daily and usually know what’s working where: what bait is producing on the local lakes, which pegs are fishing well, or what changes have happened on nearby rivers and canals.

This local insight can make the difference between a blank and a brilliant day.

3. Try Before You Buy – And Often Price Match

It’s tempting to go straight for the cheapest deal online — especially when money’s tight — but don’t assume your tackle shop can’t compete. Many are happy to price match or come close, especially for regular customers. Plus, you get to see, feel, and compare the gear before committing.

Want to test the action on a rod? Feel the balance of a reel? Compare hooks side by side? That’s something no website can offer — and it means fewer mistakes and better value in the long run.

No guesswork here – check the action, weight, and quality for yourself. (photo credit Tom Humphreys)

4. Fresh Bait – And the Best for Regulars

Online bait can be a gamble — late deliveries, poor storage, or items arriving in poor condition. Tackle shops offer fresh, properly kept bait every time. And if you’re a regular, chances are you’ll get looked after even better: first pick of the freshest maggots, the best quality worms, or a bit of extra bait when you need it.

Like any business, tackle shops look after their best customers. You might even get a small discount at the till now and then — a quiet nod of thanks for your loyalty.

5. Last-Minute Essentials

We’ve all had that moment: you arrive at the water and realise you’ve left something at home — hooks, a float, bait elastic. The tackle shop is your safety net. Pop in on the way and you’ll be sorted in minutes. No need to wait days for a delivery, no need to abandon your trip.

Last-minute session saver: sorted in minutes, not days. (photo credit Tom Humphreys)

6. Repairs, Spares, and Problem Solving

Tackle breaks. It’s part of fishing. But most good tackle shops often offer repair services or can quickly order the spare parts you need. Whether it’s a cracked pole section, a replacement rod eye, or a missing reel part, they’ve either got it in stock or can get it faster than you’d expect. Some even offer in-house repairs or work with trusted local specialists. That kind of support is priceless — and not something you’ll get from a web only based business.

7. They Support the Community

Many tackle shops go far beyond simply selling gear. They sponsor junior leagues, organise local matches, and support angling clubs by stocking day tickets and memberships. They also provide jobs for local anglers — and for some, it’s the dream job. These shops are social spaces too, where anglers of all levels can meet, swap stories, share tips, and feel part of something bigger. For newcomers especially, that friendly, welcoming atmosphere can be the difference between just trying fishing and falling in love with it for life.

Use Them or Lose Them

If we want local tackle shops to survive, we need to use them. That doesn’t mean never buying online — it just means remembering the value of personal service, local knowledge, and face-to-face support.

Even small, regular purchases — a couple of pint of maggots, a few floats, a tub of shot— help keep the doors open. Because every time we shop at a tackle shop, we’re doing more than just buying tackle — we’re helping to keep something truly valuable alive in our communities. It’s support that online-only giants like Amazon, Temu, or tackle retailers with no local presence simply don’t provide.

Tackle shops give back in ways that go far beyond the till — so support them. Your fishing, and your community, will be better for it.

Support your local tackle shop — your fishing, and your community, will be better for it.

All pictures by www.instagram.com/tomhumphs_angling/