Some may already know this, but some don't, so without being too specific...
The small individually owned shops carry specifically what we may need, a special jig that works locally, a set of auger blades when we make a trip and find out ours couldn't cut anymore etc...
They are individually owned AND financed, via loans or someone's life savings etc. to try to make a dream work.
They don't have the buying power of large chains or big box stores.
Most importantly, they don't get the terms that the large stores get. Little if anything on the floor at a large retailer is paid for as it comes in. They have terms that allow them to sell through inventory and then re-order before having to outlay the cash for the initial order. That is where they make their profit.
No one minds a good deal, but consider dealing with your local shop before you click on the send button online or walk into that major retailer. Know that none of these shop owners are getting rich, and as IBJ said, many of them struggle to keep the doors open. They are working on very slim margins and yet still manage to stock tons of inventory.
Sometimes they can compete or beat the prices at the big places too. Bring cash and ask, they all pay an extra percentage to the card companies who we all know, are not hurting.
Support local, and of course our site sponsors as well, spend some of that Christmas cash at your local bait shop.
Disclaimer...
I do not own a shop, but have worked for and owned small businesses of my own. I know from my own experience that they will make things RIGHT if anything goes wrong, reputation is everything when you don't have national advertising.
Spud one, spud two, if it went through, so will you!
