Popular Fishing Shop Is a Local Favorite
Photographer / Lana King
As the largest tackle shop in Indiana, Ye Olde Tackle Box has been a staple in the North Webster community since it first opened its doors in 1958. Popular from the very start, it continues to thrive today under the ownership of Joe Denton.
Denton first took over at Ye Olde Tackle Box in February of 2019. He had been injured at his previous job, and things there were not going the way he had hoped, so Denton purchased the business from a friend.
It was a natural fit for Denton, as he loves to spend time outside and in nature.
“I’m an outdoors freak, I guess you could say,” Denton says. “I love hunting, fishing, anything to do with the outdoors.”
Denton’s love for what he does shines through in the customer service provided to Ye Olde Tackle Box’s patrons. He and his team fill their 11,000 square-foot space with all sorts of high quality products for people to select from.
“I have people come in all the time and they’re amazed at how big the store is,” Denton says. “And all but 2,500 square feet of it have tackle.”
In addition to being Indiana’s largest tackle store, Ye Olde Tackle Box holds another record — they are the largest musky tackle dealership in the area. From Musky Innovations to Musky Mayhem to Red October baits, you are sure to find what you are looking for.
Ye Olde Tackle Box provides products for more than just musky fishing, though. With more than 100 lakes in Kosciusko County, customers can also find tackle for panfish, bass and pike. Denton’s store carries the largest selection of Zoom and Yamamoto soft plastic baits for those interested in bass fishing.
If it’s a rod you’re looking for, you will find just as much variety with your options as you would with the tackle. Ye Olde Tackle Box carries rods for panfish all the way up to musky rods, plus open and closed-face reels. All high-quality brands, you are certain
to find something to fit your needs. The store also offers the necessities for fly fishing, including rods, reels, flies and fly tying equipment.
Despite Denton’s love of the outdoors, his favorite part of the business is undoubtedly the customers. He loves interacting with them, answering their questions and helping them pick out the best products.
“Through this [coronavirus], my customers have been awesome,” Denton says. “I’d like to give a big shoutout to my customers because they’ve helped support me through all of this.”
Ye Olde Tackle Box is located at 708 South Main Street in North Webster. To learn more, visit them online at yeoldetacklebox.net. Patrons are asked to call the store at 574-834-2011 with questions or for current information on water, weather and fishing conditions.
