Bait shop celebrating 20th anniversary
John “Smoke” Sikora’s bait shop is located in the garage behind his home at 309 N. 11th St. in Coshocton. (Josie Sellers)
In 2000 John “Smoke” Sikora decided to turn his dream of running a bait shop into a reality. A little bit of green paint and three shelves later Smoke’s Bait Shop was born.
The shop recently opened for its 20th season in the garage behind Sikora’s home at 309 N. 11th St., two houses behind Crowtown Pizza’s former location in Coshocton.
“I never dreamed I’d have my bait shop for 20 years, but it’s grown,” he said.
With the help of Sikora’s friend Roger Tubbs of Mansfield, he is able to stock a variety of items to help fishermen land a big catch.
“We have everything you want to go fishing,” Sikora said. “If you want to catch a bass, I have bait to help you get it. I’m here to help the fishermen.”
Some of his stock includes jig heads of all sizes, twister tails (50 colors), wide variety of bass baits, and a wide selection of Venom Lures.
“My baits have gone everywhere,” Sikora said. “They’ve been to Canada, Lake Erie, down south, and all the lakes around here. Bass club members come in and let me know what they are catching, and we talk about what they are getting their bites on.”
He even has a wall of honor for his customers.
“If you catch a big fish I’ll put your picture up and you can show it off to your buddies,” Sikora said. “I’m here to work with people and treat them right.”
Sikora encourages fishermen to stop by and look at this shop or call 740-622-3341 for an appointment.
“Come and get bit,” he said.
Category: Business
