By Mike Arcand
Lake Fork, right here in Wood County, Texas, is renowned as a premier destination for bass fishing. Amidst the natural beauty and thriving fishing community, Lake Fork TackleShack stands out as more than just a bait and tackle shop—it’s a testament to family values, veteran dedication, and a passion for angling. This veteran-owned and family-run business is carving out a unique niche for itself, with growing recognition for its custom rods, hand-crafted lures, and commitment to serving the local fishing community. I had the opportunity to sit down with the owners recently to discuss their business, values, and community involvement.
A Foundation of Service and Family
Lake Fork TackleShack isn’t just a business—it’s a family affair. The Hairston family, with their deep passion for fishing, are the driving force behind this establishment. Their story is one of hard work, dedication, and a shared love for fishing. Adding another layer to their story is the fact that it is a veteran-owned business. This background instills a sense of commitment and service that permeates every aspect of Lake Fork TackleShack’s operations. These values are not just words on a wall—they’re reflected in the personalized service, the attention to detail, and the genuine care for their customers.
The story begins when the family moved to the East Texas area in October 2022 and decided to follow Lloyd’s passion, buying the Lake Fork TackleShack location. Lloyd served in the U.S. Navy for four years, and he credits the military with giving him the discipline needed to do the business he does now. Theresa is still in the military, serving in the U.S. Air Force for 33 years in the regular Air Force and Air Force National Guard, now working remotely. As veterans, they knew that they wanted to do something for the community.
The sense of community is further enhanced by the Hairston family’s active involvement in local events and initiatives. As veterans, they understand the importance of giving back to the community that has supported them, and they consistently strive to contribute to the growth and community of the Lake Fork and Wood County areas.
The veteran’s organization Heroes Ranch reached out during its grand opening to see if the Hairstons could help out with the event. With their passion for fishing, they were assigned the kids’ fishing tournament to run. Lloyd says, “I love the interaction. I love seeing those kids being just as happy as they can be for the first time in who knows how long.”
More Than Just Bait: Custom Rods, Specialty Lures, and Expertise
While Lake Fork TackleShack offers all the standard necessities for a successful fishing trip—live bait, rods, reels, lines, and more—they’ve truly made a name for themselves with their impressive selection of custom lures and now custom rods. They understand that every angler has their own preferences and that the right lure can make all the difference in landing a trophy-worthy catch.
This understanding has driven them to curate a diverse and unique collection of lures, including many one-of-a-kind and custom-made options. They stock lures from various local brands, and they are currently launching a custom rod service in-house as well. Whether you’re a seasoned pro looking for a specific lure that’s proven to work on Lake Fork or a novice seeking guidance on what to use, the knowledgeable folks at Lake Fork TackleShack are always ready to assist.Their expertise extends beyond just selling tackle.
They understand the nuances of fishing, the seasonal patterns of the fish, and the specific techniques that yield the best results.
This makes Lake Fork TackleShack a valuable resource for anglers of all skill levels. They’re not just selling products; they’re sharing their passion and knowledge to help others experience the thrill of a successful fishing trip.
A Hub for the Fishing Community
Lake Fork TackleShack is more than just a store; it’s also a gathering place for the local fishing community. Anglers can stop by to not just stock up on supplies, but also to share stories, exchange tips, and soon, they will even be able to purchase their fishing licenses there. The friendly atmosphere and the shared passion for fishing create a sense of camaraderie that makes Lake Fork TackleShack a true hub for anglers and guides as well.
The shop also appeals to out-of-towners. With so many successful tournaments held on the lake and the lake being so well known, it attracts visitors from all over the country. This creates an economy for local tackle shops, providing the opportunity for these merchants to build a successful business.
Lake Fork TackleShack also sponsors several of the events taking place on the lake throughout the year, such as Crappiefest. They also help sponsor one of the local high school’s fishing teams and have been able to give away free fishing tackle to some of the kids who visit the shop. Lloyd recalls visiting a tackle store at Lake Bridgeport that had a corkboard with polaroids for the local fishermen’s bragging rights. He wants to recreate that type of atmosphere at Lake Fork TackleShack and create a hub for the community.
A Testament to the American Dream
The story of Lake Fork TackleShack is a testament to the American Dream. It’s a story of a family working together, veterans applying their skills and dedication to a new venture, and a passion for fishing transforming into a thriving business. It’s a story that resonates with many, particularly in a community that values hard work, family values, and the spirit of entrepreneurship.
“The future for us is the transformation, what God’s put on our hearts, is having a tiny home and RV park community,” Theresa said.
In conclusion, The TackleShack at Lake Fork is more than just a place to buy fishing supplies. It’s also a symbol of community, dedication, and a deep-rooted passion for angling. As a veteran-owned and family-run business, they’ve created a unique and valuable space for anglers of all levels. Their specialty lures, custom rods, expert advice, and commitment to service make them a true gem in the Lake Fork fishing community.
Whether you’re a local resident or a visiting angler, a trip to Lake Fork TackleShack is an experience that embodies the true spirit of fishing and the values that make East Texas so special. Get directions and contact details on the Lake Fork TackleShack website.