About Us
Our Ownership
George Norris is the owner of The Tackle Shop. A Maine native, George grew up on Casco Bay targeting Mackerel + Striped Bass in the saltwater and Trout, Largemouth + Smallmouth bass in the freshwater. With an education in Environmental Science, George emphasizes the importance of conserving our resource for generations to come.
The Tackle Shop History
The Tackle Shop has been a cornerstone of the southern Maine fishing community for over 25 years. In May 1999, Dana Eastman and Keith Hall opened the shop at 61 India Street, proudly displaying the iconic striped bass emblem.
Keith brought his business acumen, while Dana contributed his extensive experience in the fishing industry. By 2004, Dana had become the sole owner, driven by a clear mission: to share his passion and knowledge of fishing with everyone who walked through the door, whether they were seasoned anglers or complete beginners. He also emphasized the importance of fish conservation, especially for striped bass.
To achieve this, Dana sought out employees who shared his dedication. These employees were not only knowledgeable but also passionate about teaching customers the best fishing practices and conservation techniques. Dana encouraged his team to fish often, believing that those who fished regularly would have the best insights into local fish behavior, ultimately benefiting the shop's customers.
The Tackle Shop's staff often fished five to seven nights a week, sometimes working on just a couple of hours of sleep. They would spend their days spooling reels, rigging lures, and repairing equipment, then head out to fish again after their shifts. This relentless dedication ensured they could provide the best advice and service to their customers.
Dana's approach attracted a diverse group of employees, from high school and college students on summer break to adults with full-time jobs who returned year after year. Over time, The Tackle Shop became more than just a business; it evolved into a close-knit family of employees and customers, united by their love of fishing and shared experiences.
As the seasons change, so too does The Tackle Shop. Dana is now passing the torch to George Norris, a trusted member of the Tackle Shop family who has worked there for seven years. George, who holds a degree in Environmental Science, took over in early May and relocated the shop to a new location in Falmouth.
George is eager to bring fresh energy, passion, and product to the shop, continuing the legacy of exceptional fishing knowledge, conservation efforts, and proven customer service. Dana will remain on as an employee, ensuring that his expertise continues to benefit the shop and its customers.
Despite the changes, The Tackle Shop family remains committed to serving the fishing community. We look forward to welcoming both old and new customers to our new spot in Falmouth.
Tight Lines!