Seasonal tackle stand and bait counter

Day-trip anglers, campers, cottagers and tourists who need hooks, line, lures or bait on the spot.

Retail margin on small, quick purchases, with higher margins on bait and convenience items. Income is concentrated in the open-water or ice season.

• Knowing what anglers need locally
• Simple stock handling
• Friendly, quick customer service

• You'll likely need permission from the land owner or municipality, plus a business licence, so check local rules
• Selling live bait may be regulated or restricted in your province, so check with your provincial natural resources ministry
• Commercial general liability insurance, and cover for stock kept in a trailer or hut
• Short season and weather risk, so keep costs low
• Check if your bait storage or any food items for sale need a public health permit

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $3,000 to $20,000, depending on whether you use a stall, trailer or hut, and how much stock you carry. Because the season is short, keeping costs low is sensible.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $1,500 to $8,000, depending on your location, the weather and how busy the fishing season is. Remember the season is short and weather is a risk, so plan your costs accordingly.

Check whether you need permission from the land owner or municipality, plus a business licence. Selling live bait may be regulated in your province, so check with your provincial natural resources ministry. Also check insurance and any public health permit for bait storage or food.