Black Dog Bait and Tackle

If you're looking for a spot with authentic coastal Florida flavor, check out Black Dog Bait & Tackle. This legendary family-owned bait and tackle shop has been welcoming guests on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean in Melbourne for nearly 100 years. Located in the USA, this cozy nook, known to locals as the “Dog House,” is a true symbol of the region's fishing community.

Despite its status as a historical landmark, Black Dog Bait & Tackle remains an active and highly popular business. You can find everything needed for a successful fishing trip here: from fresh live bait to professional rods, reels, and apparel. The shop is famous for its high quality of service and unique items, such as locally crafted nets.

This place attracts not only professional anglers but also tourists looking to experience the atmosphere of "Good Old America." The establishment has been recognized with the Travellers’ Choice award from Tripadvisor, confirming its status as one of the most soulful and useful stops on the Florida coast.

To check the bait selection or get current fishing tips, you can contact the shop directly. Black Dog Bait & Tackle is always happy to connect with visitors to the city.

Official contact details are provided below:

The main reason to visit Black Dog Bait & Tackle is to prepare for an unforgettable fishing trip. Here you can buy live shrimp, various types of frozen bait, and professional equipment including rods, reels, and nets. If you’re a beginner, don't hesitate to ask—the staff will be happy to teach you how to properly hook your bait and rig your gear.

The expert advice from the local staff is particularly valuable for visitors. You can get current bite reports, learn the best techniques for catching specific species like snook, and check the tide tables. It is the perfect information hub before heading out on the water.

In addition to fishing supplies, the shop offers an excellent selection of branded apparel and accessories. You can pick up stylish shirts, hats, and sunglasses, which make for great souvenirs of your trip. The friendly atmosphere makes it a great place to just stop in, chat with fellow enthusiasts, and soak up the spirit of the ocean coast.

The shop is located at 207 Ocean Ave in the picturesque Melbourne Beach area. The easiest way to get here is by car via the A1A coastal highway, which runs along the Atlantic Ocean. Parking is available for visitors.

For those who prefer public transport, Brevard County Transit buses operate in the area. The nearest stops are just a few minutes' walk from Ocean Avenue. If you are staying in the city center, a taxi ride will take approximately 10–15 minutes.

Its proximity to the beach makes this an ideal point for a walking route. The shop is just a few hundred feet from the shoreline, surrounded by popular local restaurants like Sand on the Beach, allowing you to combine your fishing preparations with some relaxation by the water.

The history of Black Dog Bait & Tackle spans nearly a century, making it one of the oldest establishments of its kind on Florida’s Atlantic coast. It is a classic example of a successful family business passed down through generations, preserving the spirit of "Old Florida."

For decades, the shop has served as more than just a retail outlet; it has been a vital social hub for the residents of Brevard County. Regional fishing traditions were shaped here, and experienced masters shared their secrets with newcomers, creating a tight-knit community of ocean lovers.

The shop earned its unofficial nickname, “The Dog House,” thanks to its cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Despite the rapid advancement of modern technology, manual craftsmanship is still valued here—for example, you can find custom nets handmade by local experts specifically for Melbourne's coastal waters.

For a standard visit to Black Dog Bait & Tackle, less than one hour is sufficient. If your goal is simply to purchase bait or update your tackle, you can be in and out in 15–20 minutes.

However, if you plan to ask the staff about the best fishing spots, check the tide forecast, or pick out customized gear, it’s worth setting aside a bit more time. The friendly atmosphere often encourages leisurely conversation with local experts, which is an integral part of visiting this legendary spot.

The shop follows a schedule that is as convenient as possible for fishermen who are used to heading out at the first light of dawn. The doors open daily at 5:00 AM.

Opening Hours:
• Monday — Thursday: 05:00 – 21:00
• Friday — Saturday: 05:00 – 23:00
• Sunday: 05:00 – 21:00

Extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays allow night fishing enthusiasts to restock on ice and gear late into the evening.

A visit to the bait shop can be perfectly paired with a walk through Melbourne's historical and entertainment sites. The surrounding area is rich with markers and architectural landmarks that reveal the history of Florida's coast.

For your convenience, we have compiled a list of interesting locations nearby: