Gulfstream’s products are made in the USA, and the company is dedicated to preserving the great tradition of independent tackle shops
Unlike other brands of fishing tackle that are made overseas, Gulfstream’s jigs are made in the USA. They’re tied by hand in Florida on American-made jig heads.
And Gulfstream owners Phyllis Humphrey and David Ehlers don’t deal with big-box retailers.
David and Phyllis have turned down opportunities to sell their jigs in big department stores because they know that would undermine the small tackle shops – treasured purveyors of fishing tackle whose future is being threatened by big retailers.
Why are independent tackle shops so important?
At local tackle shops, anglers find not only something to tie on the end of their lines but information on where to fish, how to tie knots, how to present baits and choose leaders, and loads of other helpful suggestions. That kind of information can save anglers lots of time and money.
Many local tackle shops also repair broken rods and reels and will share the latest in the ever-changing world of fishing regulations, along with a good fishing story or two. There’s little doubt that swapping tales at the local tackle shop is part of what makes Florida fishing so enjoyable.
Ever tried finding live shrimp, live sand fleas, live crabs or fresh ballyhoo at a big-box store?
It’s a myth that everything costs more in a small tackle shop. Quality rods and reels often cost less in local tackle shops than in big-box stores, and items that do cost a bit more really cost less when you include the cost of driving to a big-box store.
