Get hooked on the Sandusky Bait Co.

SANDUSKY — Sandusky officials didn't lure them in any way whatsoever. Rather Steve and Tammy Hammer wanted to establish a business in the city on their own, pursuing what they both consider a life-changing opportunity. During a recent public meeting, city commissioners unanimously approved a one-year lease agreement for the Sandusky Bait Co. to operate from the Shelby Street Public Boat Launch facility. Sandusky Bait must pay Sandusky either $50 or $100 per month, depending on that particular period's foot traffic, which helps offset utility bills produced from there. The company debuted Thursday from a small building greeting boaters arriving by car. Up until then, the structure mostly sat empty ever since 2015, when DeMore's Shoreside Cafe serviced customers from there. "Steve and Tammy would like to operate the Sandusky Bait Co. as a family business and see the Shelby Street (facility) as the perfect place to make their business a success," city recreation superintendent Jason Werling said. While only contractually obligated to stay until Aug. 26, 2020, the Hammers envision their business becoming a long-term fixture in Sandusky. "It's a great opportunity and a beautiful place to work, live and support fishing," Tammy said. Earlier this year, Steve, a lifelong fisherman, began selling various fishing materials — harnesses, spoons and walleye lures — from his Bellevue home, one he shares with Tammy and their five children: Alexa, Blake, Cassie, Maddie and Stepheni. Due to some early successes, they quickly needed to expand. So when officials presented them with this location and accompanying deal, it's something neither could pass up. "It's been my dream," Steve said. The Sandusky Bait Co., open seven days a week through mid-November this year and resuming operations come springtime, will sell minnows, worms and Steve's specialty Hammertime lures. It'll also offer convenience store-type items, including drinks and snacks. A common complaint the couple heard: People needed to shop elsewhere for bait before launching their boats from the Shelby Street site. That'll no longer be the case with Sandusky Bait, Steve said. "Being an avid fisherman, I know what it would mean to the residents of Sandusky and beyond as well as fishermen alike to have a one-stop-shop for all of your fishing needs," Steve said. "It's something that is sorely needed, and we hope to provide that service. We hope to earn your business and become a staple in the community." Reach reporter Andy Ouriel at ouriel@sanduskyregister.com and follow him on Twitter @AndyOuriel. Steve and Tammy Hammer are the owner of Sandusky Bait Co., a new live bait and tackle shop operating from the Shelby Street Public Boat Launch in Sandusky.