Nestled along the scenic shores of Montrose Harbor, Park Bait Shop stands as a cherished Chicago institution with a rich history dating back to the 1930s.
This family-run business has been an integral part of the city’s fishing community for nearly a century, offering a connection to the past while serving the needs of modern anglers.
Today, Stacey Greene-Fenlon carries forward this legacy, embodying a deep personal commitment to the shop that holds special significance for her.
Her father, after returning from the Navy in 1958, took over the lease and began a journey of wholesaling bait throughout Chicago, continuing the family’s involvement in this local tradition.
Park Bait Shop has long established itself as a one-stop destination for various fishing essentials, catering to the diverse needs of Chicago’s fishermen.
Greene-Fenlon describes the offerings with pride, stating, “We sell all kinds of live bait: minnows, crabs, worms, crayfish—not the ocean crabs, but crayfish.”
Inside the shop, visitors can find two enormous tanks of 5,000 and 10,000 gallons that showcase live bait in pristine condition, highlighting the shop’s dedication to old-school, hands-on methods.
Recollecting her childhood, Greene-Fenlon recalls helping her father collect minnows and crayfish from nearby lakes and rivers, emphasizing the shop’s connection to local waters.
“He’d actually go to different rivers, even collect the minnows right here in the lake.
He would get there early in the morning, take the bait truck out, and use a big net to gather minnows, filling buckets to bring back to the shop,” she recalls fondly.
In an age where online shopping and big-box retailers dominate the market, Park Bait Shop continues to thrive against the odds.
Greene-Fenlon acknowledges the challenges, stating, “Every business has its trials, but live bait is something you need to use fresh, so it’s hard to compete online for that.”
Despite these challenges, loyal customers continue to support the small business, appreciating its presence in the neighborhood.
She notes that many patrons pop in just to buy a bottle of water, supporting the local shop because they value having a family-run business nearby.
What truly sets Park Bait Shop apart is the sense of community it fosters.
Greene-Fenlon reflects on the heartfelt stories shared by customers, saying, “That used to be something my father loved, hearing stories about how grandfathers brought their grandchildren here.
Now, as I grow older, I cherish hearing those stories too.”
Located at 600 W Montrose Ave., Park Bait Shop welcomes visitors almost every morning starting at 5 a.m., remaining open from March until early December, weather permitting.
Winter closures are unavoidable due to the building’s lack of insulation.
“The structure is still largely from 1934-35, with only plywood and two-by-fours for walls,” Greene-Fenlon explains.
With no heating available, the shop must be winterized, making it difficult to remain open during the colder months.
Traditionally, winter fishing wasn’t as popular, and while it has gained traction in recent years, the challenges of operating in winter remain.
For both locals and tourists, Park Bait Shop is more than just a shop for fishing supplies; it is a slice of Chicago history.
It serves as a meeting place where stories are shared, traditions are passed down, and community bonds are strengthened over a shared love of Lake Michigan.
With its iconic status and the dedication of those like Greene-Fenlon, Park Bait Shop will continue to be a vital part of Chicago’s fishing culture for years to come.
image source from：fox32chicago
