For over a century, the Woodring family has been synonymous with the pioneering spirit and commercial fishing of Sanibel Island.
You may even recognize Woodring Point—a renowned spot on Sanibel known for its excellent fishing and strategic view of San Carlos Bay. In the 1800s, Sam Woodring, the original fishing pioneer, purchased Woodring Point and settled there with his family.
As the only full-time residents in the area, the Woodrings explored every corner of the island, honing their fishing expertise. Sam Woodring Jr. and his wife, Esperanza, went on to create and perfect Sanibel’s first fishing guide. Their son, Ralph Woodring, carried this proud legacy forward by opening The Historic Bait Box in 1971. Since then, the Bait Box has become a beloved cornerstone of Sanibel’s fishing culture.
Today, The Historic Bait Box is your go-to destination for all things fishing.
We offer a comprehensive range of equipment—including rods, reels, cast nets, life vests, fishing apparel, and an array of lures. Plus, our fresh live and frozen bait is caught nightly, ensuring that every angler gets the best quality to land that big catch.
After decades of serving the community with pride, The Historic Bait Box experienced a change in ownership in late 2017. With a focus on preserving the cherished traditions of our past—supported in part by dedicated team members like Ron Taverna—the shop continued to thrive. Now, under the visionary leadership of Matt Joyce, who took the helm in 2022, The Historic Bait Box honors its storied history while embracing a bright future.
Matt Joyce comes from a proud lineage of Chicago firemen—his grandfather, father, and even a cousin who served as the Chicago Fire Department Commissioner. This rich heritage instills in him a deep respect for tradition and community. With fresh ideas and an innovative approach, Matt is modernizing operations, expanding our product offerings, and enhancing customer service to revitalize the Bait Box as a vibrant hub for anglers and locals alike. His passion for the sport and commitment to preserving Sanibel Island’s fishing legacy ensure that The Historic Bait Box will remain a cherished institution for generations to come.
