The Shack Bait & Tackle Opens At South Benson Marina In Fairfield

FAIRFIELD, CT — The Shack Bait & Tackle, which specializes in "bait, tackle and marina essentials," has opened at Fairfield's South Benson Marina, 471 Turney Road.

The shop soft-launched earlier this year, and held a ribbon-cutting event Wednesday with First Selectperson Christine Vitale and town officials.

Owner Adam Mann said his love of fishing began when he was a child growing up near the shore in southern Westchester, and later developed into an interest in surf casting and boat fishing.

"Summer days were spent fishing off the pier much like the kids do here in Fairfield," Mann said in a statement. "As an adult, I found a love for surf casting, and of course, fishing from a boat whenever I could! I launched my second career in 2020 when I opened The Shack Bait Shop and also The Shack Food Truck. The skills I honed in the business world (my past life of almost thirty years) were easily applied, and quite basic: build relationships and be a valuable resource for your customers."

Mann said he moved to Connecticut several years ago and chose Fairfield after spending time in the town's coastal areas.

"I moved to Connecticut a few years ago and began revisiting the coastal areas," Mann said. "I had taken my kids to Jennings and Penfield Beaches when they were little. It always left a lasting impression. Seeing the kids racing down to the pier on their bikes, fishing poles in tow, gave me a sense of nostalgia, reminding me of my childhood. I knew the Fairfield community was where I wanted to be."

The business is located at South Benson Marina and includes a bait and tackle shop and The Shack Food Truck.

"I have carved out a small niche in the marina — a mom-and-pop type shop — reminiscent of the way things used to be," Mann said. "I make sure to hire locals, including retirees and students alike. It's a small bait shop, but we stock it with a little of everything you could need, including fresh bait. We have a gas dock, ice, snacks, ice cream, coffee, and we opened The Shack Food Truck just in time for the Fourth of July weekend.”

Mann said the food truck serves recipes he developed over several years, including dry rubs, chili and a gluten-free shrimp and clam batter.

"We really are a one-stop shop," Mann said. "Whether you're looking for comfort food, a place to brag about your latest catch, or advice when you're heading out — my staff and I are happy to help! And I'm happy to call South Benson Marina our new home for The Shack Bait & Tackle and The Shack Food Truck!"

The Shack Bait & Tackle

555 Turney Road
Fairfield, CT 06824

203-939-0774

Hours

Mondays - Thursdays: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Fridays: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Saturdays: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Sundays: 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.