Florida’s floating bait shop

CAPE CORAL, Fla. – You may have seen it, just sitting idle and floating in the middle of the Caloosahatchee River near Tarpon Point Marina. Jasper’s Bait has been floating in the river for about the past year.

The store never closes, open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If they’re asleep, simply ring the bell and they’ll be right up. From crab to shrimp they’ve got all types of bait, lures and hooks to help you have a successful day on the water.

There’s more than bait at Jasper’s though, whether you need boat oil, batteries or just a chicken sandwich, they’ve got you covered. Even cold ice cream and every nautical knick-knack you can think of.

The house was originally used as movie prop in “Thunder in Paradise,” shot in St. Petersburg, Florida. Owner’s Art Smith and Neale Sturgeon, towed it to where the house sits today anchored out in the river, serving anglers or anyone who stops by.

Jasper’s Bait shop is located on the Caloosahatchee River closest to marker 96 to the Southwest of Tarpon Point Marina. To order your bait in advance call 239-699-3469.