Fueling the Morning Bite
In a coastal community deeply rooted in its maritime heritage, a bait shop is far more than just a place to buy gear - it is a repository of local knowledge. The waters surrounding the Cedar Keys are dynamic, filled with hidden oyster bars, shifting tides, and productive channels that hold redfish, speckled trout, flounder, snook, and more. Getting an edge on those species requires two things: the right provisions and the right timing.
By keeping early hours, DW&D ensures that local guides, commercial watermen, local and visiting recreational anglers can stock up on fresh or frozen bait, reliable tackle, and essential regional gear exactly when they need it most.
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Operating Hours & Location
Whether you are plotting a weekend trip or slipping out to the flats on a weekday morning, here is how you can find them:
Location: 12831 Whiddon Ave, Cedar Key, FL 32625
Contact: (352) 543-6109
Weekly Schedule (Close at 3:00pm in July, August, Sept) (weather permitting)
Days | Hours |
Monday – Sunday | 5:30 AM – 5:00 PM |
The Angler's Connection: Beyond the live well and the tackle boxes, it’s the early-morning exchange of ideas—tide patterns, what the fish are hitting, and where the water is cleanest—that makes a neighborhood bait house irreplaceable.
Before your next trek out past the channels, stop by to get an inside scoop and check in on the local conditions. Keep in mind that they currently only accept cash. Doug and his family will be there to help you along your way, it’s a Cedar Key tradition.
Stop in and see Doug! He’ll give you great advice for what you need on the water.
If you love keeping up with everything happening on our beautiful island, there are a few wonderful ways to show your support for I Love Cedar Key and help keep this community resource thriving!
Here is how you can get involved:
Paid Supporter Options: Upgrade to a paid subscriber tier here to directly fund this independent local project. To say a huge thank you for your support, you'll receive some awesome physical goodies:
🌴 A "Friend & Supporter" Sticker: A beautifully designed roseate spoonbill sticker with a classic Old Florida vibe.
🌴 An "I ❤️ Cedar Key" Wristband: A blue bracelet to proudly show off your island love.
🌟 PLUS: The wonderful feeling of keeping a local community project thriving!
Business Sponsorships: For local business owners, we offer dedicated advertising spaces, newsletter features, and social media spotlights to connect your brand directly with thousands of passionate Cedar Key locals and visitors.
Every single share, subscription, and sponsorship keeps our community connected and celebrates the unique charm we all love. Thank you for supporting I Love Cedar Key! - With gratitude, Lisa in Cedar Key 🌴