Shop owner cuts bait so he can fish

An institution among Eastern Iowa anglers closed its doors for the last time Sunday after 28 years in business at 480 Seventh Ave.

Marion Live Bait, a purveyor of quality lures, tackle and bait, has gone out of business so its proprietor, 69-year-old Bob Dobling, can use bait rather than sell it.

Dobling said he tried to sell the business but got tired of waiting for a buyer.

“I like to hunt and fish, too,” said Dobling, who with his 60-hour work week has had little time to pursue his hobbies.

Dobling bought the bait business from Bill Rucker in 1981 and built his store in 1989.

He kept the business at its original location, he said, because its cool, pure well water is ideal for

maintaining healthy, lively bait.

Dobling said he tried to maintain Rucker's reputation for good bait generously provided.

“He never counted a minnow in his life,” Dobling said. “He always gave you more than you could use, more than you could keep alive.”

Dobling said the business has remained profitable despite increasing competition from box stores and Internet merchants.

“People came here because I kept regular hours, treated them fairly and had what real fishermen need, including fresh bait,” Dobling said.

Al Taylor of Marion, a customer for the last 28 years, said he and many others will miss both the merchandise and the camaraderie available at Marion Live Bait.

“He always had the lures I was looking for, along with honest information on how and where to use it,” Taylor said.