Smith's Bait Stand, the longtime cornerstone business at Dobbins Landing in Erie, is no more.
Smitty's had been in operation since 1938, moving in the last decade from its old digs into a new block building in Wolverine Park. For those accustomed to stopping in for bait of a fishing tip, or even just glancing out the car window on a ride around the dock, it will be no small loss.
In practical terms, out-of-town anglers might feel an even bigger absence soon.
S.O.N.S. of Lake Erie Vice President Ed Kissell told the Times-News that neither of the remaining city waterfront bait stands sells electronic fishing licenses, which could impact their opportunity to fish off charter boats.
"Without that facility on our bayfront, these people are going to be handicapped," Kissell said.
If you have an idea for the future of the 700 square foot building, the Erie-Western Pennsylvania Port Authority will accept proposals on Thursday, May 8.
And if you have a memory of Smitty's to share, leave a reply here or at the end of the story link above.