Help Keep The Bait House Afloat!

Help Us Restore the Port of Happiness: the Bait House

To so many in our community, the Bait House Tackle & Tavern isn't just a business - it's the beating heart of Clearwater Beach, a place where friendships are forged, memories are made, and where locals and visitors alike find comfort and joy. Open since the 1940's, the Bait House is a landmark in Clearwater, Florida and has truly become the "Port of Happiness" for so many people who have become our friends.

On the night of September 26, Hurricane Helene swept through the Gulf Coast, bringing with it a devastating storm surge that caused severe damage. With water levels rising more than 4 feet, the Bait House, like so many other beloved establishments, took a heavy hit. Work has commenced to restore the building so that we may open again very soon, but the financial losses have been significant.

Just before we were ready to open again (less than 2 weeks later), Hurricane Milton swept through the area bringing heavy rain and wind, further damaging the interior and equipment that was left inside.

While we work tirelessly to restore out little piece of paradise, our incredible staff - our family - faces an uncertain future. The people who bring smiles, laughter, and warm welcomes to all who walk through our doors now need a lifeline of their own.

We are humbly asking for your support during this very challenging time. Your donation will help us provide essential financial assistance to our staff as they navigate this period of recovery. If we raise enough, funds will also be used to restore the interior and replace equipment as necessary.

Any contribution, no matter how small, will make a world of difference to those who have given so much of themselves to make the Bait House a place of comfort and joy for all.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for being part of our community, and for standing by us when we need it the most.

With deep gratitude,

Your Bait House Family

*This fundraiser was put together by Andrea Harms - wife of Christian Harms, one of the two owners of the Bait House Tackle & Tavern. The beneficiary of the funds is Clearwater Angler, LLC (d.b.a. The Bait House Tackle & Tavern) to be used for staff payroll, equipment and supplies in order to reopen the restaurant.