Current live bait availability
About this shop
Established in 1929 near Longboat Key, New Pass Grill & Bait Shop is a historic Sarasota landmark that delivers a nostalgic, open-air waterfront experience. Accessible by both car and boat, this iconic dockside establishment combines a casual grill, an active bait and tackle operation, and a charter dock under a single roof. Visitors can relax at picnic tables to enjoy scenic views of Sarasota Bay, passing boats, and local marine life while savoring a diverse menu featuring award-winning Angus burgers, fresh Gulf seafood, and signature smoked mahi fish dip.
The fully operational bait shop caters directly to local anglers and boaters by opening early every day at 6:00 AM. To support successful fishing expeditions in the surrounding waters, the shop maintains a well-stocked selection of high-quality equipment, terminal tackle, and rod rentals alongside their specialized bait selections. Anglers heading out can stock up on fresh live shrimp kept in on-site live wells, which serve as their primary live bait option alongside an extensive assortment of frozen baits like squid.