May Business of the Month: Lakeside Pro Bass Shop

For over seven decades, Lakeside Pro Bass Shop and Mini Golf has been a cherished establishment in Logan County. Founded 76 years ago as Lakeside Landing by Gertrude and Jesse Pittard, this family-owned business has evolved into a beloved community hub for fishing enthusiasts and families alike.
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The journey of Lakeside Pro Bass and Mini Golf began with Gertrude and Jesse’s vision to create a welcoming space for devoted anglers. Originally named Lakeside Landing, the business started with renting John boats and selling live bait at their water access in the channel across the street. Gertrude’s culinary skills were also put to use as she served breakfast and lunch at the store and even put together box lunches for the fisherman.

In the 1960s, the channel was filled in which allowed Lakeside Pro Bass a landing across from the store for customer access, and it is still there to this day. Deloris Harshbarger, daughter of the Pittard’s, and B. Tim Harshbarger, grandson, took the reins from 1975 to 2013. They had a Bass Pro Shops franchise for several years which turned into an independent distributor and supported Muscular Dystrophy fishing tournaments. David Harshbarger took over Lakeside Pro Bass Shop and Mini Golf from his mother and brother in 2013 and continues to support fishing at Indian Lake.

​Lakeside Pro Bass Shop isn’t just a business; it’s a cornerstone of the community. The establishment proudly co-sponsors the new “Louise Williams Memorial School Fishing League” for middle school students across Hardin, Logan, and Shelby counties. This initiative not only promotes the sport of fishing but also encourages environmental stewardship and camaraderie among young anglers. Their first event was recently held on April 28 by Jackson Center school. The best student fisherperson for this Spring will receive a lifetime Ohio fishing license!

At Lakeside Pro Bass Shop, anglers can find everything they need for a successful fishing expedition, along with hunting, boating, and camping supplies. From top-of-the-line fishing tackle to specialty lures like Nasty Nates and Big Joshy, the shop caters to both seasoned anglers and novices alike. Additionally, the on-site 18-hole miniature golf course offers a unique recreational experience, complete with an 1820’s-inspired fort that adds a local historical touch to the family-friendly attraction.

In 2024, Lakeside Pro Bass Shop is eager to see continued growth in the local fishing community. Despite what the vegetation problem conveys, reports owner David Harshbarger, Indian Lake continues to produce an abundance of fish that are even bigger and more plentiful than the past. Fishing expeditions are anticipated to be as rewarding as ever in Logan County!

For aspiring entrepreneurs, Lakeside Pro Bass Shop’s advice is simple yet profound: “Say what you mean and mean what you say.” Honesty, integrity, and a genuine passion for serving the community have been the cornerstones of their success for over seven decades. As a testament to David’s commitment to excellence, Lakeside Pro Bass Shop and Mini Golf remains a beacon of hospitality, recreation, and community engagement in Logan County and beyond.

Lakeside Bass Pro and Mini Golf is located at the corner of Duff Road and State Route 235 North in Lakeview and is open 7 days a week from 6am-8pm currently. You can find more information about them on their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/LakesideProBassShop/ or give them a call at (937) 843-2488.

Please join us in congratulating Lakeside Pro Bass Shop and Mini Golf for being the Logan County Chamber of Commerce May 2024 Business of the Month!