Est. Dorchester, New Hampshire

Your Line, Your Story — Start Here

From the first cast on a mountain stream to the quiet patience of a winter ice hole, we've got the gear and the know-how to make every trip count.

(603) 678-1723 Find Our Shop
Interior of Swamp Donkey Bait & Tackle shop with shelves of fishing gear
Our Story

Rooted in the Lakes and Rivers of Central NH

Swamp Donkey Bait & Tackle isn't just a store — it's a gathering place for anglers who believe the best conversations happen by the water. Located right on Route 118 in Dorchester, we've been supplying local fishermen and visitors with everything they need to make the most of New Hampshire's waters.

Whether you're chasing smallmouth along the Contoocook, setting tip-ups through the ice, or teaching your first kid to cast, we'll help you find exactly what you need — no fluff, just honest advice from people who actually fish these waters.

Locally owned & operated
Fresh bait daily
Expert local knowledge
All seasons, all waters
What We Carry

Everything for the Water

From live bait to landing nets, rods to reels — we stock the gear serious anglers trust, at prices that make sense.

Fresh live bait including worms, minnows, and crickets

Live Bait

Daily fresh worms, minnows, leeches, and crickets — kept alive and active so you can head out confident.

Selection of fishing rods for freshwater and saltwater Assortment of fishing lures and tackle

Rods & Reels

Top brands for every style — spinning, baitcasting, fly, and ice. We'll help you match gear to your target species.

Variety of fishing lures, hooks, and terminal tackle

Lures & Tackle

Hard baits, soft plastics, jigs, spoons, and everything in between. New arrivals stocked regularly.

Ice fishing equipment including augers and shelters

Ice Fishing

Augers, tip-ups, flashers, shelters, and ice accessories. Full season prep from September through March.

Coolers, tackle boxes, and outdoor fishing accessories

Accessories

Coolers, tackle boxes, vests, pliers, knotters, and the small things that make a big difference on the water.

Fishing licenses and outdoor regulatory information

Licenses & Permits

NH fishing licenses, trout stamps, and all the permits you need — handled quickly so you're on the water faster.

What Anglers Say

Trusted by Local Fishermen

We let the catch rate do the talking — but our regulars are happy to share why they keep coming back.

"Best bait shop in the region, hands down. They always know what's biting and what's not. Saved my trip to Lake Winnipesaukee last weekend."

Regular Angler
Dorchester, NH

"Brought my son here for his first fishing trip. The staff walked him through everything and made it an experience he'll never forget."

Family Fishing Trip
Concord, NH

"Honest prices, genuine knowledge, and they actually care if you catch something. That's rare these days. This is my go-to spot."

Weekend Warrior
Laconia, NH
Find Us

Come Say Hello

We're easy to find off Route 118, right in the heart of Dorchester. Pull in — we'll get you sorted.

Swamp Donkey Bait & Tackle

Address 1739 NH Route 118
Dorchester, NH 03266-6423
Hours Call ahead for current hours
Seasonal variations may apply
Is this your business?This is my business