What makes Always 80 and Sunny baits different?

Every bait is hand-painted and airbrushed in our shop — no two are identical. We work in custom species patterns (bluegill, rainbow trout, brown trout, gar, perch, shad), splatter and craw colorways, and one-of-a-kind designs across squarebill crankbaits, multi-jointed swimbaits, glide baits, jerkbaits, lipless crankbaits, deep crankbaits, stickbaits, and topwater poppers, walkers, and frogs.

Where are the fishing charters located?

Our charters operate out of Columbia, Illinois in Southern Illinois. We offer inshore, offshore, and sunset trips — every charter includes tackle, bait, and a Coast Guard certified captain.

What's included with an Angler Pro membership?

Angler Pro is $19.99/month and includes secret fishing spot access, monthly tackle breakdowns, priority charter booking, and everything in the free Explorer tier.

Do you ship custom baits nationally?

Yes — we ship custom baits, tackle, and apparel anywhere in the United States. Free shipping on orders over $100.

How are the custom baits priced?

Pricing reflects build complexity and size. Squarebill and lipless crankbaits start around $24-30, jerkbaits and topwaters $28-42, mid-size multi-jointed swimbaits $65-95, and large hand-painted glide baits $120-220+ for trophy-class builds.

Thanksgiving Fishing Traditions: Why This Holiday Deserves More than a Cooler Ride

Thanksgiving week was always fishing week in my family growing up. That break from normal responsibilities is the perfect time to get on the water, enjoy nature, and create memories with people you care about. Whether you're planning to fish solo or with family, here's how to maximize your Thanksgiving fishing week.

Planning Ahead: Book your charter now if you want to fish during Thanksgiving week-guide availability disappears quickly. If you're fishing yourself, scout locations the week before so you know where you're headed. November weather is unpredictable in the Midwest, so have a backup plan if your primary location gets socked in with weather. Check all your gear now rather than discovering broken equipment on the water.

Realistic Expectations: Cold water and unpredictable weather mean slower bite rates than summer fishing. That's okay. The goal during Thanksgiving fishing is enjoying the experience and time with fishing companions, not necessarily catching huge numbers of fish. That mindset shift makes for better trips and more meaningful memories.

Make It Tradition: My family fished the same lake every Thanksgiving for 15 years. That consistency created something special-shared history in that particular place, the same locations fished at different life stages, and continuity across years. Consider making a specific location your annual Thanksgiving destination. A tradition becomes more valuable every year you continue it.