Featured Shop: Lazy Baits Co.Handcrafted Lures, Community Connections, and the Passion of Anthony Entler

I had the pleasure of interviewing Anthony Entler, the founder of Lazy Baits Co., a company known for its handcrafted lures and passionate engagement with the bass fishing community. Entler’s journey is a testament to turning a personal hobby into a meaningful and impactful business. His story not only sheds light on the artistry of lure-making but also highlights the importance of community and staying true to one’s roots. Here’s a glimpse into Anthony's world and what makes Lazy Baits Co. a standout in the fishing industry.

A Passion Born Out of Curiosity

Lazy Baits Co. began as a personal challenge for Entler. “It started out of my love for fishing and my curiosity to always learn something new,” he shared. “I’ve always enjoyed figuring things out and challenging myself, so when I got into making lures, it was just about seeing if I could create something that worked—and worked well.”

While his wife may have initially introduced him to bass fishing, Entler quickly turned it into an obsession. “Bass are challenging, unpredictable, and just plain fun to chase. They keep you on your toes, and that constant learning curve is what hooked me,” he said. But for Anthony, it’s more than just the thrill of the catch. “The bass fishing world is full of incredible people who share the same excitement for the sport. It’s about being part of something bigger and contributing to a community that makes the whole experience even more rewarding.”

Crafting Art in the Form of Lures

Anthony's lures stand out for their unique designs and detailed craftsmanship, a process he approaches with care and dedication. “The ideas come from a mix of places—sometimes they’re my own concepts, other times they’re ideas shared by other bait makers I work with, or even suggestions from the fishing community,” he explained. Each lure undergoes rigorous testing and refining before it reaches the market. “I’ll take the prototype to the water and see how it moves, how fish react, and what needs improving. There’s always something to tweak—whether it’s the weight, balance, or action.”

When asked about his favorite lure design, Anthony said “The Bat-tle Rat has to be my personal favorite. It was a true collaboration between me and my good friend Trevor of Peak Baits. On the night we launched it, I landed a 6lb 15oz bass with the Bat-tle Rat, tying my personal best. That moment was surreal—it felt like validation for all the hard work we’d put into the project.”

Overcoming Challenges in Lure Craftsmanship

Handcrafting lures comes with its own set of challenges, but Entler views these hurdles as opportunities to improve. “One of the biggest challenges is getting everything to work just right—the design, balance, and action of a lure have to come together perfectly,” he noted. The process involves a lot of trial and error, from initial design to prototype testing. “Overcoming this requires patience and persistence. I test prototypes extensively and don’t rush the process, repeating steps until the lure meets my standards.”

Entler’s commitment to quality is evident in every lure he creates. “It can take several rounds of refining, but that’s part of the fun and what makes each lure special.”

Building a Community Through Connection

Lazy Baits Co. is more than a business for Entler; it’s a way to connect and give back to the bass fishing community. Through giveaways, customer engagement, and programs like the Lazy Baits Legends initiative, Anthony fosters a sense of camaraderie among anglers. “Giveaways aren’t just about promoting our products—they’re about giving back to the people who support us,” he said.

Customer feedback is another cornerstone of Lazy Baits Co.’s success. “For me, the process doesn’t end when a lure is finished—it’s only the beginning,”. “Hearing from the anglers who use my lures gives me invaluable insight into what’s working and what can be improved.”

One of his most rewarding experiences has been working with Take a Warrior Fishing. “Not only have we hosted fundraisers, tournaments, and donated proceeds from lure sales to support their mission, but I’ve also had the honor of personally taking a few warriors fishing,” he recalled. “Those moments were unforgettable.”

Innovating in Social Media Content

Anthony's approach to social media is as authentic as his lure-making. “When it comes to social media, I honestly just try to be myself,” he said. His content blends humor, fishing tips, and behind-the-scenes looks at his process. “Fishing has always been about having fun, learning, and connecting with others, so I let that come through in my posts. If I’m having a good time creating the content, chances are the audience will enjoy it too.”

This genuine approach resonates with his audience, fostering a loyal community that values both his products and his personality. “The humor and tips are just a reflection of how I see the sport—equal parts challenging and entertaining.”

Staying True to the Journey

As a small business owner, Anthony has learned the importance of patience, adaptability, and authenticity. “Building a business takes time, and nothing happens overnight,” he said. “I’ve learned to embrace the process, celebrate the small wins, and stay focused on the bigger picture.”

Looking ahead, Entler envisions Lazy Baits Co. growing as a trusted brand while staying true to its creative roots. “A big part of that vision is expanding LB Co. Designs, where I share more behind-the-scenes content about bait making and help other bait makers bring their ideas to life. Collaborating with others and showcasing the process is something I’m passionate about.”

Giving Back and Looking Forward

His dedication to the bass fishing community extends beyond his products. His work with organizations like Take a Warrior Fishing underscores his commitment to using his platform for good. “Spending time on the water with these incredible individuals, sharing stories, and seeing the joy fishing brings to them is something I’ll always cherish,” he said.

As Lazy Baits Co. continues to grow, Anthony remains focused on the values that have brought him success: passion, creativity, and connection. “Fishing has always been about having fun, learning, and connecting with others. The more authentic I am, the more fulfilling and successful the journey has been.”

Final Thoughts

Anthony Entler’s story is a reminder that passion, creativity, and community can lead to something truly special. Lazy Baits Co. isn’t just about lures—it’s about the connections, memories, and joy that fishing brings. You can find and support Lazy Baits Co. through their website, social media platforms, or by joining their ever-growing community of anglers. “The fishing industry is full of passionate people, and I’ve found that being genuine and focused on what I love has been the key to building trust and making Lazy Baits Co. what it is today.”

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