WHO WE ARE

ABOUT US

HISTORY

On February 14th, 1979, two Houson-native brothers, Joe and Danny Meyer founded a fishing tackle/marine accessory retailer named Cut Rate Sporting Goods, which now operates under the title of Fishing Tackle Unlimited.

Joe and Danny had fishing instilled in their blood from their father Johnnie Meyer, who was an avid fisherman.  The Meyer Brothers began their careers at Heights Tackle House in the early 1960’s.  Joe eventually went to the University of Houston to study Business, and later he served as a Regional Sporting Goods Manager for K-Mart.  Danny joined the Air Force.  After his service, Danny became a Sales Representative for various tackle manufacturers.  Their experience and passion for fishing, business and retail lead them to the idea of opening their own tackle store.

“We finally decided to open our own retail store.  In 1979, we got a 1,250 square foot store on Telephone Road, stocked some quality inventory that was a good fit for local fishing, put up a ‘Cut Rate’ sign, and were in business.” – Joe Meyer, Founder and CEO of FTU

In 1984, we opened our second store off I-10 in the Houston/Memorial area, known to us as our Katy Freeway store, and the stores began operating as Fishing Tackle Unlimited.  In 1990, we opened Gulf Coast Trolling Motors next to our store on Telephone Road.  Gulf Coast Trolling Motors carries a selection of trolling motors and electronics and serve as a Warranty Center for MotorGuide and Minn Kota. 

With the fishing market growing and our new store going strong, the decision was made in 2002 to move our original store on Telephone Road, along with Gulf Coast Trolling Motors, to a 38,000 square foot building now known as our Gulf Freeway location.  The move led to us being known as the World’s Largest Tackle Store.

“That was a major commitment, but saltwater fishing was really growing, and it is a great location on the main artery from Houston to Galveston.  Most people heading for the beach do their tackle shopping on the way down, not on the way back, and we’re on the southbound side at the Fuqua exit.  It’s also near the Sam Houston Toll Road.” – Joe Meyer, Founder and CEO of FTU

Joe and Danny Meyer still fish often.  You’re likely to catch them somewhere along the Gulf Coast testing the products their stores sell to ensure they provide only the best for their customers.


MISSION STATEMENT

Our goal is to provide all fishermen and fisherwomen with the best quality and selection of tackle and gear through courteous, competent, and professional service in an impeccably comfortable, clean, and secure atmosphere that will encourage customer satisfaction.


WHAT SETS US APART

Fishing Tackle Unlimited is the largest independent dealer for Shimano, Simms, Costa Del Mar, Daiwa, Jackson, and many more brands.

We have a complete Fly Department equipped with 5 experienced fly fishermen.  In addition, we have complete departments for Blue Water, Trolling Motors Sales, Service and Installation, Rod Building, Kayaks Sales and Rigging, and Fishing Apparel and Gear for Hot and Cold Weather.  Fishing Tackle Unlimited is also capable of outfitting the largest of Sport Fishing boats.

ASSOCIATES

Our sales staff is full of experienced fishermen and fisherwomen equipped with expertise and personal advice to assist with all your fishing needs.  Providing expertise and exceptional customer service are top priorities to our staff.

PRO STAFF

Fishing Tackle Unlimited has assembled some of the best professional anglers on the Gulf Coast. All these anglers are full-time professionals who spend most of their days on the water. From the Calcasieu River in Southwest Louisiana to the sandy shores of South Padre Island, our pros are the best of the best. Check out their bios on our Pro Staff Page.

COMMUNITY

Fishing Tackle Unlimited is a long-time supporter of the Coastal Conservation Association, dating all the way back to the old Gulf Coast Conservation Association.  We also support the Houston Fishing Show each year, as well as many other popular events in the Houston area.