WELCOME TO THE NEIGHBOURHOOD: COOPS BAIT & TACKLEAugust 26, 2023News Our Executive Director, Kerry Neil, was lucky enough to sit down with David Cooper, the owner of Downtown Squamish’s newest business, Coops Bait and Tackle, and found out all about his drive and passion for outdoor recreation.
The breathtaking natural beauty and outdoor adventures Squamish offers are no secret to Squamish locals. However, for David Cooper, a passionate outdoorsman hailing from Ontario, it was apparent that something was missing in our picturesque town: a hub for fishing and outdoor recreation. David saw this gap as an opportunity and significantly changed his life and Squamish residents’ lives. Thus, his journey began to establish the go-to outdoor store Coop’s Bait and Tackle.
Growing up in Ontario, David had an innate connection to the great outdoors. Fishing, hunting, and exploring the wilderness were hobbies and a way of life. The lure of British Columbia’s rugged landscapes and outdoor possibilities eventually led him to Squamish. However, he noticed a significant void upon arriving in our scenic coastal town. There was no dedicated fishing, hunting, or outdoor recreation store to cater to the needs of our community.
“Getting to know the people of Squamish and becoming a part of the fishing and hunting community are my favorite things about owning this store,” Cooper enthusiastically states. He found immense joy in meeting fellow outdoor enthusiasts and introducing newcomers to the wonders of the natural world. For him, it’s not just about selling equipment; it’s about fostering a connection between individuals and the outdoors.
As a seasoned entrepreneur, David has some valuable advice for fellow business owners in the community. “Seek help when you need it,” he advises. David emphasizes the importance of tapping into Squamish’s wealth of resources and supportive individuals. He also encourages entrepreneurs to stay true to their dreams and embrace originality. Rather than replicating existing successful ventures, David believes that uniqueness is the key to standing out in the vibrant Squamish business landscape.
One of David’s fondest memories of running his store so far, has been helping youth acquire their first fishing setups – rods, reels, and tackle boxes. Witnessing the excitement and enthusiasm in the youth as they prepare to embark on outdoor adventures fuels his determination to make the outdoors more accessible for everyone. In an increasingly digital and urbanized world, reconnecting people with nature has become David’s primary goal.
In addition to running his store, David is a big fan of exploring other local businesses in Squamish. He loves to visit vintage and artisan stores and supports creative entrepreneurs like himself. Some of his favorite establishments include F as in Frank, Catalogue Boutique, Valhalla Pure, Grateful Giftshop, Empire of Dirt, and Pearls.
“Fishing and the outdoors are for everyone. GO OUTSIDE,” David passionately declares. With his outdoor store as a testament to his commitment, David is bringing a new dimension to Squamish’s outdoor community and inviting everyone to embrace the beauty and adventures the natural world has to offer.
- Written by Kerry Neil, Executive Director
Our Executive Director, Kerry Neil, was lucky enough to sit down with David Cooper, the owner of Downtown Squamish’s newest business, Coops Bait and Tackle, and found out all about his drive and passion for outdoor recreation.
The breathtaking natural beauty and outdoor adventures Squamish offers are no secret to Squamish locals. However, for David Cooper, a passionate outdoorsman hailing from Ontario, it was apparent that something was missing in our picturesque town: a hub for fishing and outdoor recreation. David saw this gap as an opportunity and significantly changed his life and Squamish residents’ lives. Thus, his journey began to establish the go-to outdoor store Coop’s Bait and Tackle.
Growing up in Ontario, David had an innate connection to the great outdoors. Fishing, hunting, and exploring the wilderness were hobbies and a way of life. The lure of British Columbia’s rugged landscapes and outdoor possibilities eventually led him to Squamish. However, he noticed a significant void upon arriving in our scenic coastal town. There was no dedicated fishing, hunting, or outdoor recreation store to cater to the needs of our community.
“Getting to know the people of Squamish and becoming a part of the fishing and hunting community are my favorite things about owning this store,” Cooper enthusiastically states. He found immense joy in meeting fellow outdoor enthusiasts and introducing newcomers to the wonders of the natural world. For him, it’s not just about selling equipment; it’s about fostering a connection between individuals and the outdoors.
As a seasoned entrepreneur, David has some valuable advice for fellow business owners in the community. “Seek help when you need it,” he advises. David emphasizes the importance of tapping into Squamish’s wealth of resources and supportive individuals. He also encourages entrepreneurs to stay true to their dreams and embrace originality. Rather than replicating existing successful ventures, David believes that uniqueness is the key to standing out in the vibrant Squamish business landscape.
One of David’s fondest memories of running his store so far, has been helping youth acquire their first fishing setups – rods, reels, and tackle boxes. Witnessing the excitement and enthusiasm in the youth as they prepare to embark on outdoor adventures fuels his determination to make the outdoors more accessible for everyone. In an increasingly digital and urbanized world, reconnecting people with nature has become David’s primary goal.
In addition to running his store, David is a big fan of exploring other local businesses in Squamish. He loves to visit vintage and artisan stores and supports creative entrepreneurs like himself. Some of his favorite establishments include F as in Frank, Catalogue Boutique, Valhalla Pure, Grateful Giftshop, Empire of Dirt, and Pearls.
“Fishing and the outdoors are for everyone. GO OUTSIDE,” David passionately declares. With his outdoor store as a testament to his commitment, David is bringing a new dimension to Squamish’s outdoor community and inviting everyone to embrace the beauty and adventures the natural world has to offer.
- Written by Kerry Neil, Executive Director
