JAY — Brian Condon and Mike Morin have opened two new businesses in a building that was once the high school and later the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

The two purchased the building on the corner of Oak Street and US Route 4 on Dec. 31, 2015. Since then, they have spent about $20,000 for renovations.

They opened Maine Power Wash Pros while trying to decide what to do with the rest of the building. They considered renting it but decided to open a bait and tackle shop instead.

They had sold bait through a bait club last year from Morin’s home. In about two months, they sold 300 dozen bait.

Morin said he is more of a summer fisherman. Condon is the ice fisherman. He can help anyone interested in starting out in the sport.

Fishing rods, bait, Jack traps and Eskimo ice augers are in stock at Spruce Mountain Bait and Tackle Shop. Parts, accessories and some apparel are also carried. Jet Sleds and tents can also be found.

Condon thanked Eric and Brittany Pomerleau and Shawn Soucy for their help in with the store which opened for business on Nov. 14.

Morin said the building had been vacant for about two years.  The openness of the display area allows for the exhibition of many items associated with the outdoors. A lounge area has been added which makes a nice place to sit and catch up. Free coffee is available when the pot is on, Morin said.

Soucy works in the store a couple days a week. He is also big on ice fishing and always seems to catch fish, Morin said.

Condon said there were more than 100 people in the bait club last year.  Club members receive a free dozen bait after purchasing twelve dozen. 300 dozen bait were sold in two months time.

“People who signed up last year will have their purchases carry over,” Morin said.

“We have a huge inventory compared to last year,” Condon said.

Spruce Mountain Bait and Tackle has great Christmas gift ideas. If not sure, gift cards are another option.

“I’m excited to see what the next two weekends bring,” Condon said. “We’ll be open on Black Friday.”

“This is a convenient location. It’s amazing how many ponds and lakes people fish around here,” Condon said.

Spruce Mountain Bait and Tackle Shop is open Monday – Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sunday, 8 a.m.-12 p.m. During ice fishing season , it will open at 6 a.m.

For more information call 207-320-1848 or check out the Facebook page Spruce Mountain Bait and Tackle.

pharnden@sunmediagroup.net