Diane Swarthout - The Mom. Diane founded "Swarthout’s Bait & Tackle Shop" May 8, 1987, Originally located On Pennsylvania Avenue, Elmira. The original vision of the shop was to be a "Live Bait" shop, it didn’t take long for Diane to realize it would become a full service Live Bait & Tackle Shop. Back then Diane was famous for her fear of worms and could be found in the back room pre-packing worms wearing rubber gloves. This was the case that is until she found herself in a predicament when she was fresh out of pre-packed worms. Not wanting to embarrass herself she was forced to pack the creepy crawlers by bare hand. Needless to say her fear quickly passed and today has no problem picking up any number of bugs, aquatic incests or worms we currently carry. With a passion for the sport and a love for the wonderful customers she has built a relationship with over the past 20 plus years, Diane is what we affectingly call our" retirement reject" not willing nor wanted for that matter, to leave the business she built.

Melissa Swathout, Rinker - The Daughter. Melissa could always be seen in the bait shop, just 10 years old when the bait shop first opened it’s doors. Melissa had an interest in everything that was going on. Customers have watched her grow, friendships and bonds have developed over the years. In 2002 Melissa and Diane partnered together and in so doing turned a corner that would lead to the success we have today. The bait shop was re-named "Swarthout's - Nickle Creek Bait & Tackle Shop". In part to recognized the growing business as well as to pay tribute to the five Native American Nations that surround our beautiful county. Never forgetting our roots, the name changed but the simple family atmosphere and style that we do business in will forever be the way "Mom" intended it to be.

Holly Ryan - The Sister-In-Law to Melissa. Holly became "one of the girls" in 2004 at the age of 14. Holly started by volunteering at the shop and today is a valued employee. She fit in easily with no fear of the bugs we handle on a daily bases. Her eagerness to engage and communicate with the customers easily makes her a welcome addition to our growing bait shop family.