News | Port St. Lucie

Fort Pierce Rejects All Bids for Little Jim Bait & Tackle Lease

October 16, 2025
8:48 pm

Fort Pierce has rejected all bids for the lease of the well-known Little Jim Bait & Tackle waterfront property, according to city officials. The decision leaves the future of this historic site uncertain and has drawn strong reactions from both applicants and the local community.

Little Jim Bait & Tackle Property: Bids Rejected by Fort Pierce

The main keyword, Little Jim Bait & Tackle, is central to the recent decision by the City of Fort Pierce to turn down every proposal submitted for the site’s lease. The property, which has served residents and visitors for decades, is now in a state of transition as officials determine the next steps. For those interested in the broader appeal of this location, discover Little Jim’s waterfront dining, drinks, fishing, and kayaking to see why it remains a beloved spot for locals and tourists alike.

Background of Little Jim Bait & Tackle

The Little Jim Bait & Tackle building is an 80-year-old structure with significant historical value. According to city records, the site has ties to U.S. Navy operations during World War II. Over the years, it has become a favorite destination for fishing, food, and local gatherings along the Fort Pierce waterfront.

Many residents describe the location as a classic piece of old Florida, retaining a rustic charm that draws both longtime locals and tourists. The bait shop and bar have been operated by Salty 3 Baitshack in recent years.

Details of the Bid Rejection Process

According to a statement from the City of Fort Pierce, five formal proposals were submitted to take over the lease for Little Jim Bait & Tackle. However, city officials reported that none of the bids met the required criteria to move forward. This decision was announced publicly during the week of the review, coinciding with the city’s efforts to modernize local amenities, such as unveiling three paid parking plans at beach parks to improve visitor experiences across Fort Pierce.

Who Submitted Bids for Little Jim Bait & Tackle?

Salty 3 Baitshack – Current operators of the property
Luigi and Drita Lucaj – Restaurant owners from Michigan
Bottoms Up Beverage of Florida – Based in Fort Pierce
Jetset Events LLC – With a location in Fort Pierce
HZIP LLC – Located in Dania Beach

Each of these groups submitted proposals outlining their plans for the site. According to city officials, all applications were evaluated against established requirements, but none were found sufficient to award the lease.

Applicant Reactions to the Decision

Salty 3 Baitshack, the current operators, declined to comment on the rejection of their proposal. However, Luigi and Drita Lucaj, who own restaurants in Michigan, expressed frustration with the city’s process. They stated that they felt their proposal closely followed the city’s recommendations and believe it received the highest score among the applicants.

The Lucajs have announced plans to file a formal protest regarding the decision. They indicated their proposal aimed to preserve the historic character of Little Jim Bait & Tackle while updating certain features to meet current needs.

City of Fort Pierce Statement and Next Steps

In a formal statement to WPTV, city officials said, “This outcome underscores the city’s commitment to maintaining a fair and transparent procurement process.” The city has not yet provided specific details on which criteria were not met by the proposals. According to officials, more information may be released as the process continues.

For now, Salty 3 Baitshack will continue to operate Little Jim Bait & Tackle on a month-to-month lease. The city plans to restart the bidding process, but no timeline has been announced. According to official sources, the situation remains fluid, and updates will follow as new decisions are made.

Community Sentiment About Little Jim Bait & Tackle

Many Fort Pierce residents have voiced support for keeping Little Jim Bait & Tackle as it is. Visitors describe the location as a unique part of the city’s waterfront, with one person stating, “Feels like the Florida that a lot of us remember from many years ago.” Others have said it would be disappointing to see the property change hands or lose its distinct character. For those seeking more outdoor experiences in the area, the recently reopened Frederick Douglass Beach Park now offers early access and horseback riding along the coastline.

Procurement Process and Transparency

The City of Fort Pierce has emphasized its commitment to a transparent and fair procurement process. According to the city’s statement, the rejection of all bids was based on established guidelines. Officials have not disclosed which specific requirements were unmet, and further clarification is pending.

According to official sources, the city will continue to review its options and is expected to open a new round of bidding. Details may be updated as the investigation and review process continues.

Frequently Asked Questions About Little Jim Bait & Tackle

What is Little Jim Bait & Tackle in Fort Pierce?

Little Jim Bait & Tackle is a historic bait shop and bar located on the waterfront in Fort Pierce, Florida. It has served the community for over 80 years and is known for its rustic charm and local significance.

How much longer will Salty 3 Baitshack operate Little Jim Bait & Tackle?

According to city officials, Salty 3 Baitshack will continue to operate the property on a month-to-month lease until a new leaseholder is selected. The timeline for a new bidding process has not been announced.

Are there plans to change the character of Little Jim Bait & Tackle?

Several proposals aimed to update the property while keeping its historic charm. However, the city has not approved any changes, and the future direction will depend on the outcome of the next bidding process.

Can you visit Little Jim Bait & Tackle now?

Yes, Little Jim Bait & Tackle remains open to the public under the current operators. Visitors can continue to enjoy the site while the city reviews its options for the lease.