Hooked on Quality Gear

Namon Garrett Rice, Owner and Founder of Barkley's Bait & Tackle, an avid outdoorsman with a lifelong passion for fishing, hunting, and connecting people with nature. Growing up in the mountains of North Carolina, Namon saw firsthand how outdoor traditions bring families and communities together. With years of fishing experience and a deep appreciation for conservation, he set out to create more than just a bait shop — a place where anglers of all ages can find the gear, knowledge, and encouragement they need to enjoy the outdoors.

Namon’s vision for Barkley’s is rooted in education, sustainability, and community. By offering quality bait and tackle, hosting tournaments, and promoting safe, responsible outdoor practices, he hopes to inspire the next generation to put down their screens, step outside, and experience the joy of fishing. For Namon, Barkley’s Bait & Tackle isn’t just a business — it’s a way to share his passion, protect local waters, and keep the tradition of fishing alive for years to come.

Meet Barkley

Barkley is the official mascot and heart of Barkley’s Bait & Tackle. This spirited Dachshund may be small in size, but he’s big on adventure — always ready to greet customers with a wagging tail and curious nose. Known for his love of the great outdoors (and sneaking treats when no one’s looking), Barkley embodies the fun, family-friendly spirit that makes our shop special.

When he’s not napping in the sun or riding along on fishing trips, Barkley takes his job as “Chief Morale Officer” seriously — reminding everyone that fishing is about more than the catch; it’s about joy, companionship, and making memories.

Barkley may not cast a line, but he’s always along for the adventure — proving that every great fishing story starts with good company.

Chris Dockery serves as the Product Manager at Barkley’s Bait & Tackle, bringing creativity, dedication, and hands-on knowledge of the outdoors to the team. A lifelong angler with a strong passion for fishing innovation, Chris plays a key role in developing and refining the products that make Barkley’s unique — including customer favorites like our signature CornCubes.

With an eye for detail and a commitment to quality, Chris ensures every bait and tackle product meets the needs of anglers across North Carolina and beyond. He’s not just behind the counter — you’ll often find him out on the water testing new ideas, gathering feedback, and turning those insights into gear that works in the real world.

As Namon’s cousin and right-hand man, Chris shares the same vision for Barkley’s: creating a bait and tackle shop that’s rooted in community, conservation, and a love for the outdoors. His energy and dedication help keep Barkley’s Bait & Tackle growing, evolving, and always focused on serving anglers first.