Hardware Hank — Local services in Howard Lake

Joe's Sport Shop is the kind of store I love to find--something unique in this world of big-box stores. Joe's Sport Shop handles a fair amount of fishing tackle and live bait, but it also is a hardware store. The staff are helpful, but not pushy, and I love stealing away a little time to simply browse the aisles.

Sure, the big box stores might be able to price many items lower than they can be found at Joe's, but those stores are far enough away that I lose any savings by having to drive that far (at least 25 miles each way), when Joe's is just the next town over, not far from the middle school my children attend. Besides, it's a great starting point if you want to pick up bait to fish one of the many lakes in the area.

Aside from hardware, fishing gear, and bait, you can ask about the local fisheries and hear about where it may be hot (or not). They've also got some sheets posted near the door that show some of the big catches in the area. Patrons are free to come in and show off their prized catch. Who know? Maybe you'll get a chance to see your picture on the wall there someday.

Overall, it's a wonderful store with that small-town appeal! If you're ever near Howard Lake, take some time...

What make this store special is the integrity of the owner and his staff. Yes maybe price lower somewhere else, if you have time to shop in a warehouse. But the warehouse will never treat you like a human. Joe and his team will help me load my truck with whatever I need. The kind personal touch, resourceful information, willingness to locate what I need (even a lost dog) is what make this business 5 stars in my book. I have paid plenty for poor service. At Joe's I have always gotten the best service. This owner and his shop is TOP NOTCH. Customer service win out every time. THANKS! See you the next time I need to fill...

I'm in Cokato if I need something construction Hardware paint nails whatever anyting I think I need it Menards or Home Depot, they're too far away from me I just run the Hardware Hank and they always have it, I'm ready to print my own t-shirts, I put on at something like, if you need it and you need it now head to Howard Lake, and because I'm fairly new to the area if I have a question on a service or where to get something done where to spend some more money, they're really good at advice for that, don't even tell me if the fish are...