Bates Field & Stream — Local services in Mayflower

Funny story- Haven't stopped here in years, but came through yesterday for gas and a sweet tea because it was on the way to where we were headed and we forgot to stop at the other one. Mind you, this shop sits a stones throw away from Lake Conway, so theres a plethora of wildlife around here. When we pulled up, we saw a huge turtle crossing the side road in front of us, the younger kids got excited and wanted to see, so rather than unstrap the carseats, I hopped out to take an up-close photo of it to show them. When I got over there, I couldn't see the turtle anymore, it had gone further into the grass, and I stood there for a grand total of maybe 7 seconds like.. where'd it go? When I turned around to go back to the car, a woman employee had INSTANTLY made a mad dash outside to ask me "Can I help you with something?" As if I was some crazy loiterer that was out there bothering people (there were NO other customers here btw) Naturally, I immediately felt super offended- this wasn't an actual desire to help someone that she was exuding- she was being totally condescending, but I stayed cool and said, "Oh, no, I just saw a turtle and was gonna snap a pic for the kids but I dont see it anymore." She goes, "Oh yeah they usually head out toward the water." And sat there awkwardly for a second. I said, "....Yep..." and she said "OK thank you" and walked back in. My husband and I were like..seriously? that was very weird. He asks if I want to just go back into town right quick and I said no..its fine, Just go grab the teas right quick. And then he goes in to get the tea and..you guessed it..it was out of order. Apparently, he had to repeat the question "Do you have sweet tea?" to her multiple times before she actually comprehended what he was asking. This place had an overall dirty and strange, eery vibe to it, basically the same as when I was a kid. I do not recommend it at all. Stick to the ones in town, they're super friendly, clean and don't mind if you stand outside of your car for...

Bates' is the 2nd best place to go if you something going on in town or about a local person or nearby place. The first being Linda's Grocery. But could and eventually will bump into someone you know at Bates. If you don't then ask someone else there where the are. They'll help you find them. Great insight to local fishing. One stop shopping, fresh hot food, bait and tackle, friendly folks, free air,...

The people are very friendly and informative about whats going in the area regarding fishing at the bait shop. I like Bobby garland jigs for crappie fishing and they probably have just about every one you can think of. Also, they are always well stocked on the goldfish, trot line minnows, and rice slicks for those of you who love to flathead...