Avid fisherman Steve Wallace’s hobby took on a life of its own, growing into a career and allowing him to build a legacy of craftsmanship.
Q: What first drew you to bait-making, and how did it evolve from interest to craft?
A: After moving to the Ozarks in 1997, I realized how hard it was to find custom baits. In 2020, I started making my own baits with just four molds. Friends around the area started asking for them and it grew from there. Today, I work with 300 molds, creating custom baits for anglers locally and across the country.
Q: What is different about your baits?
A: I make, test, and package everything myself, and I can tailor baits to the specific waters people fish around Springfield. I can customize bait to match the fisherman’s needs and have even received some international orders. I can mix colors or combine two colors into one bait. This becomes important because sometimes the fish around here get finnicky. Something as simple as changing the tail color on your bait can make the difference in getting the fish to react to it. I also buy my plastic from a Missouri-based company. I try to support businesses locally, or at least from Missouri, whenever I can.
Q: Why is Springfield still such a thriving community of true American craftsmanship?
A: To start, we live in a beautiful area and the people are great. There is so much support given to local craftsman, and that allows me to give back to the community. I support local school fishing programs, sponsor young local fisherman, and attend community events. Everything I’ve been able to do is more than I’ve ever dreamed of. Some days it’s hard, but it’s not about making money. It’s about providing customized, high-quality products to customers and leaving a legacy for my grandson.
Q: What is one of your favorite memories as a craftsman in the Springfield area?
A: I went to a swap meet in Kimberling City and took my bait out there to sell. A little boy, about 3 years old, came through and I gave him a bunch of free stuff from my table. He was so happy. Now, years later, he continues to swing by my booth at the event each year.
Visit https://www.ozarkmountainbaits.com/ to learn more.
Woodworking is a source of pride for owner Dylan McNew and his father. Each piece they create is handcrafted and locally sourced, keeping business close to home.
Q: How did you get into woodworking?
A: Woodworking started as time spent with my dad. He built his career in construction, and I grew up around that work. After graduation, I explored other paths but kept coming back to this. My dad and I always enjoy making things together, like cabinets or refinishing tables. Eventually, it became something more and we launched Ozark Tailored Timbers.
Q: What makes your approach to carpentry unique?
A: Everything we do is local, from the wood we source to the relationships we build. Our goal is always to invest back into our community. It’s about supporting the local economy, working with neighbors, and creating something we’re proud of.
To view more, visit https://www.ozarktailoredtimbers.com/