Editor’s note: This Throwback was first published in Coastal View News in July 2008.
Reg Reynolds and his well-frequented bait and tackle shop at 586 Palm Ave. are the source of salty, sweet memories for many locals whose Carpinteria history stretches back a ways. Described by David Moore as “a little bit of a wonderland,” Reynolds’ shop, which was open between 1930 and 1972, held a wide assortment of fishing supplies, bait, an extensive candy counter, the infamous ledger for his popular Rod and Reel Club, a harem of cats, a collection of signed Hollywood portraits on the walls and his own detailed ink etchings of local landscapes.
“And if he really liked you, and he was in a good mood, he’d get the saw out and play songs for you,” said John Moyer, who seldom heard Reynolds play the saw. Moyer described him as a “salty” man who was giggled about on the Main School playground by the kids who regularly bought candy from his ancient counter. Young candy customers also remember Reynolds’ elderly father watching television in the shop, and Moyer recollects that Reynolds eventually put his father in a care facility because he regularly spit on the walls…