After Hurricane Milton, Jeremy Lee, owner of Premier Tackle in Manatee County, reports a gradual recovery in his fishing tackle business, with sales beginning to rebound nearly a month post-storm. He explains that essential sales such as clothing and sunglasses remained unaffected, while tackle and bait sales declined as customers prioritized rebuilding efforts. Operating successfully in the Lakewood Ranch area, Lee considers his business lucky for sustaining minimal damage compared to regions closer to the Gulf of Mexico. He recalls his previous expansion into Naples, which was cut short by Hurricane Ian, leading to the closure of that store just six months after opening. Lee notes the area’s appeal to fishing enthusiasts, particularly those with second homes nearby.

His story highlights the resilience of local businesses amidst the challenges posed by hurricanes and the shifting dynamics of community priorities. The article serves as a testament to the broader economic impact of natural disasters on small businesses in Florida. Through Lee's experiences, readers gain insight into how hurricanes reshape business operations and customer behavior in the region.