As the oldest shop in Wales, Arthur Bale has been in the sporting supplies business since 1898, serving the local and distant community. The enterprise was started from Arthur’s bed, when as a young man, he suffered serious and paralysing injuries during a rugby match. From his bed, at the age of 18, he made a small living tying flies and repairing rods. Fate brought a Harley Street surgeon to his bedside and he created the design for a unique leather harness that would enable Arthur to walk. Although Arthur could not return fully to his love of sports, he did go on to provide a valuable service for fishermen and later, sportsmen in Wales.

We are still a Fishing Tackle retailer as Arthur would have wanted, but have grown to include many other supplies and services, including gun retailing. As Arthur’s sons, we carry his heritage on today and in 2000 moved to larger premises with ample parking in order to meet ever increasing demand for our quality goods. We cover all types of fishing; coarse, game and sea with experienced staff available in every field to offer advice.

On the shooting side we specialise in used rifles, shotguns and air rifles as well as new and have a full repair service for all types of gun that we stock. We stock ammunition for all calibres and bores and have experienced staff willing to help and advise you. A valuation and testing service is also available. We stock many accessories that are part of the shooting world, including telescopic sights, lasers, dog training equipment, torches and knives.

We have grown in many ways that we are sure Arthur would be proud of. Clothing is another more recent addition to our stock and of course, centres on fishing and shooting. Waterproof clothing for both fishing and shooting, flotation suits, shooting waistcoats and jackets. Also, a broad range of waterproof boots and waders is now available.

From a long family tradition started in the worst of circumstances to a thriving sporting goods supplier, Arthur’s legacy has gone from strength to strength. The experience of two generations and the determination of a young man struck by injury have forged a strong business that is built on family traditions and pride; providing the best we can to our customers.