About The Angler
FIVE GENERATIONS OF SERVICE
Around the turn of the 20th Century, Charles Rollins Bunting (great-great Grandfather of the present Buntings) purchased the property where the Angler marina now stands. At that time there was no dock, only marsh grass through which the Buntings pulled their sail bateaux and row boats to shore.
While the elder Bunting worked on a fish pound boat, his 5 sons began the small fishing business. As business grew and a dock was needed, the Buntings were issued Ocean City's first dock permit. Lumber was brought in from West Ocean City by a scow, for the only access to the island other than by water was over a narrow railroad bridge. When completed, the Bunting dock became a favourite relaxation spot.
Local residents and visitors alike enjoyed sitting out over the quiet bay waters. As the years wore on, the 5 sons went on to pursue their own careers. In the winter of 1934, Charles' son William returned to Ocean City from North Carolina. A year later, he bought a house and property adjoining his father's dock. There he built a small 20'x20' building where he sold fishing bait, cool sodas and rented small boats.
His wife Louise, an enterprising young woman, started selling homemade pies. It soon became obvious that they needed to serve breakfast, lunch and dinner. Small tables were placed in the fishing office and it became a combined business adventure.
Along came WWII
The Captain and his boat (the Angler) were called to serve in the Coast Guard. When he returned, he found that storms had washed away nearly all of the old dock. A new dock and addition were built in 1945. By the spring of that year, William & Louise Bunting's only son, William Porter, returned from the Coast Guard and joined his parents in the business. He Captained the sport fishing boat, Sunshine, during the day and assisted in the operation of the restaurant during the evenings. His wife, Martha, participated in the family operation in much the same capacity as Louise.
The 4 Buntings continued to run the business until Bill Sr. retired (followed by Louise). Bill and Martha's 2 daughters then joined their parents. Now, 5 generations later, Julie and Jayne's children are learning the ropes of the family business. Julie's children Meegan Jayne, R.J. and Maura along with Jayne's son Porter are becoming integral parts of the Angler tradition.
Much of the history of the Angler Marina could not have been written without the loyalty and devotion of our staff. There are many who deserve accolades. The Bunting family looks forward to continuing to serve you, your children and their children in the manner to which they are committed. Of course, none of us would be here were it not for our many, many friends who have patronized us faithfully for over 80 years.
We, of the Angler, thank you.