Hey, everyone! This is Rod and Reel news, and I can’t thank you all enough for your support. Your donations, memories, and photos—some going back to the ’70s—mean so much. Every memory you share, every idea you offer, and every donation to our Fund Me campaign makes a difference. It’s a long road ahead, but with you by our side, we’re making progress!
So, let me tell you a little bit about who I am and why I’m involved with Rod and Reel. My name’s Oli Lemke, and I’m from Berlin, Germany, where I live with my wonderful wife and four kids. I first came to the U.S. back in 1984 as a high school exchange student in North Carolina. I stayed with a family on a tobacco farm, did all the classic American high school things—football, basketball, farm work. That year left a big impact on me, and I’ve kept lifelong friendships from that time.
After returning to Germany, I went to college and became a brewmaster, eventually founding my own craft brewery in Berlin. Over the years, my team and I expanded to include four restaurants where we serve our beers. Even though I was based in Germany, I’d kept coming back to the U.S. often, visiting friends and enjoying the country. Part of me always wanted to bring my business over here too, but I wasn’t sure how.
Then, in the summer of 2022, opportunity finally knocked! I was at my son’s hockey game, chatting with a friend I’d known for years. He happened to be the son-in-law of the former owner of Rod and Reel, and he mentioned that his father-in-law was ready to sell. I’d visited the Rod and Reel once before, back when my family and I were on a trip in the area. My wife and I fell in love with its charm, so when I heard it was up for sale, I jumped at the chance. I got the owner’s contact info and called him up. After a lot of negotiation, we finally closed the deal on November 21, 2022. Owning Rod and Reel was a dream come true—I was now doing business on both sides of the Atlantic!
Since taking over, I’ve come to know the staff, customers, and community around Rod and Reel. It’s like one big family that feels as close to me as my brewery and restaurants back home. Now, we’re all working together to bring back this special place, and every bit of support helps.
Thank you for sticking with us, spreading the word, and being part of this journey. Stay tuned for more updates, and let’s keep going strong!