About
How we got started
Our history
“Like so many, the Covid-19 pandemic season hit us hard in many ways. As a pastor for 30-plus years, we found ourselves in the middle of an unexpected career shift. Not knowing where to go, the Lord led us to an idea that we had shelved in our minds as a possible venture in retirement. That idea was to run our own fried fish truck. Being an avid fisherman who grew up in Louisiana and Texas, fried fish was just a way of life. For us the fish fry wasn’t just a meal, it was an event for family and friends! The more the merrier.
Being from the South, we learned that good fried fish had to be flavorful, or it shouldn’t be served. You can fry just about anything and it will probably taste okay, but when you fry with flavors and flare from the South, you take it to the NEXT LEVEL!
Over the years of serving fried fish to literally thousands of people at church and in our home, we landed on an original homemade batter that is sure to please the pickiest of eaters. Our recipe has converted many, many people who were self-proclaimed “fish-haters”into “fish lovers.” Most fried fish is not necessarily distinctive in taste or it has a fishy taste and ketchup or tarter sauce is needed to enjoy. Not ours!
We pride ourselves in offering the best fish around and you will probably agree that no dipping is needed!”
– JD and Rhonda
"Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ."
Passing the torch, carrying the tradition
The dream continues
“In 2021, JD and Rhonda shared their vision of bringing the best fried fish to southwest Missouri in our local towns and neighborhoods. God blessed them immensely in this endeavor and they built a wonderful community focused on good fellowship and good fish.
Late in 2022, JD and Rhonda were called to return to the ministry and began the search for a torch bearer to carry on the Down South Fried Fish Co tradition. It was then that one of their long-time patrons, Lance Talley, and his family began to have very serious discussions about being the future owners of Down South. After a lot of prayer, thoughtful discussion, and the support of our friends and family, we made the leap and purchased Down South hook, line, and sinker with the goal of building on JD’s vision and dream.
Tonight, we would like to introduce ourselves as we continue the tradition that they have set forth. We were first patrons of the Down South and through God’s grace and guidance we assumed the responsibility of ownership. We are excited to serve you and cannot wait to meet you all in person. Thank you!
– Lance, Rebecca, Addy, and Izzy Feb. 11th, 2023
Where we are going
Continuing a vision, serving a community
Here at Down South Fried Fish Co. our Mission Statement is:
“To provide the best quality fried fish to southwest Missouri in an expedient and family friendly manner”
We continue to strive to accomplish this with every person who comes to our window. We have already added a second trailer to provide our flavorful fish to even more people and added more quality members to our team! Our hope is to grow to the point we have to alter the mission statement to include more than just Southwest Missouri. 🙂 We are constantly finding new ways to bring Down South to everyone each day including limited time food options, catering, and more. We hope you will come along with us on this journey!
