Meet Deborah Mushock | Motel/lodge and Airbnb Owner

I think the most important factor behind my success is the perseverance to carry my vision forward. After spending the last 10+ years studying and creating art, I was able to channel my creativity into creating a unique guest room experience for the property. I wanted each of the eight fish-themed rooms to be special, with updated furnishings and décor to make every room appealing. I wanted to welcome not only the famed Lake Fork fishermen/fisherwomen but also add just enough East Texas lake chic to make the rooms desirable for family reunions and girls’ getaways.

My boutique motel offers a distinct personality, personalized service, and great amenities; all at a reasonable price point. After acquiring rental properties and maintaining long term rentals in Austin, Texas, I took a risk and purchased my first Airbnb in Yantis, Texas and discovered the great community around Lake Fork. With this success in the short-term rental market, I found I had a knack for the hospitality industry.

Upon acquiring the Reel Inn and Lodge last year (previously known as The Trophy Lodge), I renovated and upgraded the property and rooms. I upgraded several rooms with contactless check-ins for late arrivals or for guests who had COVID concerns and added streaming, live tv and free Wi-Fi. The next challenge was getting the word out about the new ownership and renovations. I also took a deep dive to learn about Lake Fork fishing to ensure my property would be attractive to guests who enjoy fishing as the boat launch dock is less than a mile from the property. My guests who fish absolutely love that they can park their vehicle and boat right outside of their room. In addition, I discovered locals and out-of-town guests especially love booking the Lodge for family reunions, girls’ get-togethers, and as a home-base for Canton Trade Days. With its full kitchen, bunkhouse room, and large private deck for grilling, it’s a perfect home away from home.

The Reel Inn and Lodge is conveniently located close to downtown Quitman, and to Canton, Mineola, and many other cute small towns for guests to visit for antiquing, shopping, and eating. East Texas has some amazing local activities and great people!

It’s all about fishing Lake Fork, world renowned for trophy bass, and less than a mile from the Reel Inn and Lodge. Day one, we would hire a guide to show us the hot fishing spots on the lake’s 27,000 surface acres for bass, crappie, catfish, and bluegill. We’re eager to attempt to beat the state record of the biggest bass caught by Barry St. Clair in 1992 weighing in at 18.18 lbs.! We’d start the morning early; fishing as the sun comes up, taking a break for lunch at the Neon Moon, then head out again late in the day for more fishing. Early evening, we’d get a burger at the Gateway Bar & Grill and call it an early evening so we can repeat the itinerary the next day(s). Mid-week, taking a break from catching too many fish, we’d head out to play a round of golf at The Links at Land’s End, less than three miles away and then lunch at Jacky’s Pub in the clubhouse. Followed by an evening walk around one of the nearby historic downtowns. By the end of the week, we’re content to relax and enjoy burgers and hotdogs on the grill at the outdoor covered pavilion and swap our best fishing stories of the week.

A week-long trip with my bestie non-fishing girlfriend?

We would start the day by grabbing a cup of coffee at the Speakeasy Coffeeshop in Quitman. Then as we head to Mineola we would stop into Waldo Way Dairy for their amazing treats. Then spend the day shopping downtown Mineola Main Street shops and antique stores; being sure to stop at the Periwinkle Shoppe. We would take a break from shopping to enjoy lunch at Logan’s Place or CowBurners BBQ & Taproom. In the evening, we could take in a show at the Select Theater or a show at the Bowery Stage; followed by a cocktail at the RNA Tavern.

Saturday morning, we’d head to the Winnsboro Farmers Market and relax with a picnic lunch. Sunday, we would head to the famous Canton Trade Days (held on the first weekend of the month) and spend the day discovering treasures.

A trip to Sulphur Springs would be another day trip. The stunning Hopkins County Veterans memorial, located downtown in Celebration Plaza, isn’t to be missed. The Plaza also features a lighted, interactive fountain in the shape of the Texas star, illuminated with ultraviolet light, and is a favorite with kids.  Sulphur Springs also has an attraction that’s both whimsical and practical; the only see-through public restrooms in the United States – built with one-way mirrors so people inside can see out, but those outside cannot see in. 

A trip to the Mineola Nature Preserve, 20 miles from the Reel Inn and Lodge, is a great outdoor activity. We’d grab a take-out lunch and some sweet treats at Your Appetites in Quitman on our way to the preserve; stopping on our way back to get a family dinner to-go which we’d enjoy back home on the outdoor covered pavilion.

We’d have to work in a trip to Emory, 14 miles from the Reel Inn and Lodge, for a visit to The Cinnamon Bear bakery and dinner at Stefanos Greek Kouzina for authentic Greek food.

I enjoy the support of the small towns of Mineola, Quitman, and all of Wood County. Joining the Quitman and Mineola Chambers of Commerce was a great networking opportunity and helped me to establish myself in the community.