Lure Eyes Tackle
Lure Eyes Tackle
Big 5 Vintage Fishing Lure companies
Big 5 Vintage Fishing Lure companies
One of the first things a person new to the world of vintage fishing lure collecting will hear about are the so called “Big 5″ companies that dominate the news about the pastime. Knowing who these companies are (or were) and a little bit about them will go a long way towards alleviating any fears of someone new to the hobby who is feeling intimidated by all of the information available online.
The Heddon Company
The Heddon Company was created by James Heddon, the man who is given credit for the invention of the first artificial wood fishing lures in 1894. The often repeated story is that he had his light bulb moment when he tossed a hand carved wood plug into the waters of the Dowagiac, Michigan mill pond and watched as a bass struck it. With this insight an industry was born. The original lures were frogs hand carved from broomsticks by Heddon himself. The lures were originally made by hand in the Heddon family kitchen located in Dowagiac, Michigan, but by 1910 there was a new factory in Dowagiac and expanding sales.
The Lucky 13, Punkinseed, River Runt, and the Meadow Mouse are a few examples of this classic brand.
Creek Chub
Creek Chub was founded in 1910 by three friends in Garrett, Indiana. The company is named after the creek chub, which is a small fish commonly used for Live Bait by fishermen.
Henry Dills created Creek Chub’s first lure, The Wiggler, which had a metal lip that caused the lure to wiggle in the water leading more fish to strike it. Another early lure was the Pikie minnow. This bullet-shaped lure had more than one variation available, allowing for choices on the amount of movement in the water desired. The Open Mouth Weedless, later renamed the Open Mouth Shiner is another early lure. These lures were designed to be weed proof and featured long-shanked double hooks facing backwards so they would drag over snags without hanging on them. Open Mouth Weedless lures are a hard to find vintage fishing lure and all three of these are great examples of Creek Chub Vintage Fishing Lures and collector’s items.
One of Creek Chub’s most important innovations in the lure industry was the process of spray painting lures by spraying the paint through netting. Paint applied to this netting (originally from ladies’ hats!) was used to create the now common scale patterns on Creek Chub lures. Creek Chub was a very innovative company in other areas as well. Their early adoption of the use of glass eyes on lures and the invention of the weedless bait mentioned above are great examples of this spirit of innovation. Creek Chub also held numerous other patents related to lure improvements.
Pflueger
Ernest F. Pflueger founded the Enterprise Manufacturing Company in 1881 making fish hooks. When his son took over the business in 1906, it changed names to the E.A. Pflueger Company. During this time, Pflueger was the first company to open up commercial production of wooden fishing lures. The company would also grow from being only a hook maker to all areas of fishing gear. As competition in the industry became more fierce the company began to focus more on reels than lures.
Two of the lures that the company started with were the Flying Helgramite and the Luminous Crystal Minnow lure. These are two very vintage fishing lures from Pflueger that incorporate the founding E. Pflueger’s invention of a luminous lure paint.
Shakespeare
William Shakespeare, Jr. founded his company in 1897 with a first product that wasn’t a fishing lure. He started out with reels before expanding into the lure market. Shakespeare began making fishing lures around 1900 and the first catalog was issued shortly after that containing only four lures: the Revolution, Bucktail, Evolution and a Frog. The Shakespeare Revolution is one of the most collectible of the Shakespeare vintage fishing lures. Many of Shakespeare’s early products were rubber lures, including rubber frogs that mimicked real life motions of a frog when in the water. A very rare collector’s item is the Shakespeare Tournament Casting Frog, which is a prize find for any vintage Shakespeare fishing lure enthusiast.
South Bend Bait Company
South Bend was founded in the early 1900′s by F.G. Worden of South Bend, Indiana.
Worden had already been selling his Bucktail baits since 1894 prior to the official company founding. These bucktail baits were wooden minnow shaped lures that were invented and popularized by Worden. The South Bend Bait Company also made the famous Oreno fishing lures. The Oreno was also a minnow shaped lure and would become a popular long term seller for South Bend. The Bass Oreno, which started production around 1915 and was still in production into the mid 1960′s, was the most popular South Bend bait. Another popular vintage South Bend lure is The Vacuum Bait which can be quite hard to find and is a nice collector’s item.
Use this information
Now that you know more information about the “Big 5″ go and start using this knowledge to build your collection. Try going to a local Fishing Tackle show or event and with this starter information you will feel capable of holding your own in an initial conversation and start the network that will help you build your collection. Or if you want to go online to browse around for more information or to find out how to find items online, visit the website in the author box below.
About the Author
Vintage Fishing Lures is the resource for information related to collecting vintage fishing lures including how to start and build a collection and how to maintain it. Visit Vintage Fishing Lures for more information.
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In-Fisherman ”Tackle Crafting Today” Instructional Video – DVD $14.99 Crafting your own fishing tackle is very rewarding, and there?s no one better to learn this skill from than editors at In-Fisherman. This informative video, In-Fisherman Tackle Crafting Today, provides anglers with easy-to-follow, step-by-step instruction on how to make your own custom tackle. This full-length DVD delivers information on subjects such as safety, finding lead, melting equipment and different types of available molds. The video walks you through the steps to make several types of simple and advanced tackle including sinkers, jigs, weedless jigs and spinnerbaits. Plus, this instructional video shows how to turn your lure into a work of art by adding paint, hair, eyes, skirts and more. Tackle Crafting Today is a must have guide for all beginning tacklecrafters! 48 miniutes. |
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Tackle Industries Medusa Topwater Globe Musky Lure $19.99 Proven musky and pike producer Rotating globe head Oversized, 24k gold 3.5” front blade Thick, 24k gold 3? tail prop Through wire construction 7/0, 3x thick musky hooks 10” long; 3.6 oz. If you want topwater pike and musky action, then the Medusa Topwater Globe by Tackle Industries needs to have a home in your toothy-predator arsenal. Featuring a rotating globe head with an oversized 24k gold 3.5” front blade and a 24k gold 3” tail prop to generate maximum reflection, clatter and water disturbance, the Medusa gets noticed and attacked by musky and pike. Made super tough with through wire construction to withstand suicidal surface strikes, the Medusa?s blades are made from 0.032” gold, which is thicker than the standard so they won’t bend or break during a fish fight or while netting the fish. The Medusa Topwater Globe Lures can be fished in calm, rough, windy or any other conditions and are complete with quality components including two 7/0, 3x thick musky hooks. |
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Jake’s Li’l Jake Lure $3.19 The Li’l Jake is a downsized version of Jake’s Spin-A-Lure. It has the same length with less width, making it a lighter lure more appropriate for smaller waters. But at 1/6 oz., you can still cast the Li’l Jake a country mile. If you find a game fish that won’t tackle this lure, please let us know. Size 7 treble hook. Made in USA |
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Northland Fishing Tackle 32-Piece Slurpies Bass Jiggin? Tube Kit $14.99 Northland Fishing Tackle?s 3-1/2” Slurpies Jiggin? Tube is hand sculptured with a lifelike hollow-head tube body and tantalizing teaser tail specifically designed for jiggin? up lethargic largemouth and smallmouth bass. These Slurpies Jiggin? Tubes feature Holographic FishFlakes and lifelike 3-D eyes that flash an iridescent gleam to lure fish from afar. Plus, these Slurpies are salted and spiced with SowSauce formula that?s guaranteed to turn sniffers and lookers into big-time biters. Features: 26 jiggin’ tubes – 3-1/2” 6 jigheads 6-compartment utility box |
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D.O.A. TerrorEyz Fishing Lure $4.19 Introducing, D.O.A.’s TerrorEyz Lure, the first lure that actually makes eye contact with fish. Its unique holographic eyes shoot out flashes of reflected light which causes fresh and saltwater fish go crazy and strike! Outfitted with a hidden lead head hook which helps the TerrorEyz swim true every time out, this lure’s nose is built to bounce off rocks and other submerged structures. The TerrorEyz is most effective when fished in more than 4′ of water. 3″ body and a 1/4-oz. lead head. |
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Offshore Angler Surf Tackle Bag $34.99 Convenient tackle system for surf anglers Made from 600 denier with polyester bottom Adjustable shoulder strap Front bellowed storage pocket Side breathable pocket 100% zipper free Main pocket features two rows of 2″ lure tubes and one row of 1″ lure tubes This Surf Tackle Bag from Offshore Angler gives surf anglers a convenient tackle system with plenty of storage space that will not inhibit their casting. Made from rugged 600 denier with a polyester bottom, the Offshore Angler Surf Tackle Bag features an extra long shoulder strap that allows the bag to be worn over the shoulder or cross shoulder, bandolier-style for easy casting. The tackle bag’s main storage space houses one row of 1″ square lure tubes and two rows of 2″ lure tubes that protect lures while providing easy access. A quick access front pocket, side mesh pocket, and side pliers holder round out the features. Size: 13” x 7” x 10”. Color: Gray/Black. Imported. |
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Storm WildEye Live Goby Lure $4.29 Find a spot in your tackle box for Storm’s WildEye Live Goby because it’s the perfect all around lure for casting, drifting and slow trolling for smallmouth! Pre-rigged and sporting lifelike color patterns with Storm’s internal holographic flash foil finish, the durable, soft plastic WildEye Live Goby is weighted so it swims slowly near the bottom like the real thing. Three pre-rigged lures per pack. |
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Witchstix Molded Eyes $2.99 These soft, molded, 3-D stick-on lure eyes add color and flash. Made in USA. |
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Hart Tackle Buzzbait $3.99 The Hart Tackle Buzzbait is what you’re looking for if you want a heart stopping buzzbait that offers the right amount of bass-buzzing surface commotion to bring the monsters up for a meal. When the Hart Tackle Buzzbait’s blade starts churning it creates loads of vibration, flash, bubbles and water disturbance to imitate fleeing baitfish. Complete with high-quality components, including a durable and well balanced wire frame, patented Bait Clicker, lifelike 3-D eyes, premium Mustad Ultra Point Hook and a fine silicone skirt that delivers loads of strike seducing movement. |
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C Lures Stubby Bubbler Saltwater Lure $5.79 C Lures Stubby Bubbler is an exciting hybrid of the famous, fish-producing Lil’ Stubby Head and the notorious Lil’ Bubbler. Designed with additional holes in its head, the Stubby Bubbler produces a stream of bubbles below the surface of the water that dolphin and tuna zero in on. An awesome light tackle lure. |
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Northland Fishing Tackle Slurpies Holographic ”Paddle-Tail” Swim Shad Kit $14.99 Northland’s Slurpies Swim Shad is hand sculptured with an internally weighted shad minnow body, and features a wobbling paddle tail that swims and wiggles at super slow speed, just like a real shad minnow. The Slurpies Swim Shad sports a brilliant, holographic FishFlakes finish and lifelike 3-D eyes that combine to produce loads fish-attracting flash and realistic shimmer to lure fish in from afar. Plus, these Slurpies are salted and spiced with SowSauce Attractor Scent that?s guaranteed to turn sniffers and lookers into big-time biters. Effective when fished like a jig or a weedless spinnerbait on top. This 22-piece kit includes an assortment of 18 Swim Shad pre-rigged with Mustad Ultra-Point hooks (six 4″ and twelve 3″ lures), 4 Slurpies spinners, and a reusable 6-compartment utility box. |
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Kevin VanDam’s Line and Lure Conditioner $8.99 Designed to enhance the presentation of your line, Kevin VanDam?s line and lure conditioner is made specifically to work with today?s more specialized lines. While it positively affects the presentation of your line, the conditioner doesn?t leave an oily residue or make a mess on your tackle and hands like many silicone treatments. It adds yards to your casts, reduces casting effort, and virtually eliminates the frustrations of backlash and line twist. The result: more accurate casts more often with increased distance. Benefits Dramatically improves casting distance and control Extends line life and protects gear Eliminates tangles and twists No oily residue |
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Plano Magnum HipRoof Tray Tackle Box – 8616 $29.99 There’s no reason to leave part of your lure arsenal at home when you employ Plano?s Magnum HipRoof Tray Tackle Box 8616. Featuring six large trays with adjustable dividers to create 38 to 46 compartments, the Magnum HipRoof 8616 is designed with 20% more bulk storage space for pliers, scent sprays, GPS, and other gear. Integrated lure trays and can holders are more ways you?re able to take advantage of every inch of this tackle box. Double-sided latches secure fishing tackle. Color: Green/Sandstone. Size: 18-3/4” L x 12” W x 10-1/4” H. |
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Hart Tackle Justice Jig $2.49 The Justice Jig by Hart Tackle is one of the most versatile jigs ever developed and has the characteristics to make bass really commit to the strike. Effective in heavy-cover or bounced along the bottom, the well-balanced Justice Jig features a stand-up jighead design which lets it scoot across the bottom and stand-up in defensive position. The Justice Jig?s hook eyelet is recessed in the head to help it cruise through cover. Complete with 3D eyes, pulsating skirt, Mustad Ultra Point Hook and a detachable rattle system that?s properly positioned to call monster bass in for dinner. |
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Fishing Kit 2 -Flambeau Plastic Tackle Box, Storm Subwart, Strike King Red Eye Shad, Rapala Minnow Rap, Bandit Flat Maxx Crankbaits Deep and Shallow Runners $30.00 One tackle box with 4 name brand crankbait lures used for game fish. Mix between shallow and deep divers used for all different fishing situation…. |
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6 One Eye Jack FIRETIGER PRISM SPOONS NIP $4.99 6 FIRETIGER PRISM SPOONS. NEW IN PACKAGE! GREAT FOR THE BIG ONES! APROX 2 1/2 TO 3 INCHES LONG. WEIGHT NOT MARKED. GREAT FOR NORTHERN WALLEYE BASS. THESE ARE AN AWESOME BAIT AT AN AWESOME PRICE!! ZERO WEIGHT ADDED TO KEP SHIPPING LOW!… |
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Fishing: JR’s Tackle Diamond Eye Jig Kit The diamond eye sets these jigs apart from the rest. The diamond draws fish with added flash. Great for panfish when used with a waxie or plastics. 15 jigs in assorted sizes and colors per kit…. |
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Reef Runner Fishing Tackle Ripstick Moon Eye $6.56 A rattling minnow imitator designed to deliver a wide erratic action. This tournament winning jerkbait has a curved design, V-bill for speed, and nearly suspends without weights…. |