Around the turn of the twentieth century, when technology advanced to the point where goods could be produced cheaply and efficiently in factories, mass-produced rods, reels, hooks, and lures were introduced to a market eager to snap them up. These articles are usually clearly marked with the names or symbols of their manufacturers. Because copyrights were vague at that time, manufacturers often copied one another’s designs, making only minor changes before marketing their own versions of popular lures and tackle. Later in the twentieth century, lengthy lawsuits followed such practices.
Pflueger and Shakespeare, two of the most famous tackle companies in twentieth century U.S.A., were embroiled in a long, complex legal battle over the design of a fishing reel during this time. Much of this early factory-made tackle is still around, and a bit of diligent searching and research can yield an interesting collection.
Fishing Tackle Material Changed After WWII
Two materials that resulted from military development changed the look and performance of fishing tackle dramatically. These were fiberglass and monofilament. Prior to WWII, fishing rods were made from bamboo, wood, or metals. Steel rods were strong and resilient favorites for casting heavier lures, while bamboo still ruled the world of fly fishing. Fiberglass proved to be everything a rod manufacturer could wish for – light, flexible, durable, and cheap.
Before the introduction of monofilament fishing line, natural materials such as cotton and gut were used. These lines required meticulous care. Special wooden racks were used to dry the lines, so as to avoid mildew and stiffening if the lines were put away wet. Monofilament could be left to dry on the reel with no ill effects, and it was transparent, as well. Natural fishing line fell out of favor almost overnight. Fiberglass and monofilament provide a demarcation line for collectors who are unsure about the age of vintage equipment.
Fishing Tackle and The Age of Advertising
Along with the post-war economic boom came an unprecedented bombardment of advertising. Fishing enthusiasts enjoyed artistic, full-color advertisements touting the wonders of the new rods, reels, and lures, all made from modern materials that promised to make their favorite pastime even more productive and enjoyable. Collectors can combine their vintage gear with the advertisements that accompanied them, which makes an interesting display.
Information for Fishing Tackle Collectors
Before perusing the internet, resale shops, and flea markets, it is necessary to acquire some information about various types of tackle and appropriate prices. An excellent source is The National Fishing Lure Collectors Club (N.F.L.C.C.). This club, based in Mansfield, Texas, maintains a directory of active members and sponsors sales and shows throughout the year. Many of the members buy and sell tackle, often specializing in particular manufacturers or types of tackle.
Scott Heston’s self-published book, Ohio Made Fishing Lures and Tackle, ISBN-1-4196-0367-1, is a nearly exhaustive treasury of information on his topic, including prices. Heddon Plastic Lures, Russell E. Lewis, kp books, 2005, is jam-packed with color photos and lure descriptions. For collectors who have a deep interest in the history of fishing reels and reel manufacturers, Eclectic Essays on the History of Enterprise Manufacturing, Makers of Pflueger Fishing Tackle, Dr. Todd E.A. Larson, The Whitefish Press, 2006, is a fascinating read.
The story of twentieth-century fishing equipment is an excellent depiction of one aspect of the history of twentieth-century America. People who want to learn more about vintage fishing tackle will find that there is a world of fascinating items just waiting to be discovered, identified, and displayed.
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