Signal Devices Patents (Class 43/17)
  • Patent number: 8635803
    Abstract: A buoyant fishing device with a housing having a first end and a second end and containing an elongated passageway having an axis, at least one weight disposed within the passageway, wherein the housing is further configured to float with the axis oriented substantially perpendicular to gravity when the weight is in the first position and wherein the housing is further configured to float with the axis oriented substantially parallel to gravity when the weight is in the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Inventor: Mark A. Cartwright
  • Patent number: 8631603
    Abstract: A fishing trigger device alerts the fisherman of a fish bite and at the same time releases the fishing line to offer sufficient slack line for the fish to swallow the bait. The fishing trigger device includes a holder adapted to be inserted into a ground, the holder including a one piece device including a container and a pointed end and a trigger supported by the container, the trigger adapted to secure a fishing line prior to a fish bite, the trigger adapted to release the fishing line after the fish bite.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Inventor: Don Remington
  • Publication number: 20130333269
    Abstract: A limb line fishing device having a length of fishing line and a hollow indicator tube, wherein the indicator tube slidably receives the fishing line. The indicator tube can be used to determine at a distance whether a fish has been caught. The fishing device is capable of securing a reusable line and a hook when the device is not in use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2013
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Inventor: Arthur I. Preller, JR.
  • Publication number: 20130326928
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a fishing line bobber includes a bobber body having a length and an exterior surface. The bobber body includes an aperture that extends through the length of the bobber body and a slot extending along the length of the bobber body and connected to the aperture through sidewalls that extend from the exterior surface of the bobber body inward to the aperture. The fishing line bobber includes a closing mechanism movable with respect to the bobber body between an open position that permits insertion of a fishing line into the aperture and a closed position that retains the fishing line within the aperture. The closing mechanism is configured to enable the fishing line bobber to function as an attachment bobber that maintains a fixed position on the fishing line and as a slip bobber that is moveable along the fishing line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2012
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Inventor: Patrick John Kavanaugh
  • Publication number: 20130318855
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for adjusting the buoyancy of a fishing bobber. The method includes providing a buoyant member and a stem guide configured to receive the buoyant member, mounting the buoyant member to the stem guide and cutting the buoyant member. The buoyant member is made of a material capable of being severed by a cutting device and having first length, a lower end, and an upper end. The stem guide receives the buoyant member and a fishing line with fishing tackle. The buoyant member is cut such that the buoyant member has a second length shorter than the first length. The buoyant member is cut to a second length such that the buoyancy of the buoyant member when cut to a second length is enough to oppose the tendency of the stem guide and fishing tackle to submerse the buoyant member such that a top surface of the cut buoyant member is adjacent to the surface of the water when the stem guide, buoyant member, fishing line and any fishing tackle are placed in the water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2013
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Inventor: Gary Bennis
  • Patent number: 8595972
    Abstract: A fishing rod enables viewing of pole bending activity in daylight and at nighttime. The rod has a light-transmitting pole for supporting a fishing line and having a handle end and a tip end. A collimated beam producing unit is located towards the handle end aligned to transmit a collimated beam into the interior of the pole in a direction towards the tip end. A reflector at the tip end reflects light back towards the handle end after exiting the tip end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Inventor: Daniel V. Foss
  • Publication number: 20130298440
    Abstract: A fishing line float and spool device is provided having a rounded, buoyant structure, and an arraignment that allows a length of fishing line to be independently supported from the water surface. The device comprises a first and second side having a perimeter flange and an inset channel therebetween for supporting the fishing line about the perimeter of the device. A plurality of notches is disposed through the flanges of each of the float sides. The fishing line attaches around the float and is extended therefrom, whereby the notches allow the line to be tied off such that when the line is struck by a fish the float flips over for notification purposes. The center of the float includes an aperture therethrough for assisting the user when tying off the fishing line, while also providing a support for an external hand crank reel or a lighted pole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2013
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Inventor: Henry Miller
  • Patent number: 8572886
    Abstract: The invention relates to a line of floats which allow for greater visibility during both day and night fishing. The greater visibility is created by a combination of one of more marker devices, including light sticks, flags, viz sticks, reflective surface, and/or use of chemiluminescent and phosphorescent materials. These objects and materials are used on a variety of floats, especially large floats such as jug floats and a new type of float termed a noodle float. These large floats are especially useful for catching large catfish and can be used in any body of water where fish are found, such as lakes, rivers, ponds, and the sea.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Inventor: Gary Bennis
  • Publication number: 20130227873
    Abstract: An ice fishing signaling device having a tip-up flag and/or electric light bite indicator, and a hooked fish indicator that is controlled by tension in the fish line is provided to alert a fisherman of the occurrence of hooked fish and the relative size and/or strength of the hooked fish. The hooked fish indicator has a tubular housing with a telescoping indicator rod that is spring-biased within the housing to resist movement. A sustained tension on the fish line equal to or exceeding the bite indicator trigger level is required to withdraw the indicator rod from the housing for signaling the presence of a hooked fish. The indicator rod increases resistance as it is withdrawn for the housing, thus providing a visual indication of the size and/or strength of the hooked fish.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2013
    Publication date: September 5, 2013
    Inventor: Troy Martin Coulson
  • Patent number: 8516738
    Abstract: One exemplary embodiment of the invention is a translation stage including a receiving portion adapted to receive a fishing reel, a mounting portion adapted for mounting to a fishing pole, wherein the receiving portion is movably affixed to said mounting portion along a first direction; and a force measurement device configured to produce a response indicative of the force between the base portion and the mounting portion along the first direction. Another embodiment is a fishing reel including a frame for supporting a line spool, a base portion, a line spool rotatably mounted within the frame, a mounting portion adapted for mounting to a fishing pole, the base portion is movably affixed to the mounting portion along a first direction; and a force measurement device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Inventor: David F. Pekin
  • Patent number: 8464461
    Abstract: A strike indicator that indicates when a fish bites and reduces false positives, comprising a light source, a power source, a printed circuit board, an accelerometer integrated circuit mounted on said printed circuit board, and a microcontroller mounted on said printed circuit board. The strike indicator may be housed in a fishing rod, with the light source illuminating the tip of the rod. The accelerometer detects acceleration of the rod, and the microcontroller utilizes an algorithm to determine whether the acceleration is due to a fish biting or due to other causes. If the acceleration is due to a fish biting, the light source is activated, alerting the user that a fish is biting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Inventors: James Perkins, Lorin Jacobson, Lucas Jacobson, Patrick Williams
  • Patent number: 8453372
    Abstract: An apparatus that holds a fishing pole in an unattended manner and utilizes a clamp that attaches to the fishing pole comprising a pair of appendages pivotally connected to a yoke in a balanced manner. Such positioning allows the pole to float or bob and enables a vertical removal from the yoke upon catching a fish. This articulating action is more likely to attract fish due to the movement of the lure. The yoke can be connected to a common tripod that sits on a bank or other solid ground near a fishing location or may alternately be fixed to various other structures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Inventor: Greg D. Moe
  • Patent number: 8375621
    Abstract: A device for holding a fishing pole. The device employing a hollow elongated pole holder for fishing pole with elongated slots wherein a trigger is positioned. The trigger is adjustable for various weights of poles and tackles. The trigger comprises a swing arm adjustable to weight of the fishing tackle. A signal indicates a strike on the line. Sensitivity of the signal can be adjusted. A frame holds the pole holder and the pole holder is angularly positionable in relation to the frame. Removable pins are used to hold the pole holder pivotably to the frame and to a mounting plate. Another removable pin allows the pole holder to be angularly adjusted. The device can mounted to boats, docks, the ground or to ice.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Inventor: David Tarr
  • Patent number: 8341869
    Abstract: An ice fishing trap comprising in its operational state a crossbeam dimensioned for extending across a hole in ice covering a body of water, and a hingedly coupled vertical mast. The vertical mast has a rotatable reel dimensioned to carry a length of fishing line and a hook. A trigger mechanism is provided, wherein a rotation of the reel causes an arcuate movement of a trigger hook. One aspect of the invention provides at least two stabilizer limbs hingedly coupled to the crossbeam, so as to form a general Z shaped support base when operational. In another aspect the fishing trap provides a trigger bolt coupled to an indicator spring, wherein the trigger bolt is utilized to couple the indicator spring to the trigger hook. The trigger bolt is slidingly supported by bolt guide, thus providing improved resistance to false indications due wind vibration and the like. Preferably, the trigger bolt is coupled to the indicator spring by a ring shaped coupler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Inventor: Ricky Rand
  • Patent number: 8336248
    Abstract: The invention relates to an electronic bite display (5) for displaying that a fish (13) has bitten the bait that is attached to the fishing line of a fishing rod (2) that can be placed on a fishing rod holder (1), said fishing rod comprising a reel (3) for reeling in the fishing line. The sensor of the bite display is an electronic acceleration sensor (B) and said bite display (5) comprises a console (21) that is secured between the fishing rod holder and a fishing rod stand (8), that protrudes approximately horizontally in the position of use and extends approximately parallel to the fishing rod (2). A pivoting shaft (27) that can pivot about a pivoting axis and that extends horizontally in the position of use is provided on the console (21). One first end of a pivoting arm (31) is pivotably mounted on the pivoting shaft, the other end supports the housing of the bite display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Inventor: {hacek over (Z)}eljko Mi{hacek over (s)}katović
  • Publication number: 20120291332
    Abstract: A tip up fishing device with a substantially vertical arm and a substantially horizontal cross arm, a holding pin at its end which pivots from a substantially horizontal position, downwardly, to a substantially vertical position. The pin holds a spool of fishing line, rotatably mounted. A strike of a fish moves the pin from horizontal position to vertical position, moving the spool of line from a substantially vertical inclination of the spool face, with the line under pressure, to a substantially horizontal position of the spool face, allowing the line to pay out without significant resistance. The pivotal movement of the axis pin which holds the spool, from horizontal position to a downward vertical position, triggers both a flag and an electric light notification. The lower end of the upright portion of the rigid support is adaptable to attach to different bases as a means for support.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2011
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Inventor: Linda K. Nolf
  • Publication number: 20120285071
    Abstract: A fish lure is provided with one or more fishing hook(s) and an attachment for a fishing line, the fishing hook(s) being arranged in a body and being connected to an actuator, a hook-shaped end portion of the fishing hook(s) being arranged to be moved between a first position, substantially enveloped in the body, and a second position, projecting from the body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2011
    Publication date: November 15, 2012
    Inventor: Tom Roar Eikebrokk
  • Patent number: 8302343
    Abstract: A fish strike signal that can selectively be placed in a storage position, a ready position or a deployed position. The signal has a main body with a storage ledge, a retainer and a pocket. A trigger is provided having a notch for engaging a segment of fishing line and having a kick-out post for deploying a signal. The kick-out post can be held with a pocket in the ready position. Rotation of the trigger caused by a strike forces the post from the pocket and causes the wire of the signal to clear a retainer on the side of the main body. A tension assembly is provided for adjusting the amount of force that is required to rotate the trigger. The post and a ledge holds the signal in place and the tensioner can be used to lock the signal in the storage position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Inventors: Lawrence William Carignan, Darin Allan Carignan
  • Patent number: 8291635
    Abstract: A strike-setting assembly for an unmanned fishing rod including a hook-setting device carried by a fishing pole holder is provided. The hook-setting device includes a tether and an efficient, reliable mechanical trigger assembly including multiple magnets that permit easy, sensitive, multiple adjustments in multiple increments. The fishing pole holder is suitable for retaining the hook-setting device and for holding the rod in a manner providing resistance to the upward tension on the back handle portion of the fishing rod applied by the hook-setting device engaged on the front of the fishing rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Inventor: Lynn G. Payne
  • Publication number: 20120246996
    Abstract: The invention relates to a line of floats which allow for greater visibility during both day and night fishing. The greater visibility is created by a combination of one of more marker devices, including light sticks, flags, viz sticks, reflective surface, and/or use of chemiluminescent and phosphorescent materials. These objects and materials are used on a variety of floats, especially large floats such as jug floats and a new type of float termed a noodle float. These large floats are especially useful for catching large catfish and can be used in any body of water where fish are found, such as lakes, rivers, ponds, and the sea.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2011
    Publication date: October 4, 2012
    Inventor: Gary Bennis
  • Patent number: 8276310
    Abstract: A fishing rod holder includes a central shaft with telescoping sections and a pair of support legs secured adjacent the first end thereof. A third support leg attached to the central shaft provides further supports. A rod support arm is pivotally secured within a vertical slot in the second end of the central shaft. A second end of the rod support arm includes a forked end with finger sections. A T-shaped hanger supported by the forked end has a central leg section pivotally secured to a strap that engages the handle of a fishing pole. The fishing pole is free to pivot up and down relative to the T-shaped hanger. Raising the fishing pole disengages the T-shaped hanger from the support arm, thereby pivoting the rod support arm to a vertical orientation. An anchor further secures the central shaft to a support surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Inventor: Michael W. Weber
  • Publication number: 20120222345
    Abstract: A new fish-on line indicator has a counterweight sufficiently heavy to hold a fishing line taut and sufficiently visible to alert the angler that the fishing has moved; a swivel to slip over the fishing line to position the counterweight for view of the action; and a connector for connecting the counterweight to the swivel, the connector comprising a sufficiently heavy and water resistant material. A screw eye can be substituted with a rod going through the counterweight and secured at one end with a plate and the other end connecting directly to the swivel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2012
    Publication date: September 6, 2012
    Inventor: LUIS G. SANCHEZ
  • Publication number: 20120131841
    Abstract: The fishing tip-up has an upright support and a swinging arm pivotally mounted to the top of the support. A forward segment of the arm pivots downward and toward the support when the rear segment pivots upward The swinging arm is adapted to support a fishing line which extends downward into a fishing hole from the forward segment and to which a bait is attached for attracting a fish. When a fish strikes, the forward segment pivots downward when a force greater than a predetermined value is applied to the fishing line. The predetermined value is adjustable. A magnet is provided in the rear segment of the swinging arm and keeps a reed switch in the support open until a fish strikes. At that time, the rear segment swings up and away from the support with resulting separation of the magnet from the reed switch and concurrent closing of the switch. When the reed switch is closed, a light illuminates.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2010
    Publication date: May 31, 2012
    Inventor: John GALBRAITH
  • Patent number: 8176672
    Abstract: A device for signaling to an ice fisherman that a fish has taken the bait and a method for utilizing the device are disclosed. The device comprises a trigger pivotally attached to a housing. The trigger is balanced horizontally by a fishing line containing a loop adapted for looping and draping over one end of the trigger and one or more balancing and counterbalancing weights. The tugging of a fish taking the bait on the fishing line pulls the line off the trigger which allows the trigger to tip vertically signaling to the fisherman to take action to raise the fishing line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Inventor: Donald Leonard Schmeisser
  • Patent number: 8161677
    Abstract: A bite-signaling device comprises a clamp member securing the device to the rod of the rod and reel combination. A linear support member is pivotally connected at a first end to the clamp member. The second end of the linear support member includes a perpendicular section with a linear signal member rotatably attached thereto. The linear signal member includes a weighted first end and a signaling second end. A line attachment member is secured to the signaling second end of the linear signal member and releasably secures a fishing line attached to a reel of the rod and reel combination. The fishing line secured to the line attachment member maintains the weighted first end of the signal member elevated relative to the signaling second end thereof. Releasing the fishing line from the line attachment member causes the weighted first end to rotatably descend and elevate the signaling second end of the signal member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Inventor: Michael W. Weber
  • Patent number: 8161678
    Abstract: A bait and hook arrangement is coupled with a mechanism that alerts a fisherman when his or her bait article is no longer attached to the hook. When the bait is off the hook, (empty hook), the mechanism is triggered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Inventor: Thaddeus Anthony DeLucca
  • Publication number: 20120060404
    Abstract: A fly fishing device for indicating a strike from a fish which suspends a fly or lure a fixed distance above the bottom of a lake or river is disclosed. The device may include a strike indicator made from foam or other buoyant materials that includes a threaded set screw and O-Ring to attach the line/leader to the indicator body. Most strike indicators are either difficult to attach, or difficult to adjust. This invention will allow easy attachment, and easy adjustment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2010
    Publication date: March 15, 2012
    Inventor: Michael J. Baron
  • Patent number: 8104219
    Abstract: The lighted tip fishing pole apparatus provides a lighted tip pole with intensity adjustment of the lighted tip as well as on/off control. The apparatus is electrically efficient in order to extend battery life, thereby enabling extended use. The apparatus ensures against electrical failure of the lighted tip and related electrical connections by virtue of rod insulation, coiled wiring, straight wiring where needed, and positive, sealed connections and circuitry. The pole offers the same flexibility, threaded reel attachments, cushioned handle, eyelets, and cushioned grip fishermen require. The apparatus enables a fisherman to notice rod dip when a bite occurs, and thereby react, as opposed to an inability to do so in no light and low light conditions. With only the tip lighted, visibility of rod tip action is magnified. The further advantage of tip light intensity adjustment allows a fisherman to adjust to various light conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Inventor: Gary C. Pace
  • Patent number: 8104220
    Abstract: A fishing pole has a hollow handle and a hollow rod with their interior chambers in communication with each other. The hollow handle can receive an independent light source and also houses a concave reflector. The hollow rod contains a plastic optical fiber which extends along the length of the hollow rod and extends into the hollow handle through the concave reflector. The hollow rod has at least some portions that are translucent. The plastic optical fiber is scuffed on its end where it protrudes through the concave reflector and also in sections within the hollow rod. An independent light source inserted into the hollow handle is directed toward the concave reflector and light is directed into the plastic optical fiber, transmitted to the hollow rod, and diffused out into the hollow rod and then outside. The plastic optical fiber also rattles when the rod is moved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Inventor: Kenny Cobb
  • Publication number: 20110302820
    Abstract: An apparatus including a stake device for driving into a ground surface, a first device having a cavity into which a fishing rod handle can be inserted, and an alarm device. The stake device may be attached to or detached from the first device. The alarm device is triggered when the fishing rod handle is within the cavity of the first device and is sufficiently jostled as a result of a fish tugging on a fishing line connected to the fishing rod handle The first device may include a first compartment and a second compartment, wherein the first compartment fits within the second compartment, and the cavity is within the first compartment. The alarm device may include a first metal conductor attached to a periphery of the first compartment, and a second metal conductor attached to an interior of the second compartment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2010
    Publication date: December 15, 2011
    Inventors: Bryan Gouthro, Richard Fuchs
  • Publication number: 20110271579
    Abstract: An ice fishing trap comprising in its operational state a crossbeam dimensioned for extending across a hole in ice covering a body of water, and a hingedly coupled vertical mast. The vertical mast has a rotatable reel dimensioned to carry a length of fishing line and a hook. A trigger mechanism is provided, wherein a rotation of the reel causes an arcuate movement of a trigger hook. One aspect of the invention provides at least two stabilizer limbs hingedly coupled to the crossbeam, so as to form a general Z shaped support base when operational. In another aspect the fishing trap provides a trigger bolt coupled to an indicator spring, wherein the trigger bolt is utilized to couple the indicator spring to the trigger hook. The trigger bolt is slidingly supported by bolt guide, thus providing improved resistance to false indications due wind vibration and the like. Preferably, the trigger bolt is coupled to the indicator spring by a ring shaped coupler.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2011
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Inventor: Ricky M. Rand
  • Patent number: 8033044
    Abstract: A fishing buoy for reducing injury or premature mortality in target fish species and endangered or protected bycatch includes: a multi-axis swivel having first and second attachment points arrayed along a central first axis and a third attachment point arrayed along a distinct second axis; an anchor or other underwater restraining device; a ballast, float and a transmitter having a transmission state; a leader and at least one baitable hook; a fish strike trigger connected to the transmitter and temporarily coupled to the leader, or connected to the leader and temporarily coupled to the transmitter. After a fish or bycatch strike the trigger changes the transmitter state to provide an indication that a strike has occurred, the leader and transmitter are decoupled, and the leader is free to rotate around the central axis without entangling the anchor or other underwater restraining device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: Mote Marine Laboratory, Inc.
    Inventors: Alan Robert Hails, Peter Thomas Hull, Dean Dougherty
  • Patent number: 8033045
    Abstract: An exemplary embodiment of Ihe invention is a fishing reel seat including a reel mounting mechanism having a longitudinal axis configured for firmly attaching a fishing reel, and a reel mount receiving portion, wherein the reel mounting mechanism is configured to move in a substantially longitudinal direction with respect to the reel mount receiving portion in response to an externally generated force. The force measurement device includes a sensor configured to produce a response, in operational mode, indicative of the externally generated force based in the movement of the reel mounting mechanism with respect to the reel mount receiving portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Inventor: David F. Pekin
  • Patent number: 8015745
    Abstract: A fishing device for indicating a lure strike from fishes is disclosed. The device may be a strike indicator that may include a hollow body filled with trapped air, where the strike indicator includes a tab having an opening formed therein and a grommet made from a hard, durable material seated in the opening. Alternatively, the device may be a fishing lure that may be attachable to a fishing hook and having a hollow body filled with trapped air and an attachment mechanism for attaching the lure to the fishing leader and/or fishing line. For example, the fishing lure may be a fishing fly having a hollow body filled with trapped air. In either embodiment, the device may be made from a lightweight, resilient material, for example ethylene vinyl acetate or other similar thermoplastic material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Inventor: Brian Spencer Westover
  • Publication number: 20110203156
    Abstract: One embodiment of a strike indicator may be constructed of a buoyant member having a curved outer surface, a central axis and a slot extending from the outer surface to the central axis. This slot is used to hold the fishing line. A securing member is removably coupled to the outer surface of the buoyant member. The securing member has a protrusion that can be positioned within the slot such that the line does not slide within the slot when casting the line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2010
    Publication date: August 25, 2011
    Inventor: Bart G. Christiansen
  • Publication number: 20110203155
    Abstract: The present invention solves several problems of the existing fishing rod holder systems by employing a fishing rod holder design which makes the rod holder structurally robust, fully and easily adjustable, and totally conducive to the setting of the hook right out of the rod holder. Furthermore, the present invention employs a t-bar design which makes the t-bar system strong, easy to transport and store, and more importantly, fully adaptable from a boat or pier fishing to bank fishing. In addition, the present invention, replaces the bobber with a more practical, more efficient and easier to use visual tool, the strike indicator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2010
    Publication date: August 25, 2011
    Inventor: Jessie Simmons
  • Patent number: 7992341
    Abstract: An ice fishing tip-up incorporates a visual marker rod which operates separately from the tip-up strike indicator. The visual marker rod is pivotal between a storage position parallel to and within the plane of the base and a position generally perpendicular thereto. To separately operate the tip-up strike indicator, a flag stay holds the strike indicator flag prior to a fish strike. The flag stay deviates from the longitudinal axis of a pivoting inner rod, in turn coupled to the spool, by more than ninety degrees, such that the inner rod and flag stay may be positioned to capture and hold a tip-up indicator flag in an orientation generally parallel to the tip-up base. The flag stay, in addition to angle, also incorporates an apparatus to hold the tip-up indicator flag at more than one position along the flag stay, thereby permitting reliable and repetitive setting of different activation forces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Inventor: Ryan Renstrom
  • Patent number: 7963065
    Abstract: A fishing strike indicator for providing a visual indication showing that a fish has taken a lure or bait includes an elongate body portion, a clamp for attachment to a fishing pole, a sliding connection joining the clamp to the elongate body portion, a line engaging feature formed as a portion of or attached to the elongate body portion, the line engaging feature engageable with a portion of a fishing line below the fishing pole, whereby tension in the portion of the fishing line below the pole causes the elongate body portion to move upwards thus providing the visual indication.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Inventor: James Alexander Copeland
  • Publication number: 20110138675
    Abstract: The fishing lure float has long been available as an indicating device to alert fishermen of the presence of nibbling or striking fish The claims presented herein, advance the original fishing lure float beyond its former, limited role as an indicator. The Radio Controlled Fish Finding Lure Float combines recasting, trolling, and fish finding capability into one unit, while keeping the water and the environment as undisturbed as possible, all at an affordable price. More advanced releases of this technology allows for the detection of a force hitting the end of the lead line. Similarly, means for indicating the submergence of the float can be added to even more advanced models. The addition of global positioning technology to the float allows for the recording of locations and monitoring of aquatic life in specific areas. The addition of the remotely controlled lead line spool winch aids in the control of depth of the lead line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2010
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Inventor: Justin Bredar Cutts
  • Publication number: 20110131865
    Abstract: A strike indicator has a hollow plastic spherical body with an opening through which water can flow into the body to weight the body for spin cast fishing and out of which water can be removed from the body for fly cast fishing. An easily manipulable thumbscrew can engage the opening to selectively block the opening while trapping a fishing line between a grommet on the thumbscrew and the spherical body to hold the strike indicator onto the fishing line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2009
    Publication date: June 9, 2011
    Inventor: THOMAS EDWARD LOE
  • Publication number: 20110126445
    Abstract: An adjustable bobber assembly is provided that includes a main body adapted to be secured to a fishing pole, a pivot arm pivotally secured to the main body, a locking clip secured to the main body to lock the pivot arm in place on the main body, and an indicator adjustably secured to the pivot arm and engageable with a fishing line on the fishing pole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 24, 2010
    Publication date: June 2, 2011
    Inventor: David G. Scholfield
  • Publication number: 20110107652
    Abstract: An ice fishing apparatus features a support stand engaging and projecting upward from a frozen surface of a body of water and projecting laterally outward at a distance above the frozen surface. A flexible strip has a fixed end coupled to the stand and extends past a distal end laterally outward from the upright portion of the stand engaged in the ice. A wind flap is coupled to the flexible strip at a position therealong between the distal end of the stand and a free end of the flexible strip. A reel support is provided on the support stand and a clip near the free end of the strip is used for gripping fishing line from the reel to move the hook end of the line with the strip under action of moving air on the wind flap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2010
    Publication date: May 12, 2011
    Inventor: Kenneth Lee Getzinger
  • Patent number: 7934338
    Abstract: A fish detection accessory to be installed on the end of a fishing pole or which alternately can be incorporated into a fishing pole during manufacture of the pole. The unit employs a miniature dual axis accelerometer integrated circuit that can detect angular rotation of the unit relative to the earth's surface, allowing the unit to detect a fish bite based on vibration method, i.e. rotation of the pole per unit time, or on a rotation method, i.e. rotation of the pole independent of time. Bite detection sensitivity levels and alarm methods can be selected by the user using the power switch and two setting switches. The unit can also be used as a mini flashlight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2011
    Assignee: Tackobox LLC
    Inventor: Edward Hope
  • Publication number: 20110094146
    Abstract: A fishing buoy for reducing injury or premature mortality in target fish species and endangered or protected bycatch includes: a multi-axis swivel having first and second attachment points arrayed along a central first axis and a third attachment point arrayed along a distinct second axis; an anchor or other underwater restraining device; a ballast, float and a transmitter having a transmission state; a leader and at least one baitable hook; a fish strike trigger connected to the transmitter and temporarily coupled to the leader, or connected to the leader and temporarily coupled to the transmitter. After a fish or bycatch strike the trigger changes the transmitter state to provide an indication that a strike has occurred, the leader and transmitter are decoupled, and the leader is free to rotate around the central axis without entangling the anchor or other underwater restraining device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2009
    Publication date: April 28, 2011
    Inventors: Alan Robert Hails, Peter Thomas Hull, Dean Dougherty
  • Patent number: 7921592
    Abstract: A strike indicator for a fishing device is provided. The signaling mechanism of the strike indicator is activated by a trigger. Either the trigger or the signaling mechanism is attached to a rotating component of the fishing device. An optional location beacon or fish attractor light may be incorporated into the signaling mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Inventor: Glenn Carelock
  • Publication number: 20110067290
    Abstract: The invention relates to an electronic bite display (5) for displaying that a fish (13) has bitten the bait that is attached to the fishing line of a fishing rod (2) that can be placed on a fishing rod holder (1), said fishing rod comprising a reel (3) for reeling in the fishing line. The sensor of the bite display is an electronic acceleration sensor (B) and said bite display (5) comprises a console (21) that is secured between the fishing rod holder and a fishing rod stand (8), that protrudes approximately horizontally in the position of use and extends approximately parallel to the fishing rod (2). A pivoting shaft (27) that can pivot about a pivoting axis and that extends horizontally in the position of use is provided on the console (21). One first end of a pivoting arm (31) is pivotably mounted on the pivoting shaft, the other end supports the housing of the bite display.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2009
    Publication date: March 24, 2011
    Inventor: Zeljko Miskatovic
  • Patent number: 7908786
    Abstract: A fishing rod holder that is mountable to a surface. The rod holder comprises an elongated sleeve defining a proximal end, a distal end and a body disposed between the proximal end and the distal end. The body delimits an internal channel that extends between the proximal end and the distal end and that opens out of the distal end. The distal end includes a first cut-out and a second cut-out which are in communication with the internal channel and in communication with each other. The second cut-out is positioned perpendicular with respect to the first cut-out and opening out of the distal end wherein the second cutout is sized and shaped to guide the handle of the fishing rod to the first cut-out as the fishing rod enters the distal end and into the internal channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2011
    Inventor: Steven Bailey
  • Publication number: 20110056112
    Abstract: A fishing device, for use with a reel and rod combination having fishing line with attached terminal tackle, includes a base, an indicator device, a trigger mechanism, and a line device. The base has a hole and slot configuration to allow a fishing line to feed through the base. The indicator device is coupled to the base and is configured to indicate the presence of a fish. The trigger mechanism is configured to cause the indicator device to pop up when the trigger device is activated. The line device attaches to the fishing line and is configured to activate the trigger mechanism. When a fish pulls on the terminal tackle, the line device activates the trigger mechanism that causes the indicator device to pop-up indicating to a user the presence of a fish.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2010
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Inventors: Levi John Christianson, Michael John Christianson
  • Publication number: 20110035985
    Abstract: One exemplary embodiment of the invention is a translation stage adapted for use with a fishing pole and reel, the translation stage including a receiving portion adapted to receive a fishing reel, a mounting portion adapted for mounting to a fishing pole, wherein the receiving portion is movably affixed to said mounting portion along a first direction; and a force measurement device configured to produce a response indicative of the force between the base portion and the mounting portion along the first direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2010
    Publication date: February 17, 2011
    Inventor: David F. Pekin
  • Patent number: 7883043
    Abstract: A fishing reel, such as a spincast reel or a spinning reel, has a clutch assembly mounted on a shaft adjacent to the rotating component, the clutch assembly for frictional engagement with a rotating component. The clutch assembly has a first and a second protuberance. A bite alert contact is located for engagement with the first protuberance. A calibration member is adjacent the clutch assembly for engagement with the second protuberance. The calibration member provides a selectable amount of resistance to rotation of the clutch assembly, thereby regulating an amount of rotational force required to activate the bite alert contact. The fishing reel may further include a sensitivity switch for adjusting the selectable amount of resistance provided by the calibration member, which may adjust the resistance in discrete amounts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2011
    Assignee: W.C. Bradley/Zebco Holdings, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert R. Wilson, M. Scott Smith, Robert Bagby, Chris Flory, Joshua Buck, Tony Wei