Abstract: Fishing lures include a paddle-shaped plane member affixed to, or formed or carved on, a top or body surface thereof. The plane member permits the fishing lure to mimic the natural swimming patterns of vertically fleeing/escaping prey fish targeted by predatory fishes. The plane member includes first and second side surfaces, and top and bottom surfaces. An end portion may include a rounded profile. The fishing lure is operable to perform a cast into a body of water where it is allowed to sink to a desired depth. Then, upon retrieval or rod sweep, swim upwardly and then allowed to sink again. This process may be repeated until a predator fish strikes at the lure. An angle between the lure body and a bottom surface of the plane member may be in the range of 10-90 degrees relative to a horizontal plane extending lengthwise through the lure body.

Abstract: A tension sleeve system that is selectively operable to engage a trolling motor system of a watercraft. The tension sleeve system is configured to fit over the area containing the lower portion of the trolling motor's stationary shaft and the middle portion (i.e., the exposed portion) of the swivel shaft, especially in proximity to the middle bearing area between the two shafts. The tension sleeve system is selectively operable to adjust feedback on any cable operated rotational steering system by applying an appropriate amount of tension between the trolling motor's stationary shaft and the swivel shaft, thus controlling the torque and/or energy generated by the propulsion motor and propeller. Clamps or other suitable devices can be used to apply the appropriate amount of tension between the trolling motor's stationary shaft and the swivel shaft by appropriately tightening the tension sleeve members against the external surfaces of the two shafts.