Abstract: A plant stem separating apparatus for separating a stem from plant portions extending from the stem is provided. The plant stem separating apparatus includes a cutter, and first and second rollers. The cutter includes a blocking member and apertures defined therein. The apertures are sized for receiving the stem therethrough and the blocking member is positioned and configured for blocking a passage of the plant portions through one of the apertures. The first and second rollers define an engagement region therebetween downstream of the aperture for receiving the stem, and are drivable to rotate in opposite directions in a forward feeding mode to grab the stem at the engagement region and pull the stem through the aperture, such that the plant portions are retained upstream of the blocking member while the stem is pulled through the aperture, thereby causing disengagement of the plant portions from the stem.

Abstract: The present invention provides an ice fishing rig comprising a rotatable reel, an electrical alarm device, a battery for operating the alarm device and a support stand for the reel, alarm device and battery. An electrical circuit is formed from the battery through the support stand and reel to the alarm device, and includes a circuit breaker located in a reel set-up position away from which the reel rotates for closing the circuit and activating the alarm to indicate the presence of a fish.

Abstract: The present invention provides a container assembly for receiving fishing minnows and the like. The assembly comprises an outer bucket, a removeable lid for sealing the bucket, a handle for carrying the bucket and a strainer basket for fitting inside the bucket. The strainer basket has a pair of handle portions which are detachable from one another and which can be moved to an out of the way position for gaining access into the basket.