Abstract: A fishing casting device (10) for mounting onto a fishing rod (12), the casting device comprising a mount (20) and a catch (30) connected to the mount (20), wherein the fishing line (15) is releasably held by the catch (30). The device (10) also includes a release mechanism (40) adapted to release the fishing line (15) from the catch (30) during a casting action when a predetermined casting force is reached.

Abstract: The invention is a fishhook threading device mounted on the rod of a fishing pole and utilizing opposing diverging funnel-shaped passages in the main body of the device. One passage is for mounting the eyelet of a fishhook therein while a line is threaded through the opposing passage to be guided into the eyelet of the fishhook. After the fish line is threaded through the eyelet, the end thereof can be grasped by the fingers of the fisherman to remove the hook and line from the threading device and allow any desired knot to be tied to permanently attach the fishhook to the fish line.

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.

Abstract: An arm support for use with an elongated object such as a fishing rod is disclosed herein. The arm support device includes an arm cradle that mounts above the handle of the elongated object. The arm cradle can be pivoted relative to the handle about a pivot axis that is offset to either the left or right side of the handle.

Abstract: A fish length and weight measuring device includes a tape measure having graduated markings displayed on at least one side thereof and a weight measuring hook extending from the device opposite the tape measure. Loop fasteners are provided on a back side of the device for coupling it the butt end of a fishing rod. The measuring device may include a housing having a transparent face through which the weight of a measured fish is displayed on a digital display. A power supply is coupled to the display. A fish is easily measured by hooking the end of the tape measure into the mouth of the fish and extending it along the length of the fishing rod. The fish is easily measure by gripping the butt of the pole and hooking the fish onto the weight measuring hook. In this manner, a fisherman can easily determine whether the fish is a keeper or can accurately measure the size and weight of a caught fish.

Abstract: An ergonomic cushion is adapted to be releasably attached to a proximal end of a fishing rod. The cushion has a top and a bottom that are integrally formed with one another. The top is wider than the bottom so that the cushion fits under an arm without cutting off circulation. A bore formed in the bottom snugly receives the proximal end. In a second embodiment, the cushion is solid and an elastic band tightly ensleeves the cushion and the proximal end of the rod so that all of the cushion is between the proximal end and the under arm area of the user. The butt end of the rod may be placed into a rod holder without removal of the cushion.

Abstract: The present invention relates to tape measure apparatus including an adapter having a first portion, which is sized and shaped so as to be attached to a butt end of a fishing pole, and a second portion, which is attached to the first portion. The tape measure apparatus is provided with a tape measure device sized and shaped such that the tape measure device can be removably attached to the adapter. In this manner, conventional fishing poles can be retrofitted with the tape measure device.

Abstract: An electronic marker device affixes a fishing rod to a fishing reel. The device includes a marker housing having a base and a cover to wrap around an arm of a fishing reel and enclose a foot of the reel and a rod of a fishing rod thereby preventing removal of the fishing reel from the fishing rod. The marker housing also supports an electronic marker so as to deter unauthorized removal of the rod and reel combination. The marker may be preferably an electronic article surveillance (EAS) marker.

Abstract: The invention is a fishing pole with an integrated line tension measuring device Measured line tension is displayed in quantitative units, pounds or kilograms. A line tension warning system activates when the sensed line tension exceeds a threshold set by the fisherman. The line tension measuring device does not touch the fishing line so the fishing pole with integrated line tension measuring device fishes and operates like a normal fishing pole. The line tension measuring device may be integrated into the fishing reel seat which, in turn, is an integral part of the fishing pole.

Abstract: A video fishing rod with underwater observation gear as fishing equipment, allowing surveillance of the bait and fish around it, and includes a video monitor attachable to the fishing pole, miniature submersible video camera attached close to the end of the fishing line for transmitting video images up to the monitor via the same fishing line without the use of a video cable.

Abstract: The line cutter suitable for fitting to the body of a fishing rod is made as a single piece obtained by cutting out and stamping a metal plate. It comprises firstly a main body with a front portion, a rear portion, and two side portions, and secondly two longitudinal prongs extending the side portions of the main body rearwards. The plate is cut out and stamped in such a manner that, when the line cutter is mounted on the body of the fishing rod, the longitudinal prongs and at least the front portion of the main body are in contact with the body of the fishing rod, the rear portion of the main body being raised so as to allow the line to be pass thereunder, and in such a manner that between the rear portion of the main body and the longitudinal prongs, a cutout in the shape of an acute angle on one side defines a cutting zone, while on the other side there is provided a jamming zone for jamming the fishing line.

Abstract: An ergonomic cushion is adapted to be releasably attached to a proximal end of a fishing rod. The cushion has a top and a bottom that are integrally formed with one another. The top is wider than the bottom so that the cushion fits under an arm without cutting off circulation. A bore formed in the bottom snugly receives the proximal end. In a second embodiment, the cushion is solid and an elastic band tightly ensleeves the cushion and the proximal end of the rod so that all of the cushion is between the proximal end and the under arm area of the user. The butt end of the rod may be placed into a rod holder without removal of the cushion.

Abstract: An electronic marker device affixes a fishing rod to a fishing reel. The device includes a marker housing having a base and a cover to enclose the moveable socket of a fishing rod thereby preventing removal of the fishing reel from the fishing rod. The marker housing also supports an electronic marker so as to deter unauthorized removal of the rod and reel combination. The marker may be preferably an electronic article surveillance (EAS) marker.

Abstract: A fishing rod is electronically enhanced to improve sensitivity and transmit to the user information related to conditions below the water surface in at or near real time.

Abstract: A fishing line package and dispenser is disclosed. An illustrative embodiment of the fishing line package and dispenser includes a housing, a fishing line spool provided in the housing, a fishing line wound on the fishing line spool, a display tab extending from the housing and an attachment tab carried by the display tab and adapted to detachably engage the housing. A method of transferring fishing line to a reel of a fishing rod is also disclosed.

Abstract: Herein known as REELBACK this device has been designed to retrieve lost items such due to separation from user, vessel, pier or persons such as fishing gear or other non-aquatic device. This device is of suitable materials containing herein a preloaded retrieval device, housed with a deployable flotation device, allowing recovery of fishing gear or non aquatic items such as binoculars, keys, rods with reels, dip-nets, etc. items lost at sea, lakes, ponds and other bodies of water.

Abstract: A device for coupling to a fishing rod includes a handle which includes a member with an aperture for receiving a reel seat of a rod and an arm extending from the member comprising a grip for receiving one or more digits is provided. A device may also include a handle, which includes a cylindrical member for coupling onto a rod, an arm extending from the member and disposed at a selected angle thereto, where the arm includes a grip for receiving one or more digits. Methods for using the devices and coupling to a user to repetitively make desired casting movements are also provided.

Abstract: A combination fishing accessory device including a line clipper, flashlight, hook sharpener and tape measure for attachment to a fishing rod making it easier and faster for an angler to clip lines, change rigs, sharpen hooks, shine light and measure fish. The device has a body having an underside including a plurality of needle-like protrusions. The body includes two hook and loop fasteners and brackets for securing the body to the fishing rod.

Abstract: A combination telescopic wading staff and fishing pole device includes a pole with a hollow storage area and a staff that is retractable and extensible. The telescopic wading staff has a plurality of interconnected elongated segments that are slideably, telescopically moveable relative to one another with a first, fully compacted configuration (retracted), and a second, fully extended configuration. The staff includes a locking mechanism for at least locking the plurality of interconnected elongated segments when it is fully extended.

Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided relating to the use of fishing accessories attached to a fishing rod or reel. A fishing accessory, such as a fish hook retainer, can be attached to a fishing rod using a device with a shape suitable to be clamped between the mounting flange of a fishing reel and a fishing rod and/or reel clamp of the fishing rod. A fish hook retainer includes a pocket for retaining a fish hook, while protecting the point and barb of the hook from exposure.

Abstract: Disclosed is a system for regulating fishing line tension. The system comprises a plurality of line retainers. Each line retainer comprises a holder on which the line rests, an elongated portion, and a clip that is attached to the surface of a fishing rod proximate the handle. The line retainer may be fabricated as one seamless piece of resilient material or may comprise at least two pieces of different material. The method for regulating the free spooling of a fishing line enables a fishing enthusiast to regulate tension on the fishing line with an open bail or in the free spool position on the drag system.

Abstract: A fishing rod includes one or more signal devices in a portion thereof and a power system that is connected to and activates the one or more signal devices when the fishing rod is flexed by a fish. The connection between the one or more signal devices and a power source includes a control switch and an activation switch that includes an electrically conductive pin mounted on the fishing rod and an electrically conductive coil spring surrounding the electrically conductive pin. The circuit between the one or more signal devices and the power is completed when the control switch is in the “on” condition and the electrically conductive pin and the electrically conductive coil of the activation switch are in electrical contact with each other. A kit may be used to retrofit an existing fishing rod.

Abstract: A shock suppression system for a fishing rod is mounted to a fishing rod and connected to the secure end of the fishing line for dampening the movement of the secure end of the toward the tip of the rod when a force is applied to the free end of the line by a fish hooked on the line. The invention may include a piston attached to a cartridge that is mounted to the handle portion of the fishing rod. The piston is attached in sliding engagement to the cartridge, which has a mechanism for dampening the movement of the piston toward the rod tip. Such a mechanism may be found in pneumatic cylinders, hydraulic cylinders or compression spring systems as found on a screen door for a home.

Abstract: A fishing rod includes one or more signal devices in a portion thereof and a power system that is connected to and activates the one or more signal devices when the fishing rod is flexed by a fish. The connection between the one or more signal devices and a power source includes a control switch and an activation switch that includes an electrically conductive pin mounted on the fishing rod and an electrically conductive coil spring surrounding the electrically conductive pin. The circuit between the one or more signal devices and the power is completed when the control switch is in the “on” condition and the electrically conductive pin and the electrically conductive coil of the activation switch are in electrical contact with each other. A kit may be used to retrofit an existing fishing rod.

Abstract: An improved fish bite alarm and fishing line release device that provides immediate release of a fishing line and activation of a fish bite alarm due to the use of spring biasing. The line holding and release device preferably includes two fingers arranged for holding the fishing line, a spring bias means for triggering the release of the line, an alarm circuit, and a spring bias means for activating the alarm circuit.

Abstract: An apparatus and method are described for reducing or preventing tangling of a fishing line that passes through one or more guides on a fishing rod. The apparatus includes a housing and a clamp operative to secure the housing to the fishing rod. A bore extends through the housing, and a slot is provided which is in communication with the bore and which is sized to receive the fishing line. A gate rigidly disposed relative to the housing impedes free passage of the fishing line from the bore and into the slot. The method includes placing the fishing line under tension in a tensioner that is connected to a fishing rod at a point along the length of the fishing rod that is distal to, yet proximate to, a reel; and reeling in the fishing line onto the reel while maintaining tension to the reel.

Abstract: A device is provided for transmitting a sound signal to a fishing lure on a fishing line of a fishing rod. The device includes a vibrating element supported on the fishing rod to transmit vibrations to the fishing rod and means for coupling the vibrating element to a sound signal source to vibrate the vibrating element in response to the sound signal. The vibrating element is movable relative to the fishing rod at a frequency dependent upon a frequency of the sound signal and at an amplitude dependent upon an amplitude of the sound signal. The vibrating element allows sound to be transmitted to a fishing lure without the need of a complex and specially adapted lure. The sound can be transmitted to a conventional fishing lure through the fishing line in the form of vibrations within a range of frequencies audible to the fish. Furthermore, the vibrations can be completely random so as to simulate movements of live bait.

Abstract: A fly cast training device that allows an instructor to take the lead in controlling the casting while the trainee follows along, and to gradually relinquish control to the trainee to instill the proper muscle memory through repetition. The fly cast training device generally comprises a flexible shaft section, a butt section, a spool attached to said butt section, and a multiple-handle assembly attached between the flexible shaft section and the butt section. The handle assembly includes a plurality of handle sections secured together at both ends in a spaced relation by a pair of brackets. The handle assembly may include two or three handles. The flexible shaft section and butt section may be attached centrally of the handles, or a second handle can be attached to in the existing handle of a conventional fly rod and offset there from by brackets.

Abstract: An electronic fishing information recording and storage device is disclosed. The device attaches to a traditional fishing rod and reel assembly and automatically records the number of casts executed with the subject rod and reel. For each fish caught, the device is capable of recording relevant information about the type of fish and weather conditions at the time of catch. Means are provided for transfer of fishing information to a traditional personal computer. The device provides a method for tournament fishing wherein the allotted time for each contestant to fish can be replaced by the number of casts allotted.

Abstract: A light weight wrist brace for anglers of all ages that is inherently self-adjusting and shock absorbing by virtue of its use of a flexure formed as an arcuate resilient connecting member. The connecting member is intermediate a forearm rest or cradle and a fastener adapted for connection to the handle of a fishing rod. The invention can be simply and easily molded as a single part from well-known thermoplastic materials using skills and techniques well known in the arts of plastic forming.

Abstract: A fishing line feeder spool support comprises a pair of flexible arms which are adapted to grip a fishing rod ahead of a fishing reel mounted thereon. The feeder spool support comprises a threaded shaft which rotatably supports a spool of fishing line while the fishing line is installed onto the fishing reel through the operation of the reel crank. A flanged nut is threaded onto the shaft to hold the spool. The line tension can be adjusted by tightening the flanged nut against the spool, thereby adjusting the pulling force needed to remove line from the supply spool. A crankable supply spool can also be installed on the shaft to remove and store fishing line from the fishing reel for later replacement on the reel.

Abstract: The present invention is a device for detecting the presence of a fish on a fishing line, comprising a sensor for measuring tension on the fishing line and generating an electronic signal related thereto. The signal is processed by a filter circuit which removes signal components caused by environmental conditions such as winds, wave and current action, boat drift or snags. The filter circuit produces a signal output only if the tension reading is characteristic of a fish bite on the line. The preferred form of the invention includes two parts: a detecting and transmitting device for attachment to a fishing rod, and a receiving device which also functions as a storage box. A rotatable control is provided for adjusting the sensitivity of the device. The filter output is encoded by the transmitting device, and transmitted as radio waves. The radio waves are received by the receiving device, converted back into an electric signal and decoded.

Abstract: A boot for covering a gimbaled butt end of a fishing rod includes a neck portion and an enlarged base with a body engaging surface structured and disposed for comfortable engagement against the body of a fisherman to thereby protect the body from pain and injury caused by the gimbaled butt end. An open end of the neck portion communicates with a hollow receptacle extending axially through the neck portion for receipt of the butt end therein. An inner wall surface surrounding the receptacle is tapered from the open end to a bottom of the receptacle and frictionally engages the butt end to hold the boot on the fishing rod. The body engaging surface is softer, smoother and larger than the butt end of the rod to thereby increase the force displacement area against the fisherman's body when fighting a fish.

Abstract: A carrying handle fastened to a fishing rod to facilitate lifting and handling of the fishing rod comprises a hand grip (11; 21) shaped and dimensioned for comfortable gripping in the hand, a clamp (12; 22) e.g. in the form of a diametrically split ring or split collar, which can be clamped securely to the fishing rod by tightening screw fasteners (20), and an arm (13; 14; 24) which connects the clamp (12; 22) to the hand grip (11; 21). The handle is secured to the fishing rod so that the hand grip (11; 21) extends alongside the rod below the fishing reel seat.

Abstract: A removable grip for a fishing rod may be attached and removed from the fishing rod. The removable grip includes a cylindrical main body that is formed by a pair of semi-cylindrical half shells that when joined together define the cylindrical main body of the grip. The two half shells are each formed with an elongated recess that together define a central bore of the main body for receiving a portion of the fishing rod. The central bore is lined with an anti-skid material that engages the fishing rod such that the grip and the rod are not likely to move with respect to one another. The half shells are secured to one another by any of a variety of securing means, such as Velcrol™ strap members, elastic cap members that are fixed to opposite ends of the main body, wedge members that fit into recesses formed in each half shell, or a strap that wraps around the outer circumference of the main body.

Abstract: A fly line exchange apparatus and method including a temporary reel that houses a relatively short pull line that temporarily attaches to the end of the existing fly line. During use, the end of the pull line is connected via a quick connector to the end of the fly line. When the main fishing reel on the fishing pole is rotated, the fly line and pull line are pulled together through the eyelets on the fishing rod. When the end of the pull line is pulled through the eyelet closest to the reel, the old fly line is detached from the quick connector. The old spool in the reel is then replaced with a new spool having the desired fly line. The end of the new fly line is attached to the quick connector on the end of the pull line and the temporary reel is rotated to pull the pull line and new fishing line through the last eyelet on the fishing rod. The pull line is then detached from the new fishing line so that the new fishing line may be used.

Abstract: A preset fishing line tension measuring device for permitting accurate fishing line tension adjustment with a drag mechanism is provided. A pair of fishing line guides are disposed in a spaced-apart relation to each other, and a tension sensor is disposed such as to provide an increased length of path of the fishing line between the two fishing line guided. Fishing line tension sensed by the tension sensor is displayed on a display part.

Abstract: A fishing line loading device for loading new fishing line onto a fishing reel, such as casting and spinning reels. The loading device can be demountably coupled to fishing rods of different thicknesses and can be used to load new fishing line from supply spools of various circumferences onto a fishing reel. The loading device includes a frame and securing structure, either or both of which can employ a structural rib pattern. The securing structure secures a supply spool to the frame and applies functional drag resistance to the supply spool. The device also includes coupling structure which couples the frame to a fishing rod.

Abstract: A light weight wrist brace for anglers of all ages that is inherently self-adjusting and shock absorbing by virtue of its use of a flexure formed as an arcuate resilient connecting member. The connecting member is intermediate a forearm rest or cradle and a fastener adapted for connection to the handle of a fishing rod. The invention can be simply and easily molded as a single part from well-known thermoplastic materials using skills and techniques well known in the arts of plastic forming.

Abstract: A fishing line feeding device for a fishing pole for easily transferring fishing line from a spool to a reel. The fishing line feeding device for a fishing pole includes a support member having a tongue portion and an elongate cross portion being attached to a top end of the tongue portion with the support member being removably supported upon a portion of the fishing pole and; and also includes lug members being spaced apart and being securely attached to the elongate cross portion for facilitating mounting of the fishing line feeding device upon the fishing pole; and further includes a spool support assembly including a shaft being securely attached to the tongue portion for supporting a spool; and also includes a fishing line handling assembly being securely attached to the lug members.

Abstract: More than one clips are attached to the handle section of a divided fishing rod. The clips can be permanently attached to the fishing rod or can be snapped onto the rod. The upper part of the clip is horseshoe-shaped and spring loaded inwardly such that the free end section of the fishing rod can be inserted into the upper part of the clip and held in parallel orientation to the lower, handle section of the fishing rod. The lower part of the clip can either be a base which is glued or molded to the fishing rod or can be another inwardly biased horseshoe-shaped clip. The lower part of the detachable embodiment can be snapped onto the handle section of the rod at at least two locations. When the free end section of the rod is attached to the upper part of the clip, the two halves of the rod are held in parallel orientation to each other. The upper part of the clip also has outwardly turned ears to enable easier insertion of the rod into the clip.

Abstract: An electronic fishing information recording and storage device is disclosed. The device attaches to a traditional fishing rod and reel assembly and automatically records the number of casts executed with the subject rod and reel. For each fish caught, the device is capable of recording relevant information about the type of fish and weather conditions at the time of catch. Means are provided for transfer of fishing information to a traditional personal computer. The device provides a method for tournament fishing wherein the allotted time for each contestant to fish can be replaced by the number of casts allotted.

Abstract: The sleeve is made from a 3 inch round piece of Styrofoam, the Styrofoam is 8 inches long, with a 2 inch hole cut down through the middle of the Styrofoam.

Abstract: A fly rod reel seat butt protection device is comprised of a rubber body resiliently expandable for covering and conforming to shafts and rimmed butts of fly rod reel seats. The body has an axial bore at its front end and a conical exterior surface convergently tapering from the front end to a domed-shaped rear. An annular ridge and an inwardly projecting annular recess are formed about the conical interior surface of the body for receiving and attaching to an annular rim of the fly rod reel seat butt.

Abstract: An assembly including a power source, a device for attaching the power source to a lower portion of a fishing rod, a length of fiber optic cable with a plurality of clips for securing the cable to the rod, and a light bulb. The light bulb which may have utility in other applications, includes a configured mass of plastic which encloses a region of reduced density which defines a first reflective region while the exterior of the bulb defines a second reflective region. The light bulb has a recess which receives a second end of the fiber optic cable so that the cable conducts a light beam to the bulb where it engages the first reflective surface and is bounced between the first reflective surface and the second reflective surface. Preferably, an electrical shrink tubing forms a sleeve over the first few inches adjacent the power source to focus the light beam along the cable. Color may be added to the bulb for alternate decorative uses.

Abstract: An off-axis adapter for an offset fishing rod coupling formed from a single piece of sheet material. The adapter includes a sleeve having two ends. The two ends of the sleeve are each attached to a support and each support has a rod mount and a sleeve connection. The rod mounts each attach to a primary rod at mounting points, and the sleeve connections attach to the sleeve proximate to each respective end of the sleeve. The sleeve receives and maintains a secondary rod in a predetermined off-axis position and angle in relation to the primary rod. Because the adapter is attached from the length or side of the host or primary rod, the installation of the adapter does not require matching dimensions of a host rod and a bushing. The adapter can be installed onto a side portion of a fishing rod that has already been built and does not require removal of fishing rod components.

Abstract: A device supporting the arm of a fisherman using a spinning-type fishing rod having a cylindrical rod handle providing a gripping area for the hand of the fisherman, comprising a cradle member supporting the upper forearm of the fisherman and a rod handle support member holding the fishing rod handle in alignment with the cradle member. The rod handle support member is positioned below and rotatably connected with the cradle member about a horizontal axis of rotation. The handle support member and the cradle member are each rotable about the horizontal axis to a plurality of positions in response to pressure applied to said cradle member and the rod handle support member. A clamp attached to the rod handle support member removably grips the rod handle to the handle support member.

Abstract: A signaling device for alerting fishermen to the presence of fish at the fish hook and includes a signal light and sound switching system fitted to a fishing rod so that a fish pulling on the hook and line activates the light and or the sound. A compact system which can be installed within the body of the fishing rod without cumbersome attachments.

Abstract: A warming apparatus for a fishing rod handle including a retaining mechanism having a first edge opposed to a second edge, the retaining mechanism adapted to receive at least one heat pack, and attachment means for connecting the first edge with the second edge of the retaining mechanism, wherein the warming apparatus is adapted to fold substantially around the fishing rod handle. By warming the fishing rod handle, the fisherman's hands can be kept warm while the fisherman is fishing without the need for bulky gloves or mittens that can increase the time it takes for one to catch fish and decrease the ease and efficiency of fishing. According to another aspect of the present invention, the retaining mechanism includes a heat pack that generates heat either through a chemical reaction or by using electricity.

Abstract: The present invention is a pole-attached fishing line cleaning and/or conditioning tool. Preferably, the tool is removably attached to a fishing pole with a convenient clamp or friction fit. The tool has a housing for receiving an absorbent and abrasive pad. Preferably, the housing opens like a book, and the pad is removable. Also, the housing has an aperture for receiving the fishing line. When the fishing line passes through the tool housing in its closed position, the line comes in firm contact with the pad, and with any cleaning and/or conditioning material absorbed in the pad.