Abstract: Insect storage and dispensing system are described. An example system may include a dispensing container including at least one wall defining an interior volume for retaining a plurality of adult insects. The system may also include a piston that extends through a first opening of the dispensing container so as to expose a top face of the piston to the interior volume. Longitudinal movement of the piston toward a second opening of the dispensing container may dispense a portion of the plurality of insects from the dispensing container when the plurality of insects is retained in the dispensing container.

Abstract: This present invention relates to an ice fishing hole cover. The cover features a hinged door attached to the cover through mechanical attachments. The ice fishing hole cover includes a fishing line hole to allow a user to setup a fishing bait line through the cover. The hinged door enables the user to open a portion of the cover, and not the entire cover, to set up the fishing bait line or to access and land a fish caught while ice fishing. The ice fishing hole cover enhances the overall ice fishing experience of the users and eliminates the inconvenience of maintaining an open ice hole while fishing.

Abstract: Provided herein is a system to sense angling events and make angling recommendations associated with a user's use of a fishing rod, reel and line. The system includes an angling event sensing device, a processor, a mobile device in communication with the processor or the angling event sensing device, and a recreation monitoring platform to receive the angling event and data and make a recommendation based on an angling event of input from the user.

Abstract: A marine specimen capture system for use in capturing a marine specimen alive and intact from an underwater environment includes a specimen capture assembly comprising at least one specimen capture member. The at least one specimen capture member having a capture member inlet and a capture member outlet. A thruster assembly comprising at least one thruster unit is interconnected to the specimen capture assembly. More in particular, the thruster assembly is operative to generate an induced flow along an induced flow path into at least a portion of the at least one specimen capture member through the capture member inlet, wherein the induced flow is sufficient to pull a marine specimen into and through at least the capture member inlet of the at least one specimen capture member.

Abstract: A landing net that has an integral bonker installed in its handle. The bonker can be removed as needed to stun a fish. When done, the bonker can be reinstalled in the net's handle for later use. The bonker is designed to fit inside the handle of the net. The bonker has a weighted head, a shaft, a spring-loaded locking button in the shaft, a handle, and an optional lanyard. In use, the user presses the spring-loaded locking button until it is below the height of the handle. The user then can withdraw the bonker and use it to stun a fish. When done, the bonker can be reinserted into the handle of the net, the button can be depressed and the bonker can then be pushed up into place until the spring-loaded locking button pops up to secure the bonker in the handle.

Abstract: An ice fishing trap (10) includes an arm (16), leg (28) and pivotal plate (30) actuated by a pedal (34) in order to trap a caught fish within an ice hole so that it cannot escape if it gets off the hook.

Abstract: A minnow capturing system includes a tubular member that has an open first end, an open second end and a perimeter wall having a plurality of elongated slits. The slits expose portions of a minnow held within the tubular member such that a hook can extend through the slits and through the minnow. A housing for holding minnows and water has a bottom wall and a peripheral wall. The peripheral wall includes a front wall, a rear wall, a first side wall and a second side wall. A juncture is defined where the bottom wall meets the first side wall. The interior surface of the first side wall is concavel arcuate from the front wall to the rear wall. The tubular member is positionable against the juncture such that a minnow in the housing swims into the second end.

Abstract: A trolling assembly with breakaway system, that has a movable arm assembly, an adjustable assembly, a mounting assembly, which has an extension arm having a first angle, an arm connector assembly, an actuator assembly, and a shield arm assembly that defines an acute angle, while in a deployed configuration, with a water line that a sea vessel is in while in a path of travel to shield a fishing line and baits and/or lures from seaweed and debris by pushing the seaweed and debris upwardly towards the water line along a tapered end of the shield arm assembly to then be released. The shield arm assembly, in the deployed configuration, extends outwardly from the sea vessel to define a second angle, and is fixedly connected to the arm connector assembly providing the shield arm assembly a predetermined resistance to maintain the acute angle while in the deployed configuration.

Abstract: A method of harvesting crustaceans that utilizes a trap and buoy system, each trap being equipped with a digital camera and a light flash mechanism and being electrically connected to a buoy which has a wireless broadcast system to forward images received from the camera wirelessly to a further location that is equipped to receive the wirelessly transmitted image and to display the image to a human user. The method begins with laying out traps in the ocean, in a grid having a first grid spacing. Then for each trap, repeatedly lighting the trap with the flash mechanism and forming an image with the digital camera and sending the image to the further location. Then monitoring the images. Finally, in reliance on the images deciding to begin laying out traps in a grid, having a second grid spacing that is tighter than the first grid spacing, around a particular trap.

Abstract: A decorative free-standing illumination tower for outdoor and aquatic environments is capable of being deployed in outdoors and aquatic environments without the need of an external support. The tower includes an elongated tube, a plurality of lighting fixtures, a light controller, a power source, a first endcap, and a second endcap. The plurality of lighting fixtures is mounted in a helical fashion around the elongated tube. Consequently, the plurality of lighting fixtures is positioned along a longitudinal axis and radially mounted around the elongated tube. The first endcap and the second endcap connect at opposite ends of the elongated tube. The light controller is an electronic device that controls the actuation of the plurality of lighting fixtures. Accordingly, the plurality of lighting fixtures can be made to display various patterns, images, and colors. Finally, the power source provides electrical power to the plurality of lighting fixtures and the light controller.

Abstract: A multi-function tool includes a body, a clearing pin fastener, and a line holder assembly. The body includes a through-hole extending from a first surface to a second surface and defined by a threaded sidewall. The clearing pin fastener includes a head, a pointed end portion, and a threaded shank that is located between the head and the pointed end portion. The line holder assembly includes a line holder including a slit formed between a top portion and a bottom portion and configured to receive a line and a frame including a pair of opposing surfaces configured to hold the line holder in compression. The threaded shank is removably attached to the threaded sidewall so that the head is adjacent the first surface and the pointed end portion extends outward from the second surface. The line holder assembly is configured to rotate relative to the body about a pivoting axis.

Abstract: An automated fish culling system which includes a base station which includes a processor and base station display for displaying information corresponding to a plurality of cull tags, the base station display being communicably coupled to the processor. Each of the plurality of cull tags are configured to be associated with a fish and includes cull tag display for identifying the cull tag. The system further includes a memory for storing data that includes information associated with the fish, the information comprising a fish weight, wherein the processor determines which fish to cull based on at least the fish weight associated with each fish, and indicates which fish to cull via at least the base station display.

Abstract: A variable-nozzle turbocharger includes a variable vane mechanism that has an annular nozzle ring supporting an array of rotatable vanes, an insert having a tubular portion sealingly received into a bore of the turbine housing and having a nozzle portion extending radially out from one end of the tubular portion and being axially spaced from the nozzle ring with the vanes therebetween, and a plurality of two-piece self-centering spacer assemblies connected between the nozzle portion of the insert and the nozzle ring. Each spacer assembly comprises a tubular sleeve and a separate pin that passes through the through-passage of the sleeve, end portions of the pin being secured respectively to the nozzle ring and the nozzle portion. One end of each sleeve has a conical surface and engages in a corresponding conical countersink in the adjacent face of the nozzle ring or nozzle portion.

Abstract: A knife includes a knife body having two liners and a blade positioned between the two liners. The knife further includes two scales, each scale being removably coupled to one of the two liners. Each scale is configured for use as a tool separate from the knife body when removed from the knife body. A bottle opener may be formed in the knife body.

Abstract: The automatic fish hook tying device includes a hollow housing with an elongate slot formed therein. A fish hook holding assembly near one end of the slot adjustably holds a fish hook thereon, with an eye of the fish hook extending into the housing. A fishing line feeding assembly near the opposite end of the slot positively feeds a fishing line through a fishing line guide assembly, threading the line through the eye. A winding and spooling assembly winds the line around a detachable spool and forms coils around a standing line to initiate formation of a knot. A manipulator assembly carries the spool to form loops and thread the line through the loops during the knot tying process. Upon completion of the knot, the tied fishing hook can be removed from the housing through the slot. A cutter assembly is provided to cut off excess length of line.

Abstract: An expandable baton assembly has an outer baton section which received an intermediate baton section and an inner baton section telescopically received therein such that an overall length between two opposing working ends of the assembly can be extended for use and retracted for storage. Each of the two opposing ends is suitably arranged as both a hand grip and a striking portion such that the assembly is reversible between two different working orientations having different characteristics. The assembly can be retained in the retracted position by frictional engagement of the grip at the working end of the inner baton section within the open inner end of the outer baton section.

Abstract: A device for handling fish eggs and other benthic macro invertebrates is provided for removal from a surface of a waterway. An enlarged, generally planar housing has a lower surface formed of a material having sufficient flexibility so that a vacuum that communicates through a collector cavity can remove fish eggs, for example, from a waterway. Fish eggs can be destroyed, either with high pressure fluid that may be a part of the vacuum assembly, or mechanically destroyed, or alternatively the fish eggs may be filtered or separated from the remainder of the collected material. Fluid such as water, saline, chemical or toxins, warm water, etc., are preferably introduced into the waterway surface about the periphery of the housing to treat and/or dislodge the fish eggs.

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.

Abstract: The instant invention is a ribbon for use with sport fishing in conjunction with a GPS-enabled smart-phone. The ribbon tape is calculated in terms of estimated weight allowing an ocean weigh-in, versus a dock located weigh-in, to meet the fishing tournament requirements and/or a recreational angler's requirements, and the GPS-enabled smart-phone allows accurate documentation of the catch for competition or recreational purposes. The ribbon tape of the instant invention provides an estimate of fish weights based upon fish length, the fish weights based upon a statistical averaging of a particular fish species. The objective of the invention is to eliminate the destruction of fish caught only for the purpose of determining fish size and weight, and to eliminate the risk caused by tournament fishing boats racing back to weigh-in stations.

Abstract: A hole retaining device to preserve an ice fishing hole comprising a cylinder, where the cylinder extends between an open rim and a closed bottom, and where the cylinder houses a fire ignited to melt ice surround the hole retaining device; a handle attached to the rim, where the handle serves to lift the cylinder; and a bait container attached to the bottom of the cylinder, where the bait container houses bait for ice fishing. The hole retaining device features a tapered cylinder to easily remove the device from the fishing hole.

Abstract: An ice fishing hole cover comprising a cover body having a top surface, a bottom surface, and an edge surface surround the cover body, a fishing line access extending through the cover body from the top surface to the bottom surface, a fishing line removal guide extending from the fishing line access to the edge surface of the cover body, and a set of vent holes preventing the ice hole from freezing or closing up.

Abstract: A release weight includes a weighted element having a flat bottom portion and a top portion having a connection element; an attachment hook having a first portion connected to the weighted element and a second portion connected to the first portion; and an extension element connected to the connection element. The attachment hook is passed through the jaw of the fish and the fish is placed in the body of water. The weighted element and the fish sink to the floor of a body of water, the flat bottom portion is flatly positioned on the floor, and the attachment hook is disengaged from the fish.

Abstract: A fishing gear holding assembly is provided for floating on a water surface to facilitate fishing without having to leave the water. The assembly includes a buoyant support having an outer perimeter wall, a bottom wall, an upper wall, and an inner perimeter wall. The inner perimeter wall defines a well in the support. A box has a base wall and a peripheral wall coupled to and extending upwardly from the base wall. The box is positioned in the well. At least one upright tube is coupled to and positioned in the box. The upright tube is configured for receiving and supporting a fishing rod in an upright position. A plurality of floats is positioned in the well around the box.

Abstract: The invention relates to a gel-spun fiber comprising a polyolefin polymer forming a fiber body, wherein a stabilizer is present inside the fiber body, characterized in that the amount of said stabilizer is between 0.05 and 10 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the amount of the polyolefin polymer forming said fiber body.

Abstract: A fish release device is claimed, comprising a spring-loaded set of opposing members with tip portions capable of retaining the lip of a fish suffering from barotrauma to a depth sufficient to reverse the effects of barotrauma prior to releasing the fish. The opposing members cross over each other such that the jaws can be temporarily opened merely by tugging upward on the line attached to the device. Once the jaws are opened, the fish normally swims away rapidly, before the jaws close again. The device is small, compact, and can be used with a variety of fish species and sizes.

Abstract: A device for identifying marine species. The device allows the fisherman to quickly identify what specie has been caught, its legal size and the amount of that specific specie that can be collected for recreational or commercial purposes, all this while the specie is still alive, allowing enough time to the fisherman to keep or return to the water the specie that has just been caught.

Abstract: An apparatus for attracting fish is disclosed. The apparatus has a motor with rotating driveshaft that defines a rotational axis substantially parallel to a surface of a body of water. A housing encloses the motor, and the driveshaft extends therefrom. There is an impeller with a hub axially aligned with and coupled to the driveshaft. The impeller has one or more flat planar blades, each defined by a trailing edge and a leading edge and extending radially from the hub in an orthogonal relationship to the rotational axis of the driveshaft without pitch. A proximate end of the blades is fixed to the hub an opposed distal end includes a cupped paddle projecting therefrom with a paddle leading surface and a paddle trailing surface. Turbulence and cavitation is generated by the impeller, and the visual and audible side effects thereof are simulative of fish feeding activity.

Abstract: A fishing contest is implemented by entering a plurality of lures in the fishing contest, receiving fishing data used to judge the fishing contest from the plurality of lures, and determining a winner of the fishing contest in response to the received fishing data. Each lure includes a memory that stores a unique identifier value. This unique identifier value is stored in a database when the lure is entered in the contest. The fishing data that later becomes associated with the lure during the course of fishing (e.g., fish size, time the fish was caught, ambient conditions) is subsequently downloaded along with the unique identifier. The unique identifier stored in the data base is compared with the unique identifier downloaded with the fishing data to verify the fishing data. The verified fishing data is analyzed at the end of the contest to determine a winner.

Abstract: A fishing rod handle with line type and strength indicator.

Abstract: A single small elastic disk, which may or may not include a central perforation, is dispensed from the storage cavity of the device into a holding channel at the edge thereof so that it can be threaded onto a fishhook to serve as a bait retainer. The lateral movement of the hook from the edge of the dispenser removes the retainer from the channel, so that is placing firmly on the shaft of the fishhook. The central portion, being opened by the fishhook tip before removal from the dispenser, will exert a gripping force when disposed on the shaft or shank portion of a fish hook. Preferably, the disk portion of one such retainer when placed against adjacently threaded bait or lures will retain them on the hook during use until the bait or lure is intentionally removed.

Abstract: A fishing light stringer system having: a multiplicity of lights, each light configurable to attach to a fishing rod eyelet, an electrical distribution system connected to the multiplicity of lights, wherein the electrical distribution system has a battery pack and wires, such that the electrical distribution system forms a complete circuit with the lights, so that when the electrical distribution system is connected to the multiplicity of lights and the multiplicity of lights are attached to the fishing rod eyelets, each eyelet is illuminated.

Abstract: Integrated float line assemblies having braking capability and methods for forming same are disclosed. The integrated float line assembly includes a braided portion slidably captured between the two ends of a float line, wherein the float line can slide along an interior hollow of the braided portion and be selectively braked by engaging the braided portion. The braided portion is provided with substantially rigid end ferrules. Obstruction having a transverse dimension larger than an inner diameter of the ferrule is provided with at least one end of the float line to prevent the braided portion from being separated from the float line.

Abstract: A restraining device for use in a water environment includes a plurality of tendrils that can be launched from a submerged device when an unauthorized swimmer is proximate the restraining device. Data communication in a neural-network of restraining devices is facilitated by a central command that has the capability of directing restraining devices, normally, aquatic mines, to a target.

Abstract: A device which holds a rigged fly stationary when initiating a cast with connected fly rod, line and leader but that then releases the rigged fly once acted upon by the action of the fly line and leader movement. This simulates the result of water tension to a degree sufficient to allow for both fly rod loading and complete leader turn-over. Thus, realistic roll casting practice in the absence of a body of water (on dry land) is made possible.

Abstract: A removable bait cooling having an outer container defining an first upper opening and an inner cooler zone and a plurality elongated of inner cooler members, each of the elongated inner cooler members with a first end, a second end opposite to the first end, and a substantially watertight sidewall separating the first and second ends with the sidewall at least partially defining a bait placement zone. The elongated inner cooler members also having a substantially watertight bottom surface at least partially defining the bait placement zone and a second upper opening defined by the second end of the inner cooler member, being coupled to at least one other inner cooler member, and being removable from, and insertable within, the first upper opening as a unit.

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.

Abstract: A fishing lure retrieving device is disclosed. Versions of the invention utilize a body with a cavity and handle, a sleeve movably connected to the body, a cutter and closing line. Optional telescoping handle(s), magnet(s), closing fastener(s), sleeve end cap(s) and/or body end cap(s) may also be used with versions of the invention.

Abstract: The present invention is a swivel snap device to hold and assist in removing one or more fishing swivel snaps and lures that includes a plastic base with a planar surface, a pair of arms that includes a top arm and a bottom arm with an aperture disposed at each arm's proximal end and a wire spring connector with a pair of extensions and a wire spring that provide a spring-loaded torque force to the extensions. The invention includes a pair of strong metal alloy v-groove ends that includes a v-shaped groove disposed on the v-groove end that are disposed on the distal end of each arm and a top surface that is disposed on the top of the top arm.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure generally pertain to bait-hooking apparatus and methods. A bait-hooking apparatus in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure comprises a handle, a stationary portion, and a pivoting portion. The stationary portion is rigidly secured to the handle and the pivoting portion is pivotally secured to the stationary portion. The stationary portion and the pivoting portion form a funnel having a tapered nozzle. The funnel has a plurality of holes, and the nozzle has a plurality of slots. The pivoting portion comprises a lever coupled to the funnel for pivoting the pivoting portion away from the stationary portion thereby opening the funnel and the nozzle.

Abstract: A fishing reel equipped with a fishhook hanger and a fishing rod using the fishing reel. The fishing rod includes a fishing rod body; and a reel body mounted to the fishing rod body, the reel body having a female or male locking part; and a fishhook hanger including a fishhook hanging part for hanging a fishhook thereon, a connection part extending from the fishhook hanging part, and a male or female locking part that extends from the connection part and corresponds to the locking part of the reel body, wherein the female or male locking part and the male or female locking part are configured to be removably locked to each other. The fishing rod further includes a holding unit that can hold a fishline, a fishhook, a sinker connected to the fishline, or a sinker connector that connects the sinker to the fishline.

Abstract: An apparatus to fish having a body with exterior and interior faces extending from a first edge to a first end. At least one shaped channel is defined at the interior face, each shaped channel has a first channel extending from the first edge, and a second channel extending from the first channel. The body further has a first wall that extends from the interior face at a first predetermined distance from the first edge. A housing assembly is removably mounted into the body. The housing assembly has a second wall with a second edge, a first base wall with a third edge, and a housing. A first outside diameter of the second wall is smaller than a first interior diameter of the interior face. Protrusions protrude from the second edge; and a handle fixed to the interior face.

Abstract: Methods and devices for recharging glow-in-the-dark fishing lures. Devices can include an internal cavity, an external opening into the cavity and a light source projecting into the cavity. Some cavities have an opaque, reflective wall and a light source projecting directly into the cavity. Other cavities have a translucent cavity wall and a light source shining in from outside of the cavity, through the cavity wall, and into the cavity. The light may be activated using a manual switch or an automatic switch which triggers upon detecting the passage of a lure into the cavity or the presence of a lure within the cavity. One such lure detector includes a weight sensitive electrical switch. Devices may resemble hand held mugs with handles or may be flange mounted into through-holes in boats decks.

Abstract: A fish release device is claimed, comprising a spring-loaded set of opposing members with tip portions capable of retaining the lip of a fish suffering from barotrauma to a depth sufficient to reverse the effects of barotrauma prior to releasing the fish. The opposing members cross over each other such that the jaws can be temporarily opened merely by tugging upward on the line attached to the device. Once the jaws are opened, the fish normally swims away rapidly, before the jaws close again. The device is small, compact, and can be used with a variety of fish species and sizes.

Abstract: A fishing apparatus includes a submersible central pole having a first end and also a weighted, second end. Floatable hinged ribs radiate from the first end of the central pole. Fabric disposed on the floatable hinged ribs becomes stretched over the floatable hinged ribs as the ribs go from a collapsed disposition adjacent the central pole to an open disposition radiating outwardly from the first end of the central pole.

Abstract: The Game Changer II (GCII) is a device designed to enhance the performance and presentation of rubber fishing baits used in fishing. GCII's sliding plunger bar allows for a straight and centered hole to be pre-set in rubber fishing baits. This pre-set hole is pivotal when applying the hook or jig head to the rubber bait in-that it allows the hook to follow the pre-set hole through the center of the bait. GCII is a plastic, single hinge unit with 2 moving parts (the lid and the sliding plunger bar) and 2 separate trays (1 for larger baits and 1 for smaller baits). With the lid in the open position and the sliding plunger bar (see diagram 4) in the extended position, the rubber bait is laid in the tray with the top of the rubber bait. flush against the inner wall of the GCII and the head of the bait at the plunger hole. Close the lid. Once the lid is closed apply minimal pressure on both the top and the bottom of the GCII.

Abstract: An apparatus to fish having a body with exterior and interior faces extending from a first edge to a first end. At least one shaped channel is defined at the interior face, each shaped channel has a first channel extending from the first edge, and a second channel extending from the first channel. The body further has a first wall that extends from the interior face at a first predetermined distance from the first edge. A housing assembly is removably mounted into the body. The housing assembly has a second wall with a second edge, a first base wall with a third edge, and a housing. A first outside diameter of the second wall is smaller than a first interior diameter of the interior face. Protrusions protrude from the second edge; and a handle fixed to the interior face.

Abstract: An artificial weed system for attracting fish while ice fishing, includes a flexible line having a distal end. At least one elongated rod is affixed to the line at a predetermined position. At least one artificial weed bundle is affixed to the rod and includes a first end that is affixed to the rod. The at least one artificial weed bundles include a plurality of strands extending from the first end. Each strand has a specific gravity that is no greater than 1.0 and each strand includes a synthetic filament. A weight is affixed to the distal end of the line.

Abstract: A stripping basket for use in fly fishing from surf or a jetty having a smooth interior surface free of protrusions and having a converging lower end and adapted to be mounted to one side of an angler below the waistline slightly tilted forward for facilitating line stripping and casting during use.

Abstract: A fishing protector and a method for use of the fishing protector at or near the sea bed by long-line fishing is provided to avoid that the catch is eaten by sea mammal when the line with the catch is hauled into a fishing boat. A gliding stopper is fastened at the termination of the line and thereafter the fishing protector is hooked on the line during the setting out of the line such that the line passes through the fishing protector. By hauling of the line the line is passing through the fishing protector and the catch is hooked off inside the fishing protector. An opening and closing mechanism at a first termination of the fishing protector closes the opening through which the fish passed, avoiding fish to escape.

Abstract: A fish release device is claimed, comprising a spring-loaded set of opposing members with tip portions capable of retaining the lip of a fish suffering from barotrauma to a depth sufficient to reverse the effects of barotrauma prior to releasing the fish. The opposing members cross over each other such that the jaws can be temporarily opened merely by tugging upward on the line attached to the device. Once the jaws are opened, the fish normally swims away rapidly, before the jaws close again. The device is small, compact, and can be used with a variety of fish species and sizes.