Abstract: Provided are titled fish hooks and methods and apparatus for making them and for using them and other fish hooks as well. The method and apparatus for the use is in fishing, and they take advantage of or discern unobtrusive colors, shades or colorless quality of the fish hooks to fish. A Braille apparatus for fishing is also provided.

Abstract: This publication relates to a system and a method for hauling fish gear, such as longlines, gillnets or demersal seine nets, into a fishing vessel (10) and collecting and transporting catch (12) to a working station, using a hatch (16) in a part of a hull exposed to the sea and arranged in a water line region (27) of the vessel (10); a vertical well (18) for receipt of at least pa rt of the catch through the hatch (16); a transport device for transporting the catch to the deck; and with means for bringing the catch to flow towards the transport device. The transport device (24,25) used is arranged in a shaft (19), separated from the well (18), and a closeable opening or hatch (23) is arranged in a wall or bulkhead (21) between the well (18) and the shaft (19) 127 and with devices for opening and closing the opening or hatch (23), and a bottom (22) in the shaft (19).

Abstract: A floating calibration target for an image sensor can include a plurality of hexagonally shaped floatation devices that each emit light at one or more predetermined wavelengths. The floating calibration target can also include a seine net circumscribing the plurality of hexagonally shaped floatation devices. The seine net draws the plurality of hexagonally shaped floatation devices toward each other to form a substantially contiguous surface for the floating calibration target.

Abstract: The barbless safety fishhook is a fishhook that is designed to keep a fish on the fishhook without the use of a barb. The barbless safety fishhook uses constant tension maintained on the fishing line to move the captured fish to a V shaped valley where the fish is secured. In addition, the barbless safety fishhook is fitted with three rubber brakes that prevent the fish from sliding towards the fishhook tip after capture. The barbless safety fishhook comprises a hook and a spring lock.

Abstract: A system and method to induce fish anesthetizing or narcosis is described that induces a potential field across the body of a laboratory fish having a pair of electrodes, the waveform generated by this potential field is approximately balanced to reduce the introduction of anions into the solution, and a camera is mounted to observe the activity of the fish, so that the potential difference may be adjusted based on the state of the fish.

Abstract: Devices and methods are disclosed for repelling elasmobranchs with high-pull-force magnets, including devices and methods for reducing by-catch in commercial fisheries and protecting humans from attacks by elasmobranchs.

Abstract: A method for producing a fishing net is disclosed. Some sections and the other sections of the net are respectively formed of threads different in dyeing property, and then the net is dyed.

Abstract: A device for determining tension in or on a line, including a housing mountable to a surface, an idler and a traveler sheave rotatably mounted on the housing, and a scale operatively engaged with the traveler sheave. A block and slot are provided on the housing. A spring disposed between the block and a portion of the housing is compressed when the block moves in a first direction and is released when the block moves in a second direction. The traveler sheave and an indicator are mounted on the block and move in unison therewith. The sheaves are aligned along the same plane and the block moves in a plane substantially parallel to the plane in which the sheaves are disposed. Markings are provided on the housing and the indicator aligns with one of these markings to indicate the tension applied to the line.

Abstract: A GPS shellfish trap setting system that indicates when to set shellfish traps at precise locations with controllable distance between shellfish traps to allow for efficient shellfish fishing is provided herein. The shellfish trap setting system receives a GPS signal, processes that signal to determine the precise distance at which to launch a shellfish trap from a fishing vessel, then displays that distance to a control unit monitored by a user. The GPS shellfish trap setting system also includes counters for counting the number of traps set and the number of shellfish deposited into a holding tank.

Abstract: A magnetic alligator clip is described. The alligator clip comprising, a pair of conductive gripping jaws attached to each other, biasing means for biasing a first end of the conductive gripping jaws towards each other, and a magnet disposed at the first end of one of the conductive gripping jaws. Also described is an electrical lead having at least one wire, each of the wires having a magnetic alligator clip electrically connected at each end. An extension for the magnetic alligator clip is also described.

Abstract: Herein we describe fishing gear having a degradable component comprising a polyhydroxyalkanoate polymer, as well as methods for ensuring that such gear has reduced functionality after becoming derelict. Derelict fishing gear has a negative economic and ecological impact, and thus it is advantageous to use gear that will lose the ability to catch and retain fish over time. Incorporating a degradable apparatus into such gear provides an effective, economical solution. Suitable degradable components are described herein.

Abstract: A method for dead stick fishing. The method includes casting a lure from a fishing rod to a selected spatial location in a body of water or slightly outside of the body of water. In a specific embodiment, the lure comprises at least a processor device coupled to a sound module and coupled to a lighting module. The method also includes allowing the lure settle and be substantially motionless state, e.g., lying with little or slight movement or suspended or floating with little or slight movement from the angler. The method includes transferring a combination of audio information and electromagnetic radiation from the lure to a region of water surrounding a vicinity of the lure to entice a predator fish to strike the lure while the lure is in the substantially motionless state.

Abstract: A jointed fishing hook is provided. The jointed fishing hook includes a top shank and a bottom shank. The top shank includes a first end and a second end. The first end of the top shank forms a first eye. The bottom shank includes a first end and a second end. The second end of the bottom shank includes a bend forming a hook. The second end of the top shank is pivotally connected to the first end of the bottom shank. Therefore, the bottom shank may freely move relative to the top shank.

Abstract: Devices for automatic fishing line release during a cast using the acceleration and deceleration of the rod to automatically release the fishing line. In one embodiment, the device is in an under-the-rod position. In another embodiment, the devices is in an over-the-rod position. In other embodiments, the over or under the rod function is determined by manufacturer or user adjustments or changes.

Abstract: A fishing lure and method of casting are disclosed. In one aspect, a lure assembly includes a fishing hook having an eyelet and a bend separated by a shank, the bend terminating at a point separated from the shank by a gape. The lure assembly further includes a hook appurtenance attached to the fishing hook and positioned past the bend generally aligned with the shank of the fishing hook. The hook appurtenance includes an ergonomic mass forming a resilient structure for gripping by a person, the ergonomic mass having a size smaller than a gape of the hook to avoid interfering with operation of the fishing hook.

Abstract: A steerable fishing lure with highly improved steerability is disclosed. The fishing lure has a generally hollow body having an inner surface and a generally tubular cam sleeve located inside the body and fixedly attached to the inner surface. The cam sleeve has a forward cam surface and an aft cam surface. A generally cylindrical rotor is slideably inserted into the cam sleeve. The rotor has a forward cam and an aft cam. Each of the forward cam and the aft cam extends outwardly from the rotor such that the forward cam rides along the forward cam surface and the aft cam rides along the aft surface. A biasing member is mounted within the body. The biasing member is adapted to bias the forward cam against the forward cam surface. A method of redirecting a track of the fishing lure is also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to an improved mechanism to hold fishing rods in place. The invention allows a fisherman to secure a fishing rod to secondary objects of multiple shapes.

Abstract: A fishing pole system includes a shaft having a hollow interior with a cap connected to its upper end and a point connected to its lower end. A slide is positioned within the hollow interior and an internal lead is connected to the slide at its lower end, the internal lead extends through the cap and connects to a swivel at its upper end. The slide includes a locking mechanism which engages a locking mechanism connected to the point. In use, the cap end of the fishing pole is banged on the ground which releases the slide from the point and the internal lead is paid-out from the hollow interior. To store the fishing pole, the slide is withdrawn within the hollow interior by gravity. When fully withdrawn, the point is banged into the ground causing the slide to lock to the point and the fishing pole is stored away.

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: 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 ice fishing fish containment device for securing a caught fish within a hole for ice fishing. The device including a tubular sidewall extending the depth of the hole. The sidewall having a bracket on its lower end. A flapper having a top side with a grasping member higedly attached to the bracket, wherein the upward movement of a fish into the hole with displace flapper temporarily until the fish enters the hole clearing the height of the flapper. The flapper will then close securing the fish with the hole.

Abstract: A device to attract fish that causes streamlined motion of a line or lure when the device is drawn through water. The device contains a channel through which may be inserted a fishing line or a shaft, a multiplicity of arms extending radially from the exterior of the channel, and a multiplicity of blades connected to the arms, wherein the blades extend from the arms in a direction that is substantially parallel to the direction of the channel.

Abstract: Winter fish traps and methods of using the same are disclosed. A method of trapping fish is provided that includes locating a substantially immobile group of fish in a body of water, providing a semi-rigid water-permeable trap having a bottom opening, lowering the trap opening over the group of fish onto a bottom surface of the body of water to trap the group of fish, remotely operating a semi-rigid door to cover the trap opening while the fish trap is resting on the bottom surface, and retrieving the fish trap from the body of water.

Abstract: A system for reducing trawl bycatch, the system including at least one light arranged externally of the net to stimulate a phototactic response in the major bycatch species present to reduce entry of such species into the net.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a device for retrieving a fish caught on a fishing line, the device including a receptacle for passing along the fishing line and then receiving the caught fish, and a retriever for retrieving the receptacle and the fish.

Abstract: To provide a better experience for ice fisherman and fisherman generally, the present inventor devised, among other things, apparatus, assemblies, components, and methods for holding a fishing device, such as a fishing rod. One exemplary apparatus includes an adjustable rod holder pivotably mounted or coupled to a base structure. The rod holder, which can be strapped or otherwise attached to one or more types of fishing rods or poles, has an adjustable center of gravity and/or an adjustable pivot point. The adjustable center of gravity and/or pivot point allows users to balance the fishing rod at various tip angles, up or down, and thus to position the rod in a way most suitable for the type of desired fish. The exemplary apparatus is particularly suitable as a replacement for the conventional tip-ups used in ice fishing, because it provides advantages of conventional rod & reel fishing with those of conventional tip-down fishing.

Abstract: Devices and methods are disclosed for repelling elasmobranchs with electropositive metals, including apparatuses and methods for reducing by-catch in commercial fisheries and protecting humans from attacks by elasmobranchs.

Abstract: A fish capturing device is provided. The device includes a pair of cage members having a first position in which an opening is defined therebetween through which a fish may be passed and a second position in which each of the cage members are pivoted until the cage members are nested together to form an enclosure for enclosing a fish therein. A latch is configured for latching the pair of cage members into the first position and releasing the pair of cage members into the second position. A tensioner applies tension to the pair of cage members to bias the cage members into the second position to enclose the fish within the pair of cages.

Abstract: To provide a better experience for ice fisherman and fisherman generally, the present inventor devised, among other things, apparatus, assemblies, components, and methods for holding a fishing device, such as a fishing rod. One exemplary apparatus includes an adjustable rod holder pivotably mounted or coupled to a base structure. The rod holder, which can be strapped or otherwise attached to one or more types of fishing rods or poles, has an adjustable center of gravity and/or an adjustable pivot point. The adjustable center of gravity and/or pivot point allows users to balance the fishing rod at various tip angles, up or down, and thus to position the rod in a way most suitable for the type of desired fish. The exemplary apparatus is particularly suitable as a replacement for the conventional tip-ups used in ice fishing, because it provides advantages of conventional rod & reel fishing with those of conventional tip-down fishing.

Abstract: An apparatus for harvesting aquatic animals has a cod end portion and an elongate lengthener portion. The cod end portion has an open leading end and a closed trailing end and side wall(s), the side wall(s) and the trailing end being substantially impervious to water. The elongate lengthener portion has a leading end, a trailing end, and side wall(s), at least a major part of the side wall(s) comprising a material substantially impervious to water. The trailing end of the lengthener portion is operatively connected to the leading end of the cod end portion. The elongate lengthener portion comprises a plurality of escapements through which water can pass from an interior to an exterior of the apparatus to cause a general reduction in the water flow rate inside the apparatus when the apparatus is submerged in a body of water and there is water flow relative to the apparatus.

Abstract: A mechanized trolling device includes a flotation chamber, a power source and motor in a water-tight enclosed chamber, and a sheltered impeller. The device travels many times the distance that an angler can cast, and automatically shuts off after a set period of time. A fishing line attached to the device can be deployed so the angler can fish at the depth of the water where the device has travelled.

Abstract: The present invention relates in general to fishing lures, and more specifically, to a contracting fishing lure that provides life-like movement to mimic live bait. The fishing lure is configured so that when the fishing lure is retrieved (e.g., reeled in) or jigged by an angler, or the fishing line is pulled or twitched, the fishing lure transitions from a first non-contracted position to a second contracted position. The purpose of the invention is to provide a fishing lure that will successfully attract fish by displaying a unique action in the water.

Abstract: A fishing rod butt for use with a fishing reel and a rod blank and process for operating the butt generally includes depressing a spring loaded button of a hinge assembly coupling a link end of a first elongate member and a U-shaped end of a second elongate member configured to receive the link end of the first elongate member. The first elongate member including an open end configured to receive a rod blank and an adjustable reel seat for receiving a fishing rod reel. The spring loaded button includes an elongate body and at least one transverse member extending from a long axis thereof, wherein depressing the spring loaded button compresses a biased spring and disengages the at least one transverse member from a first notch within the hinge assembly.

Abstract: A fishing apparatus is provided for ice fishing that can be used unattended. The apparatus can include a substantially vertical tower member, a crane member rotatably attached to the tower member and a fishing line spool rotatably attached to the tower member. Fishing line from the spool can be fed through a guide disposed on one end of the crane member to receive a hook. The crane member and spool can be held in place with threaded studs and wing nuts to keep the crane member and spool from rotating freely. The apparatus can also include means for visually indicating when a fish is hooked. These means can include fluorescent markings on one or both ends of the crane member or a self-powered light mechanism that lights a light bulb when the crane member is tipped downwards thereby indicating that a fish has been caught.

Abstract: A line release clip that generates an electronic alert upon opening independent of the release tension adjustment is provided. In one embodiment, the line release clip includes a body, a line retainer coupled to the body, a release adjustment mechanism and a release alarm. The line retainer is rotatable between a closed position and an open position. The release adjustment mechanism is operable to control force required to move the line retainer from the closed position. The release alarm is operable to emit at least one of an audible sound or light in response to the line retainer moving from the closed position, thereby alerting fisherman of the release of the fishing line from the clip.

Abstract: A swim bait fishing lure. The lure has a longitudinally aligned tapering supple body with a drag producing flipper substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis and a longitudinal length. The tapering supple body further has: a base portion adjacent to the drag producing flipper. The base portion has a base transverse width. The lure also has a pendulum hinge portion positioned a pendulum distance at least one third of the longitudinal length forward from the drag producing flipper. The pendulum hinge portion has a pendulum transverse width a substantially smallest width of the tapering supple body. The base transverse width is substantially larger than the pendulum transverse width which provides a transversely narrowing taper along the tapering supple body from the base portion to the pendulum hinge portion.

Abstract: A beverage container useful for fishing includes a recessed channel for receiving and dispensing fishing line. The container with a fishing line spool is configured such that a hand-line-fishing device is provided without the need for a fishing pole. Optionally, the spool is removable from the beverage container body and may be rotatably mounted with respect thereto.

Abstract: A system and method for sorting fish where the system comprises;—a trawl (2) consisting of at least one trawl bag (3, 3?, 3?), and where the at least one trawl bag (3, 3?, 3?) has an opening which covers a part of an inflow area in the trawl (2),—at least one monitoring device (6) arranged in connection with the inflow area and where signals can be transmitted to a processing unit from the at least one monitoring device (6), and—where a device, based on data from the processing unit, can move the opening in the at least one trawl bag (3, 3?, 3?) to a position where fish flow through the inflow area but on the outside of the at least one trawl bag (3, 3?, 3?).

Abstract: The floatable, universally mountable fishing rod holder has base incorporating a rod holder for holding the handle of a fishing rod, a floatable portion for floating the fishing rod holder should the fishing rod holder fall into water so it can be recovered, and a plurality of mountings for mounting the fishing rod holder to any of a deck, a dock, a boat, a railing, a post, any of a 2?×4? to 2?×8? lumber, over a T joint formed between two perpendicular rails, railings or posts, whether vertically or horizontally oriented, as well as to ground. Said mountings include one or more clamps, straps, a deck plate and ground engaging stake and fasteners and wing nuts for attachment to the base.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for joining a fishing line to another fishing component, for adjusting the buoyancy of fishing components, and for cutting a fishing line.

Abstract: Devices and methods are disclosed for repelling elasmobranchs with high-pull-force magnets, including devices and methods for reducing by-catch in commercial fisheries and protecting humans from attacks by elasmobranchs.

Abstract: Herein we describe fishing gear having a degradable identification component comprising a polyhydroxyalkanoate polymer, as well as methods for ensuring that such identification component degrades quickly after detachment. Aquatic debris has a negative economic and ecological impact, and thus it is advantageous to use implements that will degrade into environmentally benign compounds. Incorporating a degradable identification component into fishing gear provides an effective, economical solution. Suitable degradable identification components are described herein.

Abstract: A float fishing apparatus and method of use are described primarily for fishing in lakes and ponds. The apparatus includes a cylindrical weight inside an elongated hollow shaft which will readily slide to upright the fishing apparatus from a horizontal position to a vertical position when a successful struck by a fish is made. An LED light casts a broad light pattern on the water when the apparatus is in an upright position to easily identify the state of the fishing apparatus. A rotatable reel with attached fishing line allows the line to be adjusted to a desired length and can then be secured with a reel catch to secure the reel in a non-rotatable position.

Abstract: A fishing lure for fishing in a body of water including a head having a proximate end and a distal end, the head having a chamber therein communicating with an opening in its distal end and a hook through the proximate end of the head. A hook extends through the chamber from the proximate end of the head and through the opening of the distal end. The hook has an eye for connecting to a fishing line. Artificial bait is disposed on the hook and extends into the chamber in the head. The head is shaped for imparting oscillating side-to-side movement to the head relative to the bait and hook as the lure moves through water.

Abstract: An electronic circuit in a fishing lure in the water is activated to broadcast a pre-recorded actual or simulated sound of a bait creature and or create lifelike bait creature motion. A switch in the lure activates a sound chip and a micro speaker, a water sensing automatic on-off switch turns the power on and off, and the battery is charged by an external charging coil. An alternate embodiment automatically activates the fishing lure device to replicate bait animals in size, shape, movement and sound.

Abstract: Devices for automatic fishing line release during a cast using the acceleration and deceleration of the rod to automatically release the fishing line. In one embodiment, the device is in an under-the-rod position. In another embodiment, the devices is in an over-the-rod position. In other embodiments, the over or under the rod function is determined by manufacturer or user adjustments or changes.

Abstract: A fish attractor that can be a transparent or translucent hollow ball, or other shape with a plurality of holes in its surface to allow water to flow in and out. A removable lid or other access allows putting bait into the device. The device, which is filled with water, acts as a tank for the bait to swim around in or otherwise be displayed. The device can then be suspended from a line or float, or otherwise inserted under the surface of the water. When a larger fish spots the device, it sees only the bait. If it attacks the device or even approaches it, the bait fish inside are protected, but become highly agitated. This can cause the larger fish to go into a feeding frenzy trying to get at the bait which in turn attracts even more fish.

Abstract: A fish hook including a hook member for engaging a fish and a harpoon member for engaging a bait, the hook member including a shank, a bend and a point, and the harpoon member including a shank and a barb. The hook shank and harpoon shank may be affixed together or formed from a common wire, and include a common eye for attaching a fishing line. The harpoon shank may parallel the hook shank, may be off-set or bent, and may include multiple barbs. The harpoon member is inserted into a bait in a first direction, thereby retaining the bait on the harpoon member while the fish hook is aimed in a second direction.

Abstract: A fishing device has a device body having an outer surface, a conduit extending through the device body, an annular groove in the outer surface of the device body extending at least partially around the device body, and an annular wedge positioned around the device body and within the annular groove. In use, a fishing line is positioned through the conduit and wrapped completely around the annular groove. The annular wedge is adapted to lock the fishing line in the annular groove.

Abstract: An inflatable fishing device. The inflatable fishing device may include an inflatable tube that may include an air fill and release port, and a fishing line. The inflatable tube may also include a handle. The fishing line may be segmented by a line adjuster. The inflatable tube rotates from a substantially horizontal position to a substantially vertical position when a fish has taken the bait that may be attached to the end of the fishing line by way of a swivel snap and hook.