Abstract: The present invention discloses a garment or accessory worn for fishing that comprises a magnet of sufficient size and strength to hold fishing hooks or lures.

Abstract: A bait bridle is uniquely designed to connect a hook to bait while allowing the entire hook to be exposed for enhanced hooking capabilities and free movement of the bait. The addition of a small elastic band to the hook end of the bridle holds the hook firmly in place, yet allows easy removal when desired. The re-usable bridle system of the present invention can be switched from one hook to another hook with no damage to bait or the bridle. The bridle system of the present invention allows for free movement of the bait and full exposure of the hook. The bait bridle can be easily opened and closed to placement or removal of bait with the bridle on or off the hook.

Abstract: A water toy comprises an elongated buoyant body, a front attachment point, a weighted figurine, and a fin. The elongated buoyant body has a nose, a tail, a top surface, and a bottom surface. The top surface and the bottom surface meet at an outer edge. The front attachment point is disposed upon the bottom surface at the nose. The front attachment point comprises an aperture. The weighted figurine is disposed upon the top surface toward the nose. The fin extends from the bottom surface toward the tail. The water toy may comprise a rear attachment point for attaching a fish hook or lure and/or a water foil disposed upon the bottom surface at the tail.

Abstract: A fishing lure including a body and a mounting assembly configured to releasably hold a hook array to the body. The mounting assembly includes an eye retainer for pivotally retaining an eye of the hook array, and a catch spaced from the eye retainer, the catch adapted to engage two shafts of the hook array. The catch is shaped to engage and release the hook array subsequent to elastic relative movement between the two shafts. The eye retainer maybe any suitable shape permitting loading of the hook. The catch may include a contact section positioned for first contact with a hook array when loading onto the catch, and a retention section for positioning of the hook array when loaded.

Abstract: An improved fishing rod holder is provided that includes a base assembly, a rod holder assembly, and a connecting member that connects the base and rod holder assemblies. The connecting member is connected to the rod holder assembly with a first T-joint. The rod holder assembly is configured to hold two fishing poles. The first T-joint is removable from the connecting member such that the connecting member and base assembly may be filled with water or sand to weigh down the fishing rod holder. In a second embodiment the rod holder assembly and the connecting member are the same, but the base assembly is replaced with a triangular-shaped base assembly. In third embodiment stabilization in enhanced, in a fourth embodiment fewer components are required, and in a fifth embodiment a canoe embodiment is presented.

Abstract: An improved artificial fishing lure is provided that comprises a lure body with a hook attached to the rear end, a plurality of discs disposed along the body of the lure, and a spoon portion disposed at the front end of the body. The plurality of discs may be the type of discs traditionally used in fastening jewelry pins. The plurality of discs and the spoon portion of the artificial lure provide random movement through the water, as well as light reflection, to catch the attention of fish in the area.

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-up fishing.

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: An improved automatic jigging device comprising a motorized wheel having cutouts of a multitude of geometric shapes, sizes, and textures, a support arm with a fulcrum, and a jigging arm with a clamp for holding a fishing line. The fulcrum is inserted into the cutout and the rotational movement of the wheel transfers the movement to the fulcrum. The movement of the fulcrum is transferred to the clamp through the support arm and the jigging arm. The clamp holding the fishing line transfers the irregular, life-like movement to the fishing line. Throughout the fishing experience, the type of irregular, life-like movement of the fishing line may be changed by inserting the fulcrum into a cutout with a different geometric shape, size, and texture.

Abstract: Various embodiments provide fishing jig having improved head, weed guard, and adjustable fall features. Trailing weights are adjustable in size and/or position within the jig, provide for adjustment of the fall characteristics of a given jig for a given situation. Movement of weights forward along the jig cause the jig to fall more forwardly, and vice versa. All else being the same, increasing size of weights at a given position on the rear of the jig cause the jig to fall more rearwardly, and vice versa. Thus a rear weight that can be adjusted in size, shape, and position or completely removed and reused, without destroying the jig or weight system. Also provided is a wire coil and a skirt-mounting collar on the same lure, providing improved weedless capability. Also provided is a jig with a “dropped” line attachment eye, giving an upward movement when the lure is pulled in.

Abstract: A strike indicator that indicates when a fish bites and reduces false positives, comprising a light source, a power source, a printed circuit board, an accelerometer integrated circuit mounted on said printed circuit board, and a microcontroller mounted on said printed circuit board. The strike indicator may be housed in a fishing rod, with the light source illuminating the tip of the rod. The accelerometer detects acceleration of the rod, and the microcontroller utilizes an algorithm to determine whether the acceleration is due to a fish biting or due to other causes. If the acceleration is due to a fish biting, the light source is activated, alerting the user that a fish is biting.

Abstract: An ice fishing device is provided by the present disclosure including a collapsible elevated stand secured at one end to a base and a pivoting support at another end. The pivoting support includes a clamp for receiving a fishing rod at a variable location. The fishing rod is maintained in an inclined orientation when baited, and pivots to a declined orientation in response to receiving a fish on its line. The pivoting support and fishing rod may be disengaged from to stand after receiving a fish on the line to set the hook and reel in the fish.

Abstract: A storage and transfer bag system are disclosed for use in tournament fishing competitions. A living fish can be stored in the storage bag, which is kept in a live well until the storage bag with living fish therein is placed in a transfer bag that is partially filled with water. The storage bag is made from a mesh fabric, enabling water to be drained from the storage bag. After draining the water from the storage bag, the storage bag and living fish are weighed, and the weight of the fish computed. The storage bag and living fish are then placed back into the transfer bag and transported to the lake or river or other body of water. The storage bag and living fish are removed from the transfer bag and the fish released without human contact.

Abstract: A device for spearing a fish may include a shaft having a spearing tip at a first end thereof. A first grip may be attached to a second end of the shaft. A second grip may be slidably engaged with the shaft. An extension spring may be interposed between and may be attached to the first grip and the second grip.

Abstract: Fish traps and methods of using the same are disclosed. A disclosed example fish trap includes a holding chamber having an opening through which a fish may pass, and a bait chamber abutting the holding chamber and separated from the holding chamber by a water permeable barrier.

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: A bi-metal power supply fishing lure comprises a housing having a water-tight internal cavity, an exterior surface, a forward end and an aft end; an anode mounted into said exterior surface of said housing such that said anode is exposed to an electrolyte when said bi-metal power supply fishing lure is immersed in said electrolyte; a cathode mounted into said housing such that said anode is exposed to an electrolyte when said bi-metal power supply fishing lure is immersed in said electrolyte; an electronic assembly, mounted within said water-tight internal cavity of said housing, in electrical contact with said anode and said cathode thereby creating a galvanic cell when said bi-metal power supply fishing lure is immersed in said electrolyte, said electronic assembly designed and configured to generate, store, regulate and distribute electrical power; and a low-voltage direct current device.

Abstract: An electrofishing controller includes a power input, an output and a user interface for receiving configuration information from a user. The controller further includes control circuitry for receiving electric power from the power input, generating an electric waveform with characteristics defined by the configuration information, and communicating the electric waveform to the output. The control circuitry is configured to automatically adjust the electric waveform in response to changes in an electric load on the output, and to automatically restore the electric waveform when the electric load returns to a normal operating level. The control circuitry is further configured to automatically reconfigure a power circuit in response to changes in the configuration information received from the user, including changing physical connections between physical components of the power circuit.

Abstract: Herein we describe crustacean fishing traps having degradable cull ring panels, as well as methods for ensuring that such traps have reduced functionality after becoming derelict. Derelict crab and lobster traps have a negative economic and ecological impact, and thus it is advantageous to use degradable traps that will lose their ability to catch and retain fish over time. Incorporating degradable cull ring panels into such traps provides an effective, economical solution. Suitable degradable cull ring panels are described herein.

Abstract: A motion system for fishing lures provides vibration, buzz and hum to a conventional fishing lure or that is integrated to an interior portion of a fishing lure. The motion system enables the lure to give of signals and/or vibrations like a wounded fish may give off, without the fisherperson moving the lure. The motion system of the present invention can work in murky, stained water and at night to help fish locate the lure. The motion system may include a containment system that holds a coin/pancake type vibrator that is connected with a battery, typically a button-type battery.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a rod and reel leash system wherein a restraint line is attached to the rod and reel that comprises a variable drag which increases as the restraint line is taken from the spool so that the chance of a sudden stop at the end of the line is reduced along with a reduction in the chance of, breaking the fishing line or damaging the rod and reel.

Abstract: A pole with a device on one end thereof is adapted to hook or grab a line that is attached to a jug or noodle to allow the user to pull in the jug or noodle without having to lean over the side of a boat and physically grab the jug or noodle from the water. The pole of the present invention will allow all anglers, including the young, elderly and others, to enjoy the fun, action and excitement of jug fishing without the fear of losing one's balance when retrieving the jug or noodle.

Abstract: A tube-type fishing lure comprises a head portion, body portion, and tail portion having respective inner surfaces that define corresponding sections of a hollow channel which extends longitudinally through the lure. The channel is configured for water to flow through the lure by entering through the head portion, passing through the body portion, and exiting through the tail portion. The head section of the channel narrows or tapers from a diameter defined at a leading edge of the head portion to a narrower width corresponding to a diameter of the body section of the channel. When the lure is pulled, twitched, and/or retrieved (e.g., reeled in) when on a fishing line, the head portion leads, and water flows through the lure in a direction opposite to the direction in which the lure travels.

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: An improved automatic jigging device comprising a motorized wheel having cutouts of a multitude of geometric shapes, sizes, and textures, a support arm with a fulcrum, and a jigging arm with a clamp for holding a fishing line. The fulcrum is inserted into the cutout and the rotational movement of the wheel transfers the movement to the fulcrum. The movement of the fulcrum is transferred to the clamp through the support arm and the jigging arm. The clamp holding the fishing line transfers the irregular, life-like movement to the fishing line. Throughout the fishing experience, the type of irregular, life-like movement of the fishing line may be changed by inserting the fulcrum into a cutout with a different geometric shape, size, and texture.

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 strike indicator has a hollow plastic spherical body with an opening through which water can flow into the body to weight the body for spin cast fishing and out of which water can be removed from the body for fly cast fishing. An easily manipulable thumbscrew can engage the opening to selectively block the opening while trapping a fishing line between a grommet on the thumbscrew and the spherical body to hold the strike indicator onto the fishing line.

Abstract: Bait enhancer and methods of forming bait enhancer. Some embodiments provide bait enhancer comprising a first portion of red cabbage juice and a second portion containing at least one of a chemical selected from the group consisting of magnesium hydroxide, aluminum hydroxide and simethicone wherein the first portion and the second portion are mixed together and, perhaps, are believed to react to form a product. Optionally, the first and second portions can be about equal amounts by volume. Moreover, a 5 milliliter amount of the second portion can include about 200 milligrams of magnesium hydroxide, about 153 milligrams of the aluminum hydroxide and about 20 mg of the simethicone. In some embodiments the bait enhancer is applied to a fishing lure. Furthermore, the bait enhancer can be refrigerated at or less than about 45 degrees Fahrenheit.

Abstract: An ice fishing device enclosed in a housing and configured for indicating that a fish has taken the bait is disclosed. The device provides a curved rod having a portion external to the housing and a portion internal to the housing comprising a hooked end adapted for clasping onto a handle tip of the fishing spool. The hooked end will release from the handle tip when a fish tugs on the fishing line thereby moving the spool and the handle tip away from the hooked end. Once the hook is released, the curved rod containing a flag repositions to an upright position alerting the fisherman that the fish is ready to be pulled out of the ice.

Abstract: Apparatuses and methods for attracting aquatic animals are provided. In one embodiment, an apparatus for attracting aquatic animals includes a submersible speaker adapted to emit a pre-recorded sound for attracting an aquatic animal. The pre-recorded sound includes tactile sound. The apparatus also includes a controller in communication with the submersible speaker. The controller is adapted to be coupled to an above-water portion of a boat. The controller includes a user interface comprising one or more user-selectable options. The controller is adapted to send a signal to the submersible speaker in response to detecting a selection of one of the user-selectable options, and the submersible speaker emits the pre-recorded, sound in response to receiving the signal.

Abstract: A mechanized collector for collecting juvenile lobsters to be raised in a growout system is disclosed. The mechanized collector may be formed from a vessel, a longline support system capable of supporting and suspending a longline having a plurality of juvenile lobster collectors above a deck of the vessel, and a shaker assembly positioned to engage at least one of the plurality of juvenile lobster collectors suspended above the deck of the vessel and attached to the longline. The shaker assembly may be configured to shake the plurality of juvenile lobster collectors individually or collectively together, thereby causing the juvenile lobsters to fall into a collection trough positioned under the collector. The plurality of juvenile lobster collectors may be attached to the longline and formed from at least one generally flat panel that is suspended generally vertically in water above the longline with at least one float.

Abstract: A fishing lure imitating a winged prey has a cylindrical body having a conical front end and a rounded rear end, one or more first groupings of flexible strands, the multi-strand groupings disposed transversely through walls of the cylindrical body and secured thereto, the free ends of each multi-strand group protruding substantially orthogonally from the cylindrical body on opposite sides to imitate bird wings, one or more second groupings of flexible strands disposed through a rear wall of the cylindrical body and secured thereto, the free end of each multi-strand grouping protruding from the rear of the cylindrical body to imitate a bird tail, and a hook assembly disposed longitudinally through the cylindrical body, the hook assembly including a shank having a closed front eyelet and a partially open rear eyelet, and a hook attached to the shank at the rear eyelet.

Abstract: A frog lure device that has a life-like swimming action. The device has a diving “collar” disposed around an upper region of the lure body, rather than a lower region, which is common in conventional lure devices. In a specific embodiment, the collar causes the lure body to dive under the surface like a frog. Concurrent with the diving action, the lure device also has a kicking action to resemble a living frog device. The collar also forms a trail of one or more bubbles and a vortex, or slight vacuum behind it. In a specific embodiment, the lure body includes a pair of legs, which have a suitable length to be caught in the vortex and become trapped in the vortex. the pair of legs also straighten out to cause a kicking action and also provide stability to the lure body as it accelerates through the water.

Abstract: An ice fishing apparatus particularly suited to fishing in deeper waters where the ability to reel in a fish without tangling a line. The apparatus is suited to accommodate a wide variety of standard pole and reel configurations. The apparatus also has a hook setting mechanism.

Abstract: Herein we describe crustacean fishing traps having degradable cull panels, as well as methods for ensuring that such traps have reduced functionality after becoming derelict. Derelict crab and lobster traps have a negative economic and ecological impact, and thus it is advantageous to use crustacean fishing traps that will lose their ability to catch and retain fish over time. Incorporating degradable cull panels into such traps provides an effective, economical solution. Suitable degradable cull panels are described herein.

Abstract: A fishing hook is plated with, coated with, or contains an antimicrobial substance to treat the impalement wound of a fish caused by the hook. Specifically the hook includes at least one shank; at least one bend that extends from the shank; at least one point defined by a free end of the bend, wherein the fish hook contains a substance whose purpose is to minimize infection and to treat the puncture wound of a fish that is caught. The substance optionally acts to sterilize the hook to reduce the entrance of microbes into the wound when the puncture occurs. The substance may also contain an anti-inflammatory or a pain reliever to reduce the suffering of the fish or of others accidentally injured by the hook.

Abstract: An electronic fishing device for facilitating trolling a fish-catching element in water and a related system, method, and use, the fishing device including: a first sensing element for obtaining a first indication relating to water temperature, a second sensing element for obtaining a second indication relating to the depth of the device, a steering member for adjusting the depth of the device, a processing unit for controlling, via the first and/or second indication provided by the first and second sensing elements, the steering member so as to guide the device relative to at least one element selected from the group consisting of: the position of the thermocline layer, a predetermined depth, and a predetermined temperature. In addition to fishing the disclosed device may be utilized in marine or other underwater research.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a multi-hull fishing boat having a bow, a stern opposite the bow and a bottom. The boat includes a pair of spaced-apart pontoons operatively connected together. The boat includes a first gate near the bow of the boat configured to selectively extend across the space between the pair of pontoons. The boat includes a second gate near the stern of the boat configured to selectively extend across the space between the pair of pontoons. The boat includes a third gate configured to selectively extend across the space between the pair of pontoons by the bottom of the boat. The first gate, the second gate, the third gate and the pair of pontoons form an enclosure for trapping fish.

Abstract: An “implant and forget” device for interacting with biota after a pre-established time period. Preferably, the biota are fauna and more particularly fish. In select embodiments, the device comprises packaging enclosing an apparatus for timing interaction via opening the packaging. In select embodiments of the present invention, the device is a sealed capsule inserted in fish. Embodiments of the present invention are implanted in triploid grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) to facilitate control of aquatic weeds in bodies of water. When the carp have been in the water for a pre-established approximate period of time, toxins in the device are dispensed via long term bioerosion of the sealed opening in the packaging. Otherwise, the carp may destroy all vegetation and harm the aquatic environment for other aquatic life. Several alternative bioerodible seal configurations are provided as embodiments.

Abstract: A fishing lure capable of sufficiently catching fish, while not getting caught in weeds or similar environments. The lure generally comprises a hook and a main body, with the hook having a barbed portion abutting the underside or belly of the main body when in a normal position and being located externally of the main body when engaging a fish.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a mechanical device that replicates the repetitive motion utilized by fishermen in a process known as “ripping”. The ripping process is replicated by use of a mechanical device that rapidly moves heavy fishing line about two feet in the horizontal direction in order to lure walleye to strike at a lure or baited hook. When a walleye strikes the lure, the force-actuated quick-release mechanism releases the line and the line is then completely controlled and attached to the fishing rod.

Abstract: A fishing lure for receiving a bait fish comprises a mounting body and a fixing means (3) for fixing a bait fish to the mounting body. The mounting body comprising a support rod (5) for inserting into the mouth of a bait fish to support the mounted bait fish and a retaining means (4, 7) disposed on the support rod (5) for abutting a head portion of the bait fish. The mounting body is adapted not to conceal, in use, eyes of a bait fish mounted on the mounting body.

Abstract: A saltwater fishing assembly includes a body resembling a forage fish. The body includes a quick connect device that is swivelable relative to a fishing line and is reelable to a fishing rod tip. A quick connection subassembly is connectable to the quick connect device of the body and includes a hook and is releasable with a hooked fish. Methods of using the fishing assembly are also provided.

Abstract: A device is provided for securing against crime-of-opportunity theft at least one fishing rod and reel to be stored or transported in an outdoor, unsecured area or on an open, unsecured portion of a vehicle, such as an open bed of a pick-up truck, trailer, or boat.

Abstract: The inventive subject matter describes systems and methods for an improved mobile electrofishing apparatus. The improved electrofishing apparatus incorporates a control system to adjust the voltage, current, and frequency settings of the electrofisher in response to conductivity and temperature measurements in the water.

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 system is disclosed that includes a selectively positionable brake for a towed fishing body. Additionally, a system is disclosed that includes a speed control for a planer board. The planer board is used for fishing by being towed through water. Moreover, a method is disclosed including positioning a brake attached to a towed fishing body.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for adjusting the buoyancy of a fishing bobber. The method includes providing a buoyant member and a stem guide configured to receive the buoyant member, mounting the buoyant member to the stem guide and cutting the buoyant member. The buoyant member is made of a material capable of being severed by a cutting device and having first length, a lower end, and an upper end. The stem guide receives the buoyant member and a fishing line with fishing tackle. The buoyant member is cut such that the buoyant member has a second length shorter than the first length. The buoyant member is cut to a second length such that the buoyancy of the buoyant member when cut to a second length is enough to oppose the tendency of the stem guide and fishing tackle to submerse the buoyant member such that a top surface of the cut buoyant member is adjacent to the surface of the water when the stem guide, buoyant member, fishing line and any fishing tackle are placed in the water.

Abstract: The disclosed subject matter concerns a system and related method that forms a wall of bubbles, which is used to catch fish. The system consists of or can include, at least, two boats, two or more chambers, a suction pump, a compressor and a device that forms a wall of bubbles, constituted by one or more bubble making chambers, one or more conducting chambers, conducting tubes, floating tubes and ballast, which, by forming a “net” of bubbles, enables fish to be trapped and subsequently caught. Thus, the disclosed subject matter is useful for catching fish in a more economical and ecological manner, eliminating conventional nets and reducing the level of non-target species being caught. Another advantage is an improvement in the quality of the catch. This system can be used in the fishing industry and in aquaculture.

Abstract: A lightweight and maneuverable fish attracting and trolling lure designed for use in trolling or by a stationary caster. The device comprises a planar body surface that is allowed to freely rotate, two extending fins that provide stability and cause lateral movement, an attachment arm with a stopping surface to maneuver the device, a rear attachment pivot that oscillates and provides torque on the bait, and a variable weight positioned near the front of the device. The configuration of the two extending fins, rear attachment pivot, and rotation of the freely rotational arm provides lateral sinusoidal movement, vertical and lateral oscillation, vibration, and noise that is beneficial to attract a number of species of fish.