Minnow Buckets Patents (Class 43/56)
  • Patent number: 11930802
    Abstract: A towable live well device for storing fish in a floating live well towed behind a vessel includes a container which tapers from a rear end to a tow end and defines an interior space. A rear edge of a perimeter wall of the container defines an opening to the interior space. A porous rear wall extends across the opening and is configured for permitting a water through the opening and containing a fish in the interior space. A container door opens and closes a container aperture for placing the fish into the interior space. A flotation member is coupled to the container and has a density such that it is configured to float the device. A tow bracket is coupled to the container and is configured for securely tying to a tow line for towing the device by a vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2022
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2024
    Inventors: Calvin Karns, Larry Karns
  • Patent number: 11906093
    Abstract: Some embodiments of the present disclosure provide a mounting structure, a lower water outlet tank, and an air treatment device. The mounting structure is used for mounting a water outlet valve (3) to a water tank body (2) of a lower water outlet tank. The mounting structure includes a rotating connection member (1) on which the water outlet valve (3) is disposed and which includes a rotating operation portion (11) and a first cooperation portion (12) connected with each other. The mounting structure further includes a second cooperation portion (21) disposed on the water tank body (2), the rotating operation portion (11) is rotated by a predetermined angle, such that the first cooperation portion (12) and the second cooperation portion (21) is converted between a first state of separation and a second state of mutual occlusion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 25, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2024
    Assignee: GREE ELECTRIC APPLIANCES, INC. OF ZHUHAI
    Inventors: Zhongping Huang, Jianfei Hou, Jinbao Zhou, Hai Yang, Xianle Mo, Ruyi Ma, Tuchun Sun
  • Patent number: 11447304
    Abstract: A combination bucket lid and seat permits a user to access contents of the bucket while the user is seated. The lid has a lip for engaging the bucket, and an opening configured to receive a hand of a user for removing the bucket contents. The opening is selectively covered by a door that is attached to the lid. The door is movable between a closed position and an opened position. The door is configured to cover the opening of the lid in the closed position and uncover the opening of the lid in the open position. The main body has a pad that allows the user to be comfortable while sitting atop the combination bucket lid. More specifically, the door may be attached to the lid by a hinge, or rotatable about an axis of rotation, to selectively cover and uncover the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2021
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2022
    Assignee: BUCKET BROTHERS LLC
    Inventors: Ivan J. Wortman, Tyler Seymour, Mitchell W. Cox
  • Patent number: 11419324
    Abstract: A bait scoop allows an angler to retrieve live bait, hook the live bait while still in the bait scoop, and easily remove the hooked bait from the bait scoop. The bait scoop includes a scoop and a handle extending from a back of the scoop member. A plurality of front slots are formed in the scoop, where the slots are open at a top part of the scoop. The slots continuously extend from the top of the scoop, around the bottom, and partially up the back of the scoop to attached to a solid back portion thereof. Side slots are formed in sides of the scoop, where the side slots are open at the top of the scoop. Slotted cones are formed at a trench on a bottom interior of the scoop, where the slot in the scoop extends from the side slot to the interior of the scoop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2021
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2022
    Inventors: Douglas James Ritchie, Joshua David Ritchie
  • Patent number: 11375704
    Abstract: A bait container assembly for sifting worms from dirt includes a tube, which defines an interior space and which has opposed ends that are open. Each of a pair of lids is hingedly engaged to a respective opposed end of the tube. The lid is selectively engageable to the tube to close the respective opposed end. A grate engaged to the tube defines a pair of compartments within the interior space. The grate sifts worms from dirt positioned in one of the compartments upon inversion of the tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2022
    Inventors: David Kleinatland, Laura Brothers
  • Patent number: 11317617
    Abstract: A container for animals or objects in a liquid is disclosed. The container comprises a cylinder capped by two removable lids and a floating basket. When one of the lids is removed, the liquid may be drained and refreshed without either the basket or the contained animals or objects falling out. When the other lid is removed, the basket floats above the liquid and carries the animals or objects out of the liquid where they can be easily removed by a user. The container is useful to anglers who use live minnows as bait, but may be useful in several other applications. The instant abstract is neither intended to define the invention disclosed in this specification nor intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2022
    Assignee: PRODUCTIVE ALTERNATIVES, INC.
    Inventor: Bradley Walter Myers
  • Patent number: 11219201
    Abstract: A live bait pen having a porous housing having top end and a bottom end and an interior defined therein, a fence framework to contain live bait therein, a central axial member fixed centrally within the porous housing; a movable container surface disposed within the housing and mounted to a central collar, the collar extending upward from the movable container surface and slidably receiving the same wherein the container surface moves with the collar and limits travel of the container surface a sufficient predetermined distance to be maintained in a predetermined retention zone, a line extending into the pen a sufficient length to permit the movable container surface to extend to the bottom end, and an openable lid operably disposed on the top end of the side framework portion to provide easy insertion and removal of bait to and from the pen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2022
    Inventor: Theodore W. Beach
  • Patent number: 11140866
    Abstract: A feeding dish carrying assembly for carrying multiple feeding dishes for animals includes a basket for carrying objects. A handle is coupled to the basket for carrying the basket. A panel is coupled to the basket and the panel has a plurality of dish openings therein. Each of the dish openings can insertably receive a respective one of a plurality of feeding dishes for carrying the feeding dishes. A plurality of legs is each coupled to and extends downwardly from the panel. Each of the legs supports the panel and the basket above a support surface when the basket is placed on the support surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2021
    Inventor: Raymond Gabaldon
  • Patent number: 10980223
    Abstract: A bait bucket temporarily stores fishing bait and water within a water stable bucket component having a water-tight base and side walls and a top opening. A locking cap is removeably secured around the top opening in the bucket component and further includes a connector receiving a pivoting closing cap and a locking snap-in element that temporarily secures the pivoting closing cap to the locking cap. A handle pivotably attaches to the bucket component enabling lifting of the bait bucket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2021
    Inventor: Robert Leeper
  • Patent number: 10765099
    Abstract: A portable live well is configured to fit through a hole in ice above water. The portable live well includes a lid mechanically coupled to a body. The lid is joined to the body by pushing a large opening outer edge clip and a small opening outer edge clip on the lid into the rim on the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2020
    Inventor: Frank William Wilkins
  • Patent number: 10624328
    Abstract: A marine containment device is disclosed for containing a marine species. The marine containment device comprises a container defining an interior chamber. An aperture is in the container for inputting and outputting the marine species relative to the interior chamber. A closure door closes the aperture. A hinge pivotably couples the closure door with the container. A first flotation body is coupled to the first side wall and a second flotation body is coupled to the second side wall for providing a positive buoyancy while holding a portion of the body of water and marine species within the chamber when the container defines a horizontal position within the body of water. The rear end defines a linear plane for positioning on the surface and maintaining the container in a vertical position while holding a portion of the body of water and marine species within the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2020
    Inventor: Matthew Avery
  • Patent number: 10542737
    Abstract: A live bait pen includes a porous housing having fence framework including a side framework portion, a container surface disposed within the side of framework portion configured for ease of removal of bait within the pen, and an openable lid operably disposed on a top of said side framework portion to provide easy insertion of bait in said pen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2020
    Inventor: Theodore W Beach
  • Patent number: 10098335
    Abstract: A system for use with a container having a container lid. The system comprises a jacket further comprising insulated jacket sidewall surfaces shaped to surround one or more side surfaces of the container when the container is enclosed within the jacket, one or more attachment components affixed to an external surface of the one or more jacket sidewall surfaces, and a jacket lid for receiving therewithin the container lid, the jacket lid for affixing to the one more jacket sidewall surfaces to thereby close the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2018
    Assignee: Uncle JJ Enterprises, LLC
    Inventor: J. J. Cooper
  • Patent number: 9918460
    Abstract: A fishing bait holder includes an outer wall and a base defining a bait holding space having a bait opening for receiving bait to be held, the base comprising a porous base member configured to allow water to pass through the porous base member while not allowing the bait to pass through the porous base member. The fishing bait holder includes a bait lifter for fitting inside the bait holding space, the bait lifter configured to allow a user to lift the bait within the bait holding space, thereby facilitating the user's access to the bait.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Inventor: Jean-Robert Paquette
  • Patent number: 9814225
    Abstract: A container for animals or objects in a liquid is disclosed. The container comprises a cylinder capped by two removable lids and a floating basket. When one of the lids is removed, the liquid may be drained and refreshed without either the basket or the contained animals or objects falling out. When the other lid is removed, the basket floats above the liquid and carries the animals or objects out of the liquid where they can be easily removed by a user. The container is useful to anglers who use live minnows as bait, but may be useful in several other applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2017
    Inventor: Bradley Walter Myers
  • Patent number: 9516866
    Abstract: A marine containment device is disclosed for containing a marine species. The device includes a body having a first end and a second end. An entry is in the first end for defining an open position and a closed position. The open position is created by a spearing device with a marine species pushing against the entry and allowing the marine species into the body. The closed position is created by the spearing device removing the spearing device from the body and stripping the marine species off the spearing device. A displacement drain is in the second end for displacing the water within the body during the open position and minimizing displacement of the water through the entry. A travel distance is in the displacement drain for offsetting the exiting water from the body and prohibiting protrusion of the marine species from the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2016
    Inventor: Allie ElHage
  • Patent number: 9345238
    Abstract: A portable bait tank is provided with an exteriorly mounted aerator pump mounted within a protective cavity of the body of the tank. The bait tank also includes a molded in filter box plus a lid for housing a gravity filter and an aerator. An auxiliary, valve-operated pump-out port enables the pump to expel water from the bait container. The valve for the pump-out port is operated by moving the aerator head between a circulating position and a pump-out position. The bait tank also includes an access port that has splash-inhibiting lips that extend downwardly into the container formed by the tank body and a deep-seated oxygen bottle holder and accompanying orifice for the oxygen bottle tubing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2016
    Inventor: John S. Higginbotham
  • Patent number: 9314008
    Abstract: An ice fishing equipment storage and transport system or kit provides easier and more organized retention of ice fishing equipment when being stored, transported, or in use. System can include a container such as a bucket having an open interior. A sleeve can be selectively attachable to the bucket and include one or more rod holder tubes, the rod holder tubes having one or more channels or slots adapted to hold an ice fishing rod or tip-up. A bucket container extension portion can attach to the bucket to capture and retain the sleeve between the bucket and the extension. The system can also include a lid for covering the bucket. In some embodiments, the lid can include additional features such as a selectively attachable transducer guide channel and an opening allowing for passage of a battery cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2016
    Inventors: Brenda Lee DeSpiegelaere, Harley G. Hughes
  • Patent number: 9173382
    Abstract: A water changing and cleaning system and device for bowl, aquarium or pond kept pet fish is disclosed. You can pour the fish directly from a bowl into this invention, (capacity is unlimited due to flow through design). Device comprises a container within a container, the inner container features a gill port, running horizontally and flush with the bottom of the container, water flows through the inner container and rises in the space between the two containers, until it overflows from the provided outlet on the outer container, carrying unwanted matter with it. Using a source of clean water to flush through the device, once a satisfactory level of cleanliness is observed the inner container is removed and the fish is returned to its cleaned Bowl. The fish was never out of water during the process. Device can be used to capture fish, so no nets required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2015
    Inventor: John William McGlynn
  • Patent number: 9101123
    Abstract: A bait delivery system having a container for holding water and a lid releasably attached to the container. The lid includes a door opening and a door is pivotally connected to the lid. A rod extends through a rod opening in the lid and a loop assembly is connected to a lower end of the rod. A bait net is connected to the lid and has a lower portion connected to the loop assembly. The loop assembly has a first position adjacent the container bottom and a second position near the lid. The loop assembly is moved from the first position to the second position by raising the rod. In the first position the door is closed and in the second position the door is open. In a preferred embodiment, the door automatically opens as the loop assembly moves from the first to second position and automatically closes as the loop assembly moves from the second to first position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2015
    Inventors: Mark E. Schaefbauer, Tina Schaefbauer
  • Patent number: 9067725
    Abstract: A collapsible planter cover comprising a flexible sleeve and a planter support, the sleeve having an open top, a bottom, and a side wall, the sleeve having a coiled spring disposed around and within the side wall of the sleeve, wherein the coiled spring is configured to allow the sleeve to expand and contract vertically; and wherein the planter support is configured to be disposed within the sleeve at the bottom of the sleeve. A bottom of the support includes one or more feet sized to elevate the cover from a floor surface. In some embodiments, the sleeve and the support are substantially cylindrical in shape and the cover is adapted to receive a potted plant or planter to provide a covering therefore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2015
    Inventors: Kathleen Sellers, Andres F. Gutierrez
  • Patent number: 9067839
    Abstract: A vermicomposting device for vermicomposting organic material, comprises a casing including an annular hollow body member defining an internal cavity, a head member mounted to an upper end portion of the body member and a base member removably attached to a lower end portion of the body member, and a plurality of composting trays removably disposed within the internal cavity in a stacked relationship. Each of the composting trays is an open top tray including a circular perforated bottom wall surrounded by an annular side wall upwardly extending from the perforated bottom wall. The base member includes a support portion and a drip bucket disposed under the composting trays to receive and collect any liquid byproduct from the vermicomposting process. The head member is movable relative to the body member so as to provide an access to the internal cavity of the body member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2015
    Assignee: Frontier Paper & Packaging, Inc.
    Inventor: James Branham
  • Patent number: 8875436
    Abstract: A live bait container operable to store at least two different types of live bait wherein each of the two different types of live bait live in different media. Additionally, the live bait container is configured with a plurality of internal dividers operable to fluidly couple adjacent portions so as to accommodate incompatible live baits that are stored in the same media. The plurality of internal dividers include three layer having a plurality of apertures wherein one of the three layer is movable so as to align the plurality of apertures thus allowing the fluid coupling of two adjacent portions. A keeper is present to control the movement of the movable layer of the plurality of internal dividers. A top is present having a ring-shaped slot operable to receive a portion of the keeper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Inventor: Esco Bell
  • Patent number: 8832993
    Abstract: An illuminated aerator dip net system is submerged into a body of water within a container. The dip net assembly has a net with a rigid air tube and lid with a handle attached as one unit. An aerator is attached to the top of the lid. A flexible air tube is connected to an air valve, which is attached to the rigid air tube. The aerator pumps oxygen through the air valve and through the rigid air tube to an air stone that is attached to the bottom of the net thereby oxygenating the body of water within the container keeping the bait alive. The aerator provides an electrical source and switch for a light that is mounted to the bottom side of the aerator. A hole provided in the lid of the dip net assembly allows the light to illuminate live bait within the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Inventors: Todd O. Emmons, Sr., Teresa C. Emmons
  • Patent number: 8806803
    Abstract: A combination bait bucket and tackle box comprises a cylindrical container providing a means for dry storage of fishing supplies and also live bait. The bait container comprises a top portion of the device. The container further comprises a hinged access lid, a carrying handle, and a pair of slots adapted for securely receiving an aerator pump and a lantern. A bottom portion of the bait container lockably engages a top portion of the tackle box in order to allow the entire apparatus to be carried as unitary device. The tackle box comprises a round bottom portion of the apparatus which includes a plurality of drawers for storage of fishing supplies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Inventors: Michael S. Mitchell, Denny A. Blackhard
  • Patent number: 8615921
    Abstract: The thermally insulated vest for use with a modified bait storing bucket is an improvement over existing bait buckets in that it includes a thermally insulated vest that adorns an exterior surface of the bucket. The thermally insulated vest is comprised of a plurality of layers consisting of a plastic mesh, foil liner, insulation, and gel pack. At least two freezer packs adorn an exterior surface of the thermally insulated vest, and aid in cooling the contents of the bucket. The bucket includes a drain hole and plug to evacuate fluids from within. A lid having a lid vent rests atop the bucket, and is secured thereon via securing means. The thermally insulated vest has a height less than the height of the vest.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Inventor: Guy Weems
  • Patent number: 8607498
    Abstract: A fishing bait holding apparatus includes a container that has a bottom wall and a perimeter wall that is attached to and extends upwardly from the bottom wall. The perimeter wall has an upper edge defining an access opening into the container. A liner is removably positioned within the container. The liner has a lower wall and peripheral wall that is attached to and extends upwardly from the lower wall. The lower and peripheral walls each include an outer layer enclosing an interior space. A fluid is positioned within the interior space. The fluid may be chilled and the liner placed in the container to cool an area enclosed by the container. The container can be cooled with the liner such that fishing bait positioned in the container is cooled by the liner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Inventors: Dirk J. Smith, Shelly M. Smith
  • Patent number: 8572889
    Abstract: A bait bucket with aerating and cooling functions is particularly adapted for use with live bait and includes an inner bucket, an outer bucket, and an insulated tube. A bottom exterior of the inner bucket includes a water cooling system which provides a cooling and an oxygenating function to the quantity of water contained within the inner bait bucket. The outer bucket includes a fan and a vent which provide circulation and additional cooling to water cooling system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Inventors: John J. Hughes, John H. Brancheau, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20130042518
    Abstract: A portable live bait bucket with integral handle that has a floatable medium, a thumb grip, partially open top section with no lids, mechanisms or moving parts. The bait bucket is useable in any season and as a storage container to refrigerate unused bait. The container provides ease of mobility, storage, water changing and baits retrieval within a light compact synthetic resinous plastic unit. The bait water can be easily refreshed by sifting stale water through a plurality of holes in the upper chamber and then dipping fresh water from the water surface or submerging into an eight inch ice hole. Changing water is always a one-hand operation. The container is useable on the boat, shore, dock or ice house.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2011
    Publication date: February 21, 2013
    Inventor: Kyle Lee Olson
  • Patent number: 8002245
    Abstract: A liquid container aeration system for replenishing gases dissolved in a selected liquid present in an interior of said liquid container that checks on an electrical power source capability to continue operation and allows selected liquid substitution in the interior of the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Inventor: Jeffrey S. Sylvester
  • Patent number: 7958667
    Abstract: The bait well apparatus provides for hands-free carry of live bait within an ergonomically shaped apparatus. The concave inner surface fits against a user's hip or leg or even waist, depending upon the chosen wear location. A belt is provided that fits a user's waist or hips. A small optional belt is provided that fits a user's leg. The two clips disposed on the concave inner surface are selectively hooked over a given belt or other clothing item. The lid is hinged to open over the well within the body of the apparatus. The apparatus is provided in more than one size. One size, for example, holds 48 ounces of water. Another exemplary size holds up to 64 ounces of water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2011
    Inventor: Bryan D. Pallack
  • Patent number: 7827732
    Abstract: A fish catcher having a handle connected to a base wherein the base is tubular in shape having two ends. On a first end is a large opening less than the diameter of the tube. On the second or distal end is an opening smaller than the large opening. The body is made of an opaque rigid material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Inventor: Robert A. Pangrcic
  • Patent number: 7788843
    Abstract: A submergible container that includes a plurality of fluid passages formed through a container body to allow a chamber of the container to fill when submerged in water to form a live well is described. In embodiments described, the container is formed of an oval or egg shaped body to provide a streamline contour for towing through the water. In an illustrated embodiment, the container includes a wheel assembly and pull handle to transport the container over the ground. The illustrated container includes a closure that is operable between an open position and a closed position to insert items into the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2010
    Inventor: Bernard Anthony Boos, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7644535
    Abstract: A container for live bait is provided with a bait retrieval assembly of readily available structural components which are combined in an unexpectedly useful manner to allow all operations to be carried out using one hand only. The container, which is closed with a substantially rigid lid, may be of arbitrary cross-section but is preferably either cylindrical or tapered. The bait retrieval assembly includes an L-shaped frame comprising a pair of vertical members and a pair of horizontal members on which a bowl-shaped colander is supported. The vertical members are reciprocable through openings in the lid. The vertical members are required to be in mirror image relationship with one another, and laterally spaced-apart so that the distance between the longitudinal center lines of the members in the bottom portion of the L is less than the distance between longitudinal center lines of the members in the upper portion of the L.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2010
    Inventor: Stephen S. Sloop
  • Patent number: 7611130
    Abstract: A liquid container aeration system for replenishing gases dissolved in a selected liquid present in an interior of said liquid container that checks on an electrical power source capability to continue operation and allows selected liquid substitution in the interior of the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Inventor: Jeffrey S. Sylvester
  • Publication number: 20090223114
    Abstract: An apparatus for trapping live bait and storing the captured bait for later use. The bait trap is submerged in water and small bait creatures enter through a funnel-shaped entrance that gradually tapers to a small opening, which prevents escape once bait has entered the trap. Strategic placement of the small opening and drain holes allow the trap to be used as a storage bucket once bait is captured. Access and transportation are provided by a top-mounted door and carrying handle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 10, 2008
    Publication date: September 10, 2009
    Applicant: Spin Master Ltd.
    Inventors: Rob Obrien, Mark Ladislao, J. Todd Anderson
  • Publication number: 20090188152
    Abstract: Described is a live bait keeper system having a housing. The housing has a plurality of housing holes defined at its bottom. A pump is situated in the interior of the housing. A power cord is attached to the pump, traveling from the housing for connection to a shore or dock-located power supply. A hose has a proximal end and a distal discharge end. The proximal end is attached to the pump and the discharge end is adapted to be placed in a livewell of a boat. A lid is utilized for the housing and has defined thereon a plurality of lid holes. A rope is attached to the handle of the housing, wherein the housing with the pump and the lid can be lowered and maintained within a body of water for pumping the water into the livewell.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2009
    Publication date: July 30, 2009
    Inventor: Denis J. Davin
  • Patent number: 7549697
    Abstract: A fish receiving apparatus includes a housing that has a bottom wall and perimeter wall which is attached to and extends upwardly form the bottom wall. The perimeter wall has an upper edge defining an access opening into an interior space of the housing. The perimeter wall has a fill opening extending therethrough. A cover is removably positioned on the housing and covers the opening. The cover defines a platform for sitting on. A chute is attached to the peripheral wall and is in communication with the fill opening. The chute is angled downwardly toward the fill opening. Fish dropped into the chute fall into the interior space through the fill opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2009
    Inventors: John A. Long, Fred Rainey
  • Publication number: 20090064565
    Abstract: A container for live bait is provided with a bait retrieval assembly of readily available structural components which are combined in an unexpectedly useful manner to allow all operations to be carried out using one hand only. The container, which is closed with a substantially rigid lid, may be of arbitrary cross-section but is preferably either cylindrical or tapered. The bait retrieval assembly includes an L-shaped frame comprising a pair of vertical members and a pair of horizontal members on which a bowl-shaped colander is supported. The vertical members are reciprocable through openings in the lid. The vertical members are required to be in mirror image relationship with one another, and laterally spaced-apart so that the distance between the longitudinal center lines of the members in the bottom portion of the L is less than the distance between longitudinal center lines of the members in the upper portion of the L.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2007
    Publication date: March 12, 2009
    Inventor: Stephen S. Sloop
  • Patent number: 7464498
    Abstract: A fish cooler device 10 comprising an insulated fish cooler lid 20 that provides a means for ease of deposition of fish, a funnel shaped fish receiver 30 for dropping fish through an aperture 22 and a trap door 40 into a thermally insulated container 24. The fish cooler device 10 may also feature an ice chest or cooler with two lids, an upper lid 26 and the fish cooler lid 20; and a fish remover tray 90 that provides for the fish to be easily removed from the ice/ice water without having to handle a single fish, and a funnel shaped fish receiver 30.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2008
    Inventor: Daniel Galon Lester
  • Publication number: 20080250697
    Abstract: An improved bait bucket system for water and bait is provided in which bait can easily be emptied. The bucket includes a drainage door that has an open configuration and a closed configuration. When the drainage door is in its open configuration, water and bait inside the bucket system can be poured out through the drainage door without having to turn the bucket system fully upside down. When the drainage door is in its closed configuration, it preferably is substantially impermeable to passage of bait therethrough. The interior configuration of the bucket system can optionally provide a funneling effect that facilitates pouring bait and water from inside the bucket system out through the drainage door without such bait getting stuck behind any catch surface adjacent to the drainage door.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2007
    Publication date: October 16, 2008
    Inventor: Steven M. Wasnick
  • Patent number: 7434529
    Abstract: A sport or pleasure fishing boat having a closed live well for holding a selected volume of water and a live well ventilation vent unit mounted in a top wall overlying well. The live well vent unit is an open ended elongate sleeve that projects through the wall into the well. There is a partition dividing the interior of the sleeve into first and second separate vertical disposed air flow passages. Baffles extend from the upper end of the partition and overlying a portion of the respective passages exposed to atmosphere. The baffles slope upwardly and outwardly away from the partition and terminate in a free outer edge spaced a selected distance from the adjacently disposed end of the sleeve. The space between the baffle and sleeve defines a crescent shaped opening for the flow of air there through. The free outer edge of the baffle is spaced vertically from the upper end of the sleeve to catch and deflect a current of air into the well above the water therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2008
    Inventor: Judy L. Tipton
  • Publication number: 20080190011
    Abstract: A device for transportation of live baitfish is disclosed. The device comprises a container having an interior portion and a plurality of strain holes such that the container holds water when sitting in an upright position but which allows water exchange with the interior portion when placed in a body of water. A strainer is disposed in the interior portion of the container and connected to at least one elevator rail. A releasable handle is attached to the at least one elevator rail and disposed substantially outside the container. The handle provides a grip for lifting and carrying the container when the handle is in a first unreleased state, and serves to elevate the strainer by lifting the at least one elevator rail when in a second released state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2007
    Publication date: August 14, 2008
    Applicant: W.C. BRADLEY/ZEBCO HOLDINGS, INC
    Inventors: RYAN NEAL, MICAH JONES
  • Patent number: 7377071
    Abstract: An insulated minnow bucket with an attached ventilated lid. The bucket is fabricated from an outer shell and an inner shell that is placed within it, with both the outer shell and the inner shell preferably being cylindrical in nature. A lid that is ventilated with a number of holes is associated with the bucket. A handle is associated with the both of the shells and the lid and is inserted through a pair of holes located in the outer shell and inner shell to insure that the handle remains attached to the bucket. The handle also is inserted through a portion of the lid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2008
    Inventor: Roscoe Thompson
  • Patent number: 7299585
    Abstract: A bait container for storing bait in water incorporates a perforated carriage that slides vertically within a housing. Raising the carriage extracts the bait from the water and obviates the need to immerse a hand in cold water. A post extends upward from the carriage. A door can be moved in a vertical plane to cover an access opening. A rigid link is fixed to the door and extends inward to pass through a slot in the post. The slot locks the door, raises the door, and limits or prevents over-raising of the door. The post is free-sliding so as to cause the door to close unless held open, reducing the likelihood of bait egress. The door can be locked in a closed position using a rotatable latch arrangement to protect further against bait egress.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2007
    Inventor: Boyd Perttu
  • Patent number: 7249435
    Abstract: A device for holding a bucket of frozen chum is fabricated primarily out of flexible plastic material that is integrally formed with a toroidal sleeve there around. The toroidal sleeve has a plastic foam floatation element housed therein, so that a frozen bucket of chum that is installed and contained in a cylindrical component of the device is maintained at a right distance below the surface of a body of water in which the device has been deployed. A plurality of holes are provided in components of the device, so that chum matter can pass there through as the frozen chum melts and exits the device into the surrounding body of water to attract fish. The device is also provided with a drawstring that cooperates with an upper edge of the cylindrical containing component to captivate the frozen bucket of chum therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Inventor: John L. Tetenes
  • Patent number: 6990765
    Abstract: A collapsible live bait container constructed of a vinyl coated fabric mesh. The mesh is sewn over one or more flexibly resilient stays. A foam flotation member or buoyant stays can be secured to the enclosure walls. Resealing access ports are defined with strips of hook and loop fasteners, zippers or a fabric sleeve and drawstring. Several storage compartments can be provided with permanent or detachable walls or pockets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2006
    Inventor: Joseph Beech
  • Patent number: 6886291
    Abstract: A minnow bucket that includes a bucket base and an automatic dispensing device positioned inside the bucket base that when raised on a vertical axis in relation to the bucket base dispenses at least one minnow. The minnow bucket may also include a lid that is connected with the bucket base. The automatic dispensing device may comprise a minnow tray that is connected with a minnow tray handle. The handle is used by an angler to cause the automatic dispensing device to dispense minnows.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Inventor: Houston Jaggers
  • Patent number: 6857222
    Abstract: A fishing bait apparatus for providing a hands-free method of separating minnows according to size. The fishing bait apparatus includes a container having side, upper and lower walls, and also having an open top; and also includes a lid assembly including a lid member being hingedly attached to the container and also including lid support members for supporting the lid member in an open position; and further includes a handle assembly including a handle being pivotally attached to the container; and also includes bait storage members being disposed in the container and upon the upper wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2005
    Inventor: Jason L. King
  • Patent number: 6820364
    Abstract: A lighted bait container apparatus includes a container defining an open top capable of receiving and holding fishing bait. The container includes a rim body extending about the open top with a pivotal lid and a clamp member coupled thereto. A latch assembly and springs cooperate so that a user may open and close the lid with one hand. The lighted bait container apparatus includes a flashlight having first and second ends and defining an interior space. A first light is positioned at the first end and a second light is positioned at the second end. The flashlight has switches for independently energizing the lights. The clamp member is configured to releasably hold the flashlight. Therefore, the first light enables a user to view the open top and lid while catching or manipulating fish bait at night while the second light provides greater illumination of a ground surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2004
    Inventor: Jeremy D. Tyson