Carlos, Carl, and Clinton Smith, three brothers, formed the Paw Paw Bait Company in Paw Paw, Michigan, in the first decade of the 20th century. Before renaming itself Paw Paw Bait Company in 1916, the business produced fishing lures under the name Smith Brothers Tackle Company.

The Paw Paw Bait Company earned a reputation for creating premium fishing lures that were successful in luring in game fish like bass and pike. The company’s lures immediately developed a reputation among fishing aficionados for their cutting-edge designs and premium manufacturing.

Paw Paw Bait Company introduced new lures like the Wotta Frog and the Flapjack as it grew its product line over time. These lures were renowned for their distinctive styles and characteristics, such as the lifelike appearance of the Wotta Frog and the spinning blade of the Flapjack.

The growth of fishing as a sport was significantly aided by Paw Paw Bait Company. The business supported a number of fishing competitions and exhibitions to promote the activity and show off the potency of their lures.

Paw Paw lures are now in high demand among collectors and fishing aficionados. Although the company went out of business in the 1960s, its legacy of quality and invention continues to motivate the producers of fishing tackle today. Paw Paw lures continue to play a significant role in the development of fishing tackle and are a priceless part of the sport’s past.