The Paw Paw Bass Seeker was first produced in the late 1920's Available in both glass and painted eyes. It came in two sizes #2600 (4") and 4600 (3 1/4"). Two treble hooks. An early catalog...
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.
Paw Paw Platypus
The Paw Paw Platypus was a short lived addition to the Paw Paw lure lineup. Likely produced during the 40's (1941 seems to be a common start date) and 50's by 1960 this lure was not available...
Paw Paw Popper
The Paw Paw Popper was first manufactured in the very early 1930's. (Catalog # 2200) Weighing in at 3/4 of an ounce and measuring 2 7/8 to 3" in Length. By 1950 the were not available anymore. ...
Paw Paw Plunker
The Paw Paw Plunker was introduced in the late 1920's is a smaller version of the Paw Paw Popper. and was approximately 2" Long. There seems to be several varieties of this lure. Value is $15-$50...
Paw Paw Little Shiner Torpedo
The Paw Paw Little Shiner Torpedo first began production in 1942. (Model 8400) Depending on Condition these lures fetch from $15 to $50. Body weight is 3/8 of an ounce and the lure is 2 3/4 inches...
Paw Paw Bullhead
The Paw Paw Bullhead (3500 Series) was first distributed in 1929. It has a a 4 1/4" body and was discontinued by the late 1930's. These are fairly rare lures, especially hard to find in really...