Shakespeare Lures has a long history in the fishing tackle industry. William Shakespeare Jr., a passionate fisherman and businessman, founded the company in Kalamazoo, Michigan, in 1897.

Shakespeare began making fishing lures from his home, but his products quickly became known for their high-quality construction and effectiveness in catching game fish like bass and pike. This resulted in the formation of the Shakespeare Company, which went on to become a leading manufacturer of fishing tackle and other outdoor gear.

Shakespeare Lures has continued to innovate and expand its product line over the years, introducing new lures such as the Swimming Mouse, Revolution, and Pflueger Jointed Shyster. These lures were well-known for their realistic designs, high-quality construction, and ability to catch a variety of game fish.

Shakespeare Lures were also important in the development of the sport of fishing. The company sponsored a series of fishing tournaments and exhibitions in the early 1900s, which helped popularise the sport and demonstrated the effectiveness of Shakespeare lures.

Shakespeare Lures is now recognised in the fishing tackle industry as a historic and iconic brand. Its lures are prized by collectors and fishermen alike, and the company’s legacy of innovation and quality continues to inspire the next generation of fishing tackle manufacturers. The ownership of the company has changed several times over the years, but its dedication to quality and innovation remains as strong as ever.