March 2012
Drake’s Sea-Bat
Harry F. Drake
Milwaukee, WI
1932
This month’s “Lure Of The Month” was selected as response to a question from a visitor to this website:
“I have a question that I hope you can answer. Who invented the “rattle lure”, which is a lure that has a BB or tiny ball bearing in it to make it rattle? I am sure it is not that old as it would have to be a hollow plastic lure, but I am just curious.”
Actually, would you believe that this invention was patented 80-years-ago in 1932? And, it was not a plastic lure, but a wooden lure that had a hollow metal tube that contained a ball bearing to make it rattle.
And, what perfect timing as the NW Sportshow is celebrating their 80th year this year! This will be one of the lures featured in my "80 years ago" display. And, it is nice to know this lure invention come from the neighboring state of Wisconsin.
As the plain-looking box of the Sea-Bat states, this lure has a lot of things going for it. Not only does it rattle due to the bear bearing, but it also has two adjustable fins for shallow or deep fishing. Loosen the brass screw near the fin, and the angle of the fin can be adjusted. A sharp angle, and the lure will dive deep. If the fin is adjusted in line with the body, the lure would dive just under the surface of the water. Also, the hollow metal tube that holds the ball bearing created a “trail of bubbles” when pulled through the water.
The box also states “Alluring Baits Are Always Drake’s”. Funny, for I believe this is the only lure that was manufactured by him. Also, it was only available in one color…red and white.
So, not only was this the first “rattle lure”, it also had adjustable fins, a side to side wobble, and a hollow tube that created trail bubbles. Indeed, Harry Drake did manufacture a lure that was very creative and would appeal to a lot of fisherman…even today.
