December 2014
Schaller's Three-Bagger Lure
E.W. Schaller
Mendota, IL
Early 1930s
This huge “wood block” of a lure could really catch the fish…just ask the maker.
Measuring at about 3 ½ inches long and about 1 ½ inches high (not counting the hooks), this heavy lure was advertised to be the perfect lure for casting or trolling. You could catch all game fish on it including bass, pike, pickerel, muskies, and whatever.
The ads from the 1930s sum it best:
“Featuring what you’ve always wanted: surface, sub-surface and deep-running action without adjusting the lure. Detachable interlocking hooks -- no screws to pull out or break. Snap swivel for attaching pork (use of pork optional). A weedless single hooker that’s “A Honey”.”
And, the ad typically closed with a statement that displayed the uniqueness of his lure:
“Show ‘em something they haven’t “got used to”.”
I am not sure how this lure sold. Coming out right when the depression started and selling for a whopping $1.50 could not have helped. Just to compare, $1.50 in the early 1930s is equal to about $26.00 in 2014.
Due to its size and weight, I would assume this lure cast much easily than smaller lures using the old fashioned rods and reels. However, you would have to catch a lot of fish to make up the cost of the lure. “Three-Bagger” is an interesting name, but I am not sure what (if anything) it implies. This lure came in a variety of colors and was either two toned (like the one pictured) or one solid color.
The example of this lure I own is in great shape. The paint looks brand new and shines and the box is crisp and solid. I doubt this lure was ever used even though it is over 80 years old. Although I would like to see how it works in the water, I doubt I will ever cast this one in the lake. For now, the lure is retired, even after probably not working a day in its life….
