We have a thread here for old-time NJ fishermen and stories, people.

http://stripersandanglers.com/Forum/...ead.php?t=5236

From conversations with them I realize there were a lot of innovative lure and tackle makers that grew up and prospered in Rhose Island.

They brought us things like different types of tins, tackle, some lures, and many others.

The most important issue?
How did it swim in the water?
Did it catch?

Early in the history of Rhode Island fishing, when fishermen made the transition from bait to jigs, bucktails, and other new inventions of the 1900s, some NJ fishing tackle innovators were at the top of their game.

However, RI fishermen are a tough breed. If your new fishing idea or presentation you wanted to sell didn't work, fishermen would ignore you. You failed miserably.