We have a thread here for old-time LI fishermen and stories, people:
http://stripersandanglers.com/Forum/...ead.php?t=5237

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

They brought us things like the baittail jig, different types of tins, and many others.

What could have been the toughest test of their gear was to bring it to Montauk, fish the hell out of it, and see if fishermen liked it.

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

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

However, LI 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.

It's been said about businesses in NY, if you can make it there, you can make it anywhere.

I think the same holds true for LI tackle and lure makers and manufacturers. Succeed, or die a quick death.