For many anglers, fishing isn’t just a pastime—it’s a connection to cherished memories and stories of success on the water. Over the years, we accumulate a tackle box full of lures, each with its own tale. But there’s always that one lure—the tried-and-true, the one that seems to bring in fish when nothing else does. For me, that lure is my trusty old "red Eye Wiggler".
A Little History
The Red Eye Wiggler is one of the most iconic and enduring lures in fishing history. Its unique design and proven effectiveness have made it a must-have tool for anglers worldwide.
The Red Eye Wiggler was born in the 1950s, a product of the creativity of Bill Norman, a self-taught inventor and expert fisherman. Bill Norman had a vision to create a lure that mimicked the swimming motion of an injured baitfish, something that could lure predatory fish like bass, pike, and walleye. By studying the movement of injured fish, he realized that a lure that wobbled back and forth would be irresistible to many game fish.
I actually found this lure on a tree branch while fishing on the Delaware River, New Jersey with my dad when I was 10 years old. I caught many types of fish on this lure throughout the years. Surprisingly, I still have this lure but I choose to keep it in my original tackle box to pass it down. You can still buy them either used or copies from other manufacturers. I have several in different sizes. Amazon has them here: https://amzn.to/3W64Kqy
Why It Still Works
There’s something magical about the Red Eye Wiggler. Maybe it’s the unique shape, the way it swims through the water. Whatever it is, fish just seem to love it. It mimics the action of an injured baitfish perfectly, creating an irresistible target for predatory species like bass, pike, and especially stripers. I rarely see any fishermen using it these days which makes it a great go-to when the fish aren't biting.
Conclusion
The history of the Red Eye Wiggler is a testament to the innovation and passion behind the world of fishing. Bill Norman's creation revolutionized the way anglers approached fishing and led to the development of a beloved tool that continues to deliver results to this day. Whether you're a novice angler or an experienced fisherman, there's no denying that the Red Eye Wiggler has earned its place in the annals of fishing history.
More on Bill Norman
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