AU2015243436B2

AU2015243436B2 - Modular chambered leader fishing lure

Info

Publication number: AU2015243436B2
Application number: AU2015243436A
Authority: AU
Inventors: David Justice; Christopher Walsh
Original assignee: Justice Tackle and Co LLC
Current assignee: Justice Tackle and Co LLC
Priority date: 2014-04-10
Filing date: 2015-04-09
Publication date: 2018-08-09
Anticipated expiration: 2035-04-09
Also published as: AU2015243436A1; WO2015157558A3; JP2017513471A; WO2015157558A2

Abstract

A modular chambered fishing lure (10) having an internal spool (84) for providing compact storage for an extendable leader (34); weighted elements (46) removably attached along various portions of the lure body (12) for providing a desired motion, orientation, and depth in the water; and a plurality of interchangeable tail components (650) to provide a variety of different lure types.

Description

MODULAR CHAMBERED LEADER FISHING LURE FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to fishing devices, and more particularly to a modular chambered fishing lure having compact storage for an extendable wire leader wrapped on an internal spool, detachable weights, and a plurality of interchangeable tail components. A hook is attached securely to the lure by means of the wire leader in a manner that allows for controlled release of the hook and the leader. The detachable weights are secured to modular slot openings on the lure body. Any one of the interchangeable tail components may be removably secured to the head portion of the lure.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Fishermen are interested in attracting and catching fish with the greatest efficiency possible. A wide variety of fishing lures have been designed to catch particular species of fish in their natural habitat. In addition, the type of fish sought and its natural habitat will offer factors such as weather conditions, time of day, tides, and water temperature, which may determine which particular lure will be most effective to catch the fish sought at a particular time and location. For this reason, most fishermen have a relatively large collection of lures which are used in various fishing endeavors, thereby increasing one’s chance for a successful fishing trip.

Such lures are generally integral units, each having its own hooks, leader attachments, etc. The result of maintaining a collection of varied and readied lures during a fishing trip is most often a relatively crowded and tangled tackle box, with many of the lures seldom used or possibly not used at all during any given fishing outing.

It is known in the fishing industry that fish of various species are attracted to different colors, as well as action and style of fishing lures on any given day. This attraction can actually change with the time of the day; for instance, on an hourly basis. It is imperative that the angler adapt the fishing lure to the situation if he/she wishes to catch fish consistently. This generally requires the lure to be detached from the fishing line, and the newly selected lure to be tied to the fishing line. This task can be annoying, difficult, and time consuming whether in a boat or on shore casting into the water. The fisherman must seek out the proper lure in a crowded tackle box; and, if the case, maintain a steady hand on a wavering vessel in order to tie or thread the fishing line through the eye opening on the lure. Timing is also a factor because fish do not maintain a particular position for very long. Fisherman may frequently maintain a sizable collection of different shaped, styled, and colored lures representing a considerable investment in a wide range of tackle equipment. Maintaining a large collection of lures, with many already having a hook attached thereto, presents a storage problem to the fisherman. If the lures are stored apart from one another, it takes up valuable space in a tackle box or confined space in a fishing vessel. Additionally, if lures are stored together, the multitude of hooks leads to frequent entanglement which takes up valuable time to retrieve and untangle the one lure chosen. Thus, a need exists for a fishing lure with a single head portion and interchangeable tail portions so it may be transformed into a variety of different lure types in order to alleviate the issues discussed above.

For instance, U.S. Patent No. 2,958,152 discloses a lure having a frame to which hooks and a leader attachment eye are secured, with different lure bodies being interchangeably attached to the frame. The lure bodies are formed of a hard and rigid material in order to provide the required grip to each side of the frame portion, but ‘8152 does not disclose a removable tail portion which is interchangeably attached to the main body portion of the lure. U.S. Patent No. 5,301,453 discloses a fishing lure, including a rigid body and interchangeable body sleeves telescopically attached to the rigid body, whereby a variety of bait configurations can be used on the same lure in accordance with a particular fishing condition. The disadvantage associated therewith is that in rough current or debris the sleeve can become dislodged from the rigid body as only a frictional relationship is used to maintain the sleeve tail portion in contact with the rigid body.

Weights have been used in conjunction with fishing lures in order to vary their movement in the water and to determine the depth at which the lure travels. The weights create a sensory enticement to fish because fish are often times attracted to movement, such as the movement of live bait fish in water. Accordingly, fishing lures have been designed to move in water in a manner similar to the way a bait fish would naturally move. To obtain such movement through the water, lures are designed and manufactured with various weighted regions within or at a singular predetermined weight that cannot be changed. These weighted fishing lures at times impart unnatural movement characteristics during use because of tides, currents, or tension in the line. Additionally, if the proper depth or movement is not achieved by the fishing lure, this generally requires it to be detached from the fishing line, and a replacement selected and attached to the fishing line. This task can be annoying, difficult, and time consuming as discussed above. For instance, U.S. Publication No. 20100175305 discloses a fishing lure having a body constructed of at least two different materials. Its design calls for one of the materials to have a density at least two times greater than the other material in order to achieve a desired motion or orientation in the water. Disadvantages associated therewith include having a preset weight for the lure that limits or prohibits changing of its motion, orientation, and depth in the water. Thus, the need exists for a fishing lure with adaptable weights to enable the lure to achieve the desired motion, orientation, and depth in the water.

The broad concept of a fishing lure having a releasable hook is known in the art. For example, U.S. Patent No. 5,090,151 describes a fishing lure in which the hook and body separate when a strike occurs. The fishing lure comprises of a lure body, a hook, and a wire member. The body has a slot extending therethrough with a shoulder located along the slot. The hook includes an elongated shank with a projection therein which normally engages the shoulder on the lure body, so the hook remains engaged with the lure body. The wire member extends therethrough the lure body and is attached on one end to a hook eyelet and to the fishing reel on the opposite end. The hook is housed in the slot with the re-bent bight portion extending outside the lure body. The lure body shoulder is releasably engaged with the shank and projection of the hook, where upon a strike, the body and hook separate with the lure body sliding up the wire member. U.S. Patent No. 5,806,233 describes a fishing lure which exhibits a relative lost motion between the body of the lure and the hook upon a fish strike. The fishing lure comprises of a lure body, a limb, an elastomeric band, a fishing line, and a hook. The lure body has a leading end and a trailing end. The limb, having an eye formed on one end thereof, is coupled to the trailing end of the lure body. The eye on the limb is outwardly extending from the trailing end of the lure body. The hook includes a shank with an eyelet formed thereon. The hook is tethered to the limb using a length of fishing line fastened at the hook’s eyelet at one end and the limb’s eye at the opposite end thereof. An elastomeric band confiningly surrounds and releasably holds the hook, limb, and fishing line in a juxtaposed position rearwardly remote from the trailing end of the lure body. Upon a fish strike at the hook, the hook and fishing line move out from the band and the hook proceeds in the opposite direction to travel with the fish. U.S. Patent No. 6,105,303 discloses a fishing lure that does not have an exposed hook until sufficient tension is placed on the line. The lure comprises of a lure body, a fishing line, and a hook. The body has an aperture therethrough and at least one channel. The fishing line extends through the aperture and is attached to the shank of the hook. The hook is placed into a channel, changing the direction the fishing line runs in the aperture, so that the fishing line in the channel runs in the opposite direction of that in the aperture. Using this configuration, the hook will be dislodged from the body if sufficient tension is placed on the fishing line. U.S. Patent No. 6,164,006 discloses a fishing lure having a forward body portion and an interchangeable tail portion. The tail portion is removably secured to the body portion. The disadvantages associated therewith are that the lure does not allow for variation in action needed to achieve the desired motion, orientation, and depth in the water achieved with interchangeable weight, nor does it include an interior chamber in its forward head portion for housing a spool upon which an extended leader assembly can be arranged.

Accordingly, the need exists for a modular chambered fishing lure having an internal spool for providing compact storage for an extendable leader, detachable weights, and a plurality of interchangeable tail portions to overcome the limitations of the prior art.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a modular chambered fishing lure having an internal spool for providing compact storage for an extendable leader, weighted elements removably attached along various portions of the lure body for providing a desired motion, orientation, and depth in the water, and a plurality of interchangeable tail components to provide a variety of different lure types. The modular chambered fishing lure includes a head portion having a front end, a back end, a top side, a bottom side, an interior chamber, and a plurality of tail portions having a front end, a back end, a top side, and a bottom side. Within the interior chamber of the head portion is a spool constructed and arranged to provide storage for an extended leader assembly. A hook is secured to the distal end of the leader assembly and releasably engaged with the back end portion of the lure in a non-deployed state. The spool assembly is constructed and arranged to provide the user the ability to retract the leader line coupled to the hook back into the internal chamber of the device, wherein the hook is reset within the lure body for the next strike. The back end of the head portion may include a U-shaped channel extending along the top side of the head and along each side surface. The U-channel is constructed and arranged to receive a weighted element within to vary the weight on the head portion of the lure. Additionally, disposed along the bottom side of the head portion, a belly groove is constructed and arranged to receive a weighted element within. The back end of the head portion further includes a rounded key-hole slot. The key-hole slot is constructed and arranged to cooperate with a plurality of tail portions having a corresponding key-hole. The tail portions come in a variety of colors, sizes, shapes, and the like.

According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided a reloadable leader assembly for a fishing lure comprising: a fishing lure body portion including a hollow cavity therein, said cavity sized to accept a reloadable leader assembly with a hook member extending outside said fishing lure body portion, said fishing lure body portion including a main portion and an interchangeable portion, said main portion and said second portion shaped combining to resemble an animal that fish prey upon; said reloadable leader assembly including a pair of support arms spaced apart and extending in a substantially parallel arrangement with respect to each other and connected with a connecting member to maintain their substantially parallel arrangement, each of said support arms including an aperture extending at least partially through each said support arm, said apertures substantially aligned to define an axis of rotation for a rotatable member, said rotatable member containing a cylindrical shaped drum body, said drum body including a pivoting member, said pivoting member extending outwardly from the distal ends of said drum body sufficiently to fit into said aperture in said support arms to allow said drum body to rotate about said axis of rotation, a leader line having a first end, a middle portion and a second end, said first end of said leader line secured to said drum body, said middle portion wrapped around said drum body and said second end secured to said hook member, an eyelet hook secured to at least one of said pair of support arms for attachment to a fishing line, said reloadable leader assembly sized to fit within the hollow cavity in said body portion of said fishing lure to provide a releasable hook and leader assembly thereto; whereby said hook and said leader line are extended away from said fishing lure body upon a fish strike to said fishing lure while the distance between said eyelet hook and said drum body remain substantially constant.

Accordingly, the instant invention seeks to provide a chambered fishing lure having a releasable hook.

The instant invention also seeks to provide a modular chambered fishing lure providing a simple method of changing the lure style, action, and/or color without having to detach the existing lure from the fishing line and retie a new lure style, action, and/or color to the fishing line.

The instant invention also seeks to provide a modular chambered fishing lure having a releasable hook, in which a portion of the hook is housed within an internal chamber.

The instant invention also seeks to provide a modular chambered fishing lure which maintains a more natural appearance.

The instant invention also seeks to provide a modular chambered fishing lure having a releasable hook which maintains a low visibility.

The instant invention also seeks to provide a modular chambered fishing lure having a releasable hook which maintains a better lure action.

The instant invention also seeks to provide a modular chambered fishing lure having a releasable hook which traverses between a non-deployed state and a deployed state.

The instant invention also seeks to provide a modular chambered fishing lure in which fish can be cleanly hooked once the leader is released and deployed.

The instant invention also seeks to provide a modular chambered fishing lure having a releasable hook in which the fish cannot shake the lure from its mouth.

The instant invention also seeks to provide a modular chambered fishing lure having a releasable hook in which the leader line is concealed within an internal chamber and is attached to a reloadable leader assembly.

The instant invention also seeks to provide a modular chambered fishing lure having a releasable hook which can be easily reloaded to the non-deployed state.

The instant invention also seeks to provide a modular chambered fishing lure having an internal reel assembly for storing the leader line.

The instant invention also seeks to provide a modular chambered fishing lure having an internal reel assembly that includes an externally operable mechanism for rewinding the leader line about the spool.

The instant invention also seeks to provide a modular chambered fishing lure having an internal reel assembly including a clutch assembly that provides resistance to pulling the leader line from the spool.

The instant invention also seeks to provide a modular chambered fishing lure having an internal reel assembly including a recoil spring assembly for providing a predetermined amount of resistance to pulling the leader line from the spool.

The instant invention also seeks to provide a modular chambered fishing lure having an internal reel assembly which may include a recoil spring assembly for retracting the leader line.

The instant invention also seeks to provide a modular chambered fishing lure having a tail portion removably secured to the head portion.

The instant invention also seeks to provide a modular chambered fishing lure having a tail portion removably secured to the head portion which allows fishermen to remove the tail portion of the lure without the use of tools and without incurring damage to the lure components.

The instant invention also seeks to provide a modular chambered fishing lure that allows fishermen to exchange the tail portion of the lure as desired, to attract different types of fish under different conditions.

The instant invention also seeks to provide a modular chambered fishing lure that eliminates the need for attaching and detaching lures from a line when a lure change is desired.

The instant invention also seeks to provide a modular chambered fishing lure having tail portions in a variety of configurations, sizes, and colors; and when used in combination with the head portion, create a different lure configuration without undergoing the tedious process of attaching and detaching a variety of different lures.

The instant invention also seeks to provide a modular chambered fishing lure having a plurality of lure bodies that can be stored in various compact spaces without entanglement of hooks or fear of unintentional hooking of other lures and materials.

The instant invention also seeks to provide a modular chambered fishing lure in which a weighted element can be attached to varying regions along the head portion to provide life-like movement as the lure is pulled through the water.

The instant invention also seeks to provide a modular chambered fishing lure which facilitates changing of one weight or mass to another weight or mass.

The instant invention also seeks to provide a modular chambered fishing lure in which weight can readily be changed as circumstances dictate.

The instant invention also seeks to provide a modular chambered fishing lure having tail portions that may be impregnated with fish attracting scent and or taste substances.

The instant invention also seeks to provide a modular chambered fishing lure which may include an insertable bill on the front side of the head portion. The bill produces turbulence in the water as the lure is drawn along the surface of the water, thereby possibly attracting fish.

Other features and advantages of this invention will become apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with any accompanying drawings wherein are set forth, by way of illustration and example, certain embodiments of this invention. Any drawings contained herein constitute a part of this specification and include exemplary embodiments of the present invention and illustrate various objects and features thereof.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

Figure 1 is a side view of one embodiment of the fishing lure of the present invention having a releasable hook in the non-deployed position;

Figure 2 is a side view of one embodiment of the fishing lure of the present invention having a releasable hook and leader in the deployed position;

Figure 3 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the reloadable leader assembly chamber of the present invention;

Figure 4 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the reloadable leader assembly of the fishing lure having a releasable hook, illustrated with the reloadable leader assembly within the internal chamber;

Figure 5 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the reloadable leader assembly of the present invention;

Figure 6A is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the reloadable leader assembly of the present invention;

Figure 6B is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the reloadable leader assembly illustrated with a tool for providing rotation to the spool;

Figure 7 is a top view of the fishing lure having a releasable hook illustrated in Figure 2;

Figure 8 is a side elevational view of the fishing lure having a releasable hook attached to a main fishing line, illustrated with the releasable leader in a deployed position;

Figure 9 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the fishing lure of the present invention having a releasable hook in the non-deployed position;

Figure 10 illustrates the embodiment of the fishing lure shown in Figure 9, illustrated having the releasable hook in the deployed position;

Figure 11 is a longitudinal cross-section of the fishing lure shown in Figures 9 and 10, illustrated with the releasable leader assembly removed;

Figure 12 is a longitudinal cross-section of the fishing lure shown in Figures 9 and 10, illustrated with one embodiment of the releasable leader assembly in place;

Figure 13 A is a top view of the fishing lure having a releasable hook as illustrated in Figures 9-12;

Figure 13B is a partial rear view of the fishing lure illustrated in Fig. 13 A;

Figure 14 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the present invention having a rewind key slot positioned at the bottom portion of the fishing lure;

Figure 15 is an alternative embodiment of the present invention illustrated as a diving style lure with a bottom mounted rewinding thumb screw;

Figure 16 illustrates one embodiment of the present invention in the form of a trolling lure with a releasable hook;

Figure 17 illustrates the trolling lure with releasable hook of Figure 16 with a skirt;

Figure 18 is a longitudinally sectioned side view of an alternative embodiment of the fishing lure of the present invention having a releasable hook, illustrated in the non-deployed state;

Figure 19 is a longitudinally sectioned side view of the embodiment of Figure 18, illustrated with the leader assembly in the deployed state;

Figure 20A is a side view partially in section of one form of the embodiment of Figure 18 illustrated in the form of a jig;

Figure 20B is a side view partially in section of the embodiment of Figure 20A illustrated with the leader in a deployed state;

Figure 21A is a side view partially in section illustrating the embodiment of Figure 20A having a shrimp tail attachment;

Figure 21B is a side elevational view of the embodiment of Figure 21 A, illustrated with the leader assembly in the non-deployed state;

Figure 21C is a side elevational view of the embodiment of Figure 21 A, illustrated with the leader assembly in the deployed state;

Figure 22A is a side view partially in section illustrating the jig of Figure 20A with a skirt type attachment;

Figure 22B is a side view of the embodiment shown in Figure 22A, illustrated with the leader assembly in a deployed position;

Figure 23 is a top perspective view of one embodiment of the reloadable leader assembly in accordance with the present invention;

Figure 24 is a bottom perspective view of the reloadable leader assembly illustrated in Figure 23;

Figure 25 is a side elevational view of the reloadable leader assembly illustrated in Figure 23;

Figure 26 is a top view of the reloadable leader assembly illustrated in Figure 23;

Figure 27 is a perspective view of the support structure of the reloadable leader assembly illustrated in Figure 23;

Figure 28A is a perspective view of the spool assembly of the reloadable leader assembly illustrated in Figure 23;

Figure 28B is a perspective view of the spool assembly of the reloadable leader assembly illustrated in Figure 23 without the rotational member;

Figure 28C is a perspective view of the rotational member of the spool assembly illustrated in Figure 23;

Figure 29 is a cross-sectional view of the reloadable leader assembly illustrated in Figure 23 positioned within the reloadable leader assembly chamber of the chambered fishing lure having a releasable hook as illustrated in Figure 1;

Figure 30 is a side view partially in cross section illustrating an alternative embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 31 is a side view partially in cross section illustrating an alternative embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 32 is a side view of an alternative embodiment of the lure of Figure 30, illustrated with an interchangeable tail portion and diving blade;

Figure 33 is a cross-sectional side view of an alternative embodiment of the lure of Figure 30, illustrated with the reloadable leader assembly removed;

Figure 34 is a top view of the head portion of an alternative embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 35 is a bottom view of the head portion of an alternative embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 36 is a side view of one embodiment of an interchangeable tail portion suitable for use with the present invention; and

Figure 37 is a side view of the head portion of the embodiment illustrated in Figure 33.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

While the present invention is susceptible of embodiment in various forms, there is shown in the drawings and will hereinafter be described a presently preferred, albeit not limiting, embodiment with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered an exemplification of the present invention and is not intended to limit the invention to the specific embodiments illustrated.

Referring generally to Figures 1-31 in which similar reference characters denote similar elements throughout the several views, a chambered fishing lure 10 having a releasable leader 34 and hook 22 is illustrated. Referring to Figure 1, a side view of one embodiment of the chambered fishing lure 10 having a releasable hook 22 is illustrated as a swim bait style fishing lure having an eyelet for attachment of a line which is operated by the fisherman to deploy and retrieve the chambered fishing line. The chambered fishing lure 10 includes a body 12 having a front portion 14, a back portion 16, a top portion 18, and a bottom portion 20. The body 12 may be made of any material(s) commonly used in the manufacturing of fishing lures, but is preferably made of a polymeric material such as plastic. The body 12 may contain markings, colorations, or be shaped to resemble baitfish, mice, crayfish, insects, frogs, or other animals and/or objects that fish prey upon. Attached to the chambered fishing lure 10 is a releasable hook 22. As illustrated, the hook is arranged in the “non-deployed” position in which little or no leader line is exposed. This is the typical starting position when the fisherman places the lure into the water.

Referring to Figure 2, a side elevational view of the chambered fishing lure 10 having a releasable hook 22 (not on Fig. 2) is illustrated in the deployed position. In the deployed position, the leader 34 is extended so that the hook 22 is positioned at a predetermined distance away from the body 12 and thus the eyelet 68 (Figure 4). The deployed position typically results from a fish strike in which the fish actually bites at and contacts the lure. In this situation, the fish may realize that it has bitten something that it does not want to eat so that the lure is released but the hook is retained in its mouth. The hook is preferably a standard fishhook, having a hook eyelet 24, a shank 26, a bight portion 28, and a pointed terminal end 30 with or without a barb 32. The hook 22 may be coated with a protective coating to prolong the useful life of the hook by providing protection from the adverse effects of the environment, such as rusting, corroding, or other weathering. Coupling the hook 22 to the body 12 of the chambered fishing lure 10 is a leader line 34, such as but not limited to a fluorocarbon leader line or a monofilament leader line, braided metal or polymeric material or suitable combinations thereof.

Referring to Figures 3 and 4, longitudinal cross-sectional views showing the internal elements of the chambered fishing lure are illustrated. Positioned within the interior of the body 12 is a reloadable leader assembly chamber 36. The reloadable leader assembly chamber 36 may contain a first end 38 and a second end 40 connected by a mid portion 42. A second chamber 44 is constructed and arranged to hold a weighted object 46, diving blade or spoon (not shown) or the like. Alternatively, the weighted object 46 may be molded within the body at any suitable location for creating different action or movement to the lure when moved through the water. Placed within the reloadable leader lure assembly chamber 36 is a reloadable leader assembly, illustrated herein as a spool assembly 48. In general, the spool assembly is constructed and arranged to contain a predetermined length of leader line in a coiled or otherwise controllably releasable configuration. The spool assembly also permits the leader line to be rewound about the spool assembly within the cavity of the lure, as illustrated in Figure 4, for repeated deployments.

Referring to Figure 5, a perspective view of an illustrative example of the spool assembly 48 is shown. The spool assembly 48 has a first end 50 and a second end 52. The spool assembly 48 comprises two support arms 54 and 56. The first end 58 of the support arm 54 connects to the first end 60 of support arm 56. The second end 62 of the support arm 54 connects to the second end 64 of support arm 56. Extending from the point of interconnection of the first end 58 of the support arm 54 and the first end 60 of support arm 56 is arm 66. At the terminal end of arm 66 is an eyelet 68. Extending from the point of interconnection of the second end 62 of the support arm 54 and the second end 64 of the support arm 56 is arm 70. At the terminal end of arm 70 is an aperture 72. The aperture 72 is sized and shaped to allow a hook, when inserted within the hollow interior of the arm 70, to fit snuggly therein, thereby preventing rotational movement while still allowing easy or controlled release. The support arm 54 contains a top surface 73 and a bottom surface 74. The support arm 56 contains a top surface 76 and a bottom surface 78.

Engaged with the support arm 54 is a spool 81 which generally includes a first circular member 80, a second circular member 82 and a drum 84. Attached to the first circular member 80 and the second circular member 82 is a pivot assembly, illustrated herein as spindles 86 and 88, respectively, see Figure 4. The spindles 86 and 88 (Figure 6A) can be coupled to the support arms 54 and 56 in such a manner as to provide rotational movement of drum 84 about its longitudinal axis 89 (see Figure 6A). While the pivot assembly is illustrated as appendages, the pivot assembly can contain other elements that allow rotational spin about an axis. For example, the pivot assembly could be a longitudinal member, such as an axle, fixed in position with a bearing or bushing inside an opening in the first and second circular members. Alternatively, the first and second circular members may be fixed to the axle, with bearings or bushings provided at the connecting points where the axle is supported. The pivot assembly may include additional mechanical means of generating rotation, such as the use of bearings, bushings, gears, ratchet and pawl systems or the like.

Referring to Figures 5, 6A and 6B, the top surface 90 of spindle 86 and/or the top surface 92 of spindle 88 may be constructed and arranged to provide the ability of retracting the leader line after deployment. For example, the top surface 90 of the spindle 86 may contain an opening 91 which exposes a recessed cavity 93. The recessed cavity is constructed and arranged to receive a tool 94. The terminal end 96 of the tool 94 is conjugately shaped to or has a complementary geometrical shape, i.e. cross shape associated with a Phillips screw head or polygon or other suitable shape, with the shape of the recessed cavity 93, such that insertion of the tool within provides a secure fit. To provide rotation of the drum 84, once inserted, the user simply rotates the handle 98 of tool 94 in a clockwise direction to rotate the drum in a clockwise direction, or a counterclockwise direction to rotate the drum in a counterclockwise direction. Alternatively, the top surface 90 may simply contain a slotted region 100 (not on 6B) which matches the shape of a common slotted screwdriver or United States coin, see Figure 6B.

Referring to Figure 4, wrapped around drum 84 is a leader line 34. A first end 33 of the leader line 34 is secured to the drum 84 through various means known to one of skill in the art, including a knot, slot, hook, fastener, staple or suitable combination thereof. As illustrated in Figures 4 and 5, the second end 35 of the leader line 34, i.e. the end not attached to the drum, is inserted through opening 102 and is secured to the eyelet 24 of hook 22 through, for example, an improved clinch knot, Palomar knot, Snell knot, crimp sleeve or the like. In the non-deployed position, the eyelet 24 and the shank 26 of hook 22 rests within the internal cavity 104 of the arm 70. The bight portion 28 and the pointed terminal end 30 with barb 32 of the hook 22 are exposed to the external environment through the opening 72.

Prior to placing the chambered fishing lure 10 into the water, a fishing line or wire 106, see Figure 8, which connects to a fishing pole, downrigger, outrigger or the like (not illustrated), is attached to the eyelet 68, through any suitable means known in the art, for example, a Uni-knot, a Rapala knot, or a Trilene knot. Once placed in the water and struck by a fish, the hook 22 of the chambered fishing lure 10 is deployed. As a result of the deployment, the leader line 34 is unwound from the drum 84, exposing the leader line and the portion of the hook housed within the chambered fishing lure 10 to the external environment. Such unwinding could be a result of a fish biting the chambered fishing lure 10 or the hook being attached to some other item. In either case, to reuse the chambered fishing lure 10, the leader line 34 must be placed back in the non-deployed position. To wind the leader line 34 back onto the drum 84, the user can simply insert tool 94, see Figure 6B, into the recessed cavity 93 located on spindle 86, and rotate in a first or clockwise direction. Should the user need to unwind all or a portion of the leader line 34 from the drum 84, the tool 94 can be used to rotate the drum 84 in a second or counterclockwise direction.

Figures 9-10 illustrate an alternative embodiment of the chambered fishing lure 10. Figure 9 is a side view of an embodiment of the chambered fishing lure having a releasable treble style hook 222, illustrated as a plug style fishing lure 210. The plug style fishing lure includes a body 212 having a front end 214, a back end 216, a top side 218, and a bottom side 220. The body 212 may be hand carved from wood, such as balsa, hardwoods, or pine, as traditionally done for fishing plugs. However, in a preferred embodiment, the body 212 is made from hollow plastics, molded plastics, or hard plastics. The body 212 may contain markings, colorations, or be shaped to resemble baitfish, mice, crayfish, insects, frogs, or other animals that fish prey upon. Attached to the plug style fishing lure 210 may be a treble style hook 222. As illustrated in Figure 9, the hook is positioned in the “non-deployed” position, in which little or no leader line 234 is exposed. Figure 10 illustrates the plug style fishing lure 210 with the treble hook 222 in a deployed position. In the deployed position, the hook 222 is located at a predetermined distance away from the body 212. The position is typically a result of a fish strike in which the fish bites at and makes contact with the lure, attaching to the hook. The hook, as illustrated, is a standard treble hook having an eyelet 224, a shank 226, a plurality of bight portions 228, and a plurality of pointed terminal ends 230 with or without barbs 232. However, the treble hook 222 connected to the chambered fishing lure 210 may be any hook known to one of skill in the art. The hook 222 may be coated with a protective coating to prolong the useful life of the hook by providing protection from the adverse effects of the environment, such as rusting, corroding, or other weathering. Coupling the hook 222 to the body 212 of the chambered fishing lure 210 is a leader line 234.

Referring to Figures 11 and 12, a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the internal elements of the plug style chambered fishing lure 210 is illustrated. Positioned within the interior of the body 212 is a reloadable leader assembly chamber 236 constructed and arranged to hold a reloadable leader assembly, illustrated herein as a spool assembly, and described previously. The reloadable leader assembly chamber 236 may contain a first end 238 and a second end 240 connected by a mid portion 242. A second chamber 244 may be included to hold a weighted object 246, blades, spoons etc. to provide various diving, swimming, floating or sinking characteristics to the lure as it is traversed through the water. As illustrated in Figure 12, the chambered fishing lure 210 may contain a reloadable leader assembly, illustrated as spool assembly 248, housed within the interior body 212 and placed within the reloadable leader lure assembly chamber 236. The spool assembly 248 has a first end 250 and a second end 252. The spool assembly 248 comprises two support arms 254 and 256. The first end 258 of the support arm 254 connects to the first end 260 of support arm 256. The second end 262 of the support arm 254 connects to the second end 264 of support arm 256. Extending from the point of interconnection of the first end 258 of the support arm 254 with the first end 260 of the support arm 256 is arm 266. At the terminal end of the arm 266 is an eyelet 268 which extends from the interior portion of the body 212 to the external environment and can be used to attach a fishing line or wire 206 to a fishing pole or the like. Extending from the point of interconnection of the second end 262 of the support arm 254 with the second end 264 of the support arm 256 is arm 270. The arm 270 contains an internal cavity 272 which is constructed and arranged to allow passage of the leader line 234 through apertures 277 and 279. The support arm 254 contains a top surface 273 and a bottom surface 274. The support arm 256 contains a top surface 276 and a bottom surface 278.

Engaged with the support arm 254 is a first circular member 280. Engaged with the support arm 256 is a second circular member 282. Connecting the first circular body 280 to the second circular member 282 is a drum 284. Attached to the first circular member 280 and the second circular member 282 is a pivot assembly, illustrated herein as spindles 286 and 288, respectively. The spindles 286 and 288 can be coupled to the support arms 254 and 256 in such a manner as to provide rotational movement of the drum 284 about its longitudinal axis, not illustrated. While the pivot assembly is illustrated as appendages, the pivot assembly can contain other elements that produce rotational spin about an axis. For example, the pivot assembly could be a longitudinal member, such as an axle, fixed in position with a bearing or bushing inside an opening in the first and second circular members. Alternatively, the first and second circular members may be fixed to the axle, with bearings or bushings provided at the connecting points where the axle is supported. The pivot assembly may include additional mechanical means of generating controlled rotation, such as use of drag assemblies, clutches, gears or ratchet and pawl systems.

The top surface 290 of spindle 286 and/or the top surface 292 of spindle 288 may be constructed and arranged to provide the ability of retracting the leader 234 after deployment. For example, the top surface 290 of the spindle 286 may contain an opening which exposes a recessed cavity, as described previously. Alternatively, a thumb wheel 219 or the like may be extended outwardly from the spool in diameter or height to a position that is suitable for grasping by the user. The recessed cavity is constructed and arranged to receive the tool 94 as illustrated in Figures 6A and 6B.

Referring to Figure 13 A, a top view of one embodiment of the chambered fishing lure 210 illustrating the top surface 290 of the spindle 286 extending through the surface of the main body 212. The top surface 290 of the spindle 286 contains a slot 291 which can be used to gather leader line 234 back onto drum 284. While the top surface 290 is illustrated having a slot constructed and arranged to match the shape of a common slotted screwdriver or United States coin, other shapes such as a cross shape associated with a Phillips screw head or polygon or any other suitable shape can be used. In this configuration, the leader line 234 can be tightly wrapped around drum 284, assuming the non-deployed position. Referring back to Figure 12, the first end 233 of the leader line 234 is fastened to the drum 284 through various means known to one of skill in the art, including, but not limited to, a knot, slot, hook, fastener, staples or suitable combination thereof. The second end 235 of the leader line 234 enters the internal cavity 272 of arm 270 through an opening 277 and exits the internal cavity 272 through opening 279. The second end of the leader line 234 terminates with a crimp ring 293. An eyelet 295 connected to the crimp ring 293 secures to the eyelet 224 of hook 222. In the non- deployed position, the eyelet 224 and the shank 226 of hook 222 may rest within a portion of the leader lure assembly chamber 236. However, in a preferred embodiment, the eyelet 224, the shank 226 of hook 222, the bight portion 228 and the pointed terminal end 230 with or without barbs 232 of the hook 222 are exposed to the external environment and connect to the eyelet 295 of the crimp ring 293 on the leader in which a portion is contained within the chamber 236 and a portion exposed to the environment through opening 294, see also Figure 13B. The crimp ring 293 is constructed and arranged to snuggly fit within opening 294 and/or the chamber 236. To rewind the leader line 234 back onto drum 284, the user can simply insert the tool 94 and rotate the tool in the clockwise or counter-clockwise direction, as described previously. Once the leader line 234 is bound to the drum 284, if not already attached, the user attaches a fishing wire, which is connected to a fishing pole, to eyelet 268 and places the chambered fishing lure 210 back into the water.

Figures 14-15 illustrate alternative embodiments of the chambered fishing lure 210. Referring to Figure 14, the location of the spool assembly 248 is positioned such that the bottom end or surface 220 contains the reloading functionality. In this arrangement, the bottom surface 220 of the pivot member 288 contains a slot or recessed cavity, as described previously (see Figure 12), which can be used to gather the leader line 234 back onto drum 284. The embodiment illustrated in Figure 14 does not include the second chamber 244, weighted object 246 or diving lip 296. Exclusion of the diving lip and/or weighted object 246 from the second chamber 244 allows this embodiment of the chambered fishing lure 210 to act as a top water style lure, remaining at or near the surface. Additionally, the support arm 254 and the support arm 256 of the spool assembly 248 are arranged in a generally parallel manner and do not directly connect to each other except for at the eyelet 68. Thus, the ends of each of the arms are connected to the eyelet and a portion or portions of the body of the device. Figure 15 illustrates the chambered fishing lure 210 as a diving style lure. In addition to the features as described above, the chambered fishing lure 210 can be constructed and arranged to include one or more diving lips 296. The diving lips 296 can be constructed and arranged to provide the capability of diving into various depths of water or providing swimming motion to the lure during forward motion of the lure. Alternatively, the lure may be pulled for diving, and when the forward motion is slowed the lure will float to the top. Weights or the like may be added to the lure in chambers or slots to alter the buoyancy and thus the action of the lure. The spool assembly 248 may be constructed in a similar manner to that described previously, containing a portion in which arms 254 and 256 directly connect and a portion in which the arms remain generally parallel to each other.

Figure 16 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the chambered fishing lure 210, in the shape of a trolling lure. The chambered fishing lure 210 contains all the features, or combinations of features, as the previously described embodiments. The main body 212 contains a rounded portion 212a and a generally cylindrical portion 212b. Attached to the cylindrical portion 212b is a silicone skirt 298, see Figure 17. In this embodiment, the main body portion may be formed from a metal which has a high density. The metal may be coated with one or more well known materials for preventing corrosion and degradation of the metal during normal use. The cylindrical portion 212b may include barbs, pins, snaps, flanges, hook and loop or the like suitable for assisting in the attachment of the skirt 298.

Figures 18-22B illustrate alternative embodiments of the chambered fishing lure 310 without the spool assembly. Referring to Figure 18, the chambered fishing lure 310 includes a body 312 having a front end 314, a back end 316, a top side 318, and a bottom side 320. Attached to the chambered fishing lure 310 is a fishing hook 322. The fishing hook eyelet 324 and shank 326 of hook 322 are contained in a cavity 328 positioned at or towards the back end 316 of body 312. The bent bight potion 330 and the pointed terminal end 332 with barb 334 are exposed to the external environment through an aperture 336 of the cavity 328. The interior portion of body 312 includes one or more chambers 340 and 342. At one end of chamber 340 is a leader lure eyelet 344 for attachment of the leader line 346. At the opposite end of the chamber 340 is an aperture 347. The aperture 347 allows passage of the leader line 346 through the internal chamber 340, exposing a portion of the leader line to the external environment. The opposite end of the leader line is connected to the hook eyelet 324 of the hook 322 which is contained in the cavity 328 positioned at or towards the back end 316 of body 312. Figure 19 illustrates the chambered fishing lure 310 in the deployed position in which hook 322 is released from the cavity 328, and positioned a fixed distance from the body 312. Placed on the outside surface of the body 312 is an external eyelet 348 for attachment of a main fishing line 350. The main fishing line 350 connects to the fishing reel (not illustrated). The chamber 342 may optionally contain a weighted object 352.

The chambered fishing lure 310 may be constructed in many shapes and sizes depending on the aquatic environment, type of fish, or other fishing requirements. For example, Figure 20A (non-deployed state) and Figure 20B (deployed state) illustrate the chambered fishing lure 310 in the form of a jig. The main body 312 contains a generally rounded jig head portion 312a and a generally rectangular collar portion 312b with one or more barbs 354. Additionally, a portion of the leader line 346 is molded into the jig head 312a. Figures 21A-C illustrate an alternative embodiment of the chambered fishing lure 310 having a soft plastic shrimp tail attachment 356. Figures 22A (non-deployed state) and 22B (deployed state) illustrate the chambered fishing lure 310 in which the jig head contains hair 358 tied or attached to the collar.

Referring to Figures 23-29, one embodiment of the reloadable leader assembly 400 of the fishing lure 310 in accordance with the present invention is illustrated. Similar in construction to the previously described embodiment 48, the reloadable leader assembly 400 is a more compact embodiment, positionable within the body of the fishing lure to provide a releasable hook and leader assembly thereto. The reloadable leader assembly 400 has a first end 402 and a second end 404, and comprises support arms 406 and 408. The support arms 406 and 408 are arranged in a generally parallel manner. Mated or connected to, or integrally formed with the support arms 406 and 408, are side wall members 410 and 412. The side wall members 410 and 412 are arranged in a generally parallel manner and connect with the support arms in a generally perpendicular manner to form an enclosure area 414, see Figure 27. The enclosure area 414 is sized and shaped to contain a rotatable member 416. Referring to Figure 28A, the rotatable member 416, illustrated herein as a spool-like assemblage, contains a first circular member 418 and a second circular member 420. The first circular member 418 and the second circular member 420 are separated by a cylindrical drum body 422. The cylindrical drum body 422 contains an open lumen 424 (see Figure 28B) that runs the entire length of the body and is constructed and arranged to receive a pivoting member 426 (see Figure 28C). The pivoting member 426 contains a cylindrical body 428 which is sized and shaped to fit within the open lumen 424 of the cylindrical body 422. The top portion and/or the bottom portion may contain a cap member 430 which could be attached to the cylindrical body 428. Alternatively, the cap member 430 may be integrally formed to the cylindrical body 428. In either case, the cap member contains a rotation tool receiving area 432. The rotation tool receiving area 432 is constructed and arranged to receive a tool, such as tool 94, for providing rotation of the cylindrical drum body 422. The rotation tool receiving area 432 can be, for example, conjugately shaped to or have a complementary geometrical shape, i.e. cross shape associated with a Phillips screw head or a hex or square screw head, with the shape of the tool 94, such that insertion of the tool within provides a secure fit. Rotation of the cylindrical drum body 422 is rotated in a similar manner as described previously. When rotated, the pivoting member 426 provides a user the ability to rotate the drum in a clockwise /counterclockwise rotation, thereby winding or unwinding an attached leader line (not illustrated). Both of the circular members 418 and 420 contain an opening 434 which is sized and shaped to receive and hold the pivoting member 426. Additionally, each of the circular members 418 and 420 may contain one or more recessed or dimpled regions 436. The dimpled regions may be utilized to lock the spool member into a fixed position as desired for storage and/or transport. Alternatively, the dimples may cooperate with a spring loaded pin or ball (not shown) to provide controlled resistance to pulling the leader from the spool.

To assemble the reloadable leader lure assembly 400, the rotatable member 416 is placed within the enclosed area 414 such that the first circular member 418 is aligned with and contacts the support arm 406 and the second circular member 420 aligns with and contacts support arm 408. The openings 434 of the first and second circular members are aligned with openings 440 and 442 of the support arm 406 and support arm 408 respectively. Once in the proper alignment, the pivoting member 426 can be inserted within the openings, and placed within the open lumen 424 of the cylindrical body 422. As illustrated in Figure 28A, the cap member 430 rests above the first cylindrical portion 418. The cylindrical drum 422 may contain an opening 444 (Figure 24) for attachment of a leader line (not illustrated). The leader line may be wrapped around the drum and exit through a slot 446 located on side wall member 412. Attached to the side wall member 410 is an eyelet hook 448. The eyelet hook 448 extends through the outer wall of the lure for attachment to the fishing line operated by the fisherman. The fishing line may extend from a fishing rod, outrigger, downrigger or any other operator controlled fishing line. The reloadable leader lure assembly 400 can be inserted within any of the embodiments of the chambered fishing lures as illustrated or contemplated and described herein. Alternatively, plastic, rubber or other suitable materials may be molded around the reloadable leader assembly. For example, Figure 29 illustrates the reloadable leader assembly 400 positioned within the reloadable leader lure assembly chamber 36 of the chambered fishing lure 10 having a releasable hook 22 illustrated in Figure 1.

Referring to Figures 30 and 31, alternative embodiments of the chambered fishing lure 500 are illustrated. With respect to Figure 30, a side view of one embodiment of the chambered fishing lure 500 having a releasable hook 22 and leader line 34 of the present invention is illustrated. Figure 31 illustrates a similar embodiment having the addition of a drag or clutch assembly that is constructed and arranged to allow additional control over the release of the leader from the lure. The chambered fishing lure 500 includes a body 502 having a front portion 504, a back portion 506, a top portion 508, and a bottom portion 510. The body 502 may be made of any material(s) commonly used in the manufacturing of fishing lures, but is preferably made of a polymeric material such as plastic. The body 502 may contain markings, colorations, or be shaped to resemble baitfish, mice, crayfish, insects, frogs, or other animals and/or objects that fish prey upon. Attached to the chambered fishing lure 500 is a releasable hook 22 and leader line 34. As illustrated, the hook is arranged in the “non-deployed” position in which little or no leader line 34 is exposed. This is the typical starting position when the fisherman places the lure into the water.

In the deployed position, the leader 34 is extended so that the hook 22 is positioned at a predetermined distance away from the body 502. The deployed position typically results from a fish strike in which the fish actually bites at and contacts the lure. In this situation, the fish may realize that it has bitten something that it does not want to eat so that the lure is released but the hook is retained in its mouth. The hook is preferably a standard fishhook, having an eyelet 24, a shank 26, a bight portion 28, and a pointed terminal end 30 with or without a barb 32. The hook 22 may be coated with a protective coating to prolong the useful life of the hook by providing protection from the adverse effects of the environment, such as rusting, corroding, or other weathering. Coupling the hook 22 to the body 502 of the chambered fishing lure 500 is a leader line 34, such as but not limited to a fluorocarbon leader line or a monofilament leader line, braided metal or polymeric material or suitable combinations thereof.

Positioned within the interior of the body 502 is a reloadable leader assembly chamber 36. The reloadable leader assembly chamber 36 may contain a first end 38 and a second end 40 connected by a mid portion 42. A second chamber 44 is constructed and arranged to hold a weighted object 46 diving blade or spoon (not shown) or the like. Alternatively, the weighted object 46 may be molded within the body at any suitable location for creating different action or movement to the lure when moved through the water. Placed within the reloadable leader lure assembly chamber 36 is a reloadable leader assembly, illustrated herein as a spool assembly 48. In general, the spool assembly is constructed and arranged to contain a predetermined length of leader line 34 in a coiled or otherwise controllably releasable configuration. The spool assembly also permits the leader line to be rewound or otherwise repositioned within the cavity of the lure for repeated deployments.

In this embodiment, the spool 81 includes a first circular flange member 80, a second circular flange member 82 and a drum 84. In a particularly preferred embodiment, one of the circular members 80, 82 is formed to have a sufficiently larger diameter to extend at least partially through the outer contoured surface of the body to allow rotation thereof by hand without the need for tools, keys or the like. Attached to the first circular flange member 80 and the second circular flange member 82 is a pivot assembly, illustrated herein as spindles 86 and 88, respectively. The spindles 86 and 88 are coupled or integrally formed as part of the spool assembly in such a manner as to provide rotational movement of drum 84 about its longitudinal axis 89. Apertures or indentions are provided within the interior of the chamber for cooperating with the spindles. An access door 530 is provided to allow access to the spool assembly as needed or for assembly. The access door may be held in position by fastener, adhesive, living hinge or the like suitable for holding the access door in position during storage and use. While the pivot assembly is illustrated as appendages, the pivot assembly can contain other elements that produce rotational spin about an axis. For example, the pivot assembly could be a longitudinal member, such as an axle, fixed in position with a bearing or bushing inside an opening in the first and second circular members. Alternatively, the first and second circular members may be fixed to the axle, with bearings, bushings, magnets or the like provided at the connecting points where the axle is supported. The pivot assembly may include additional mechanical means of generating rotation, such as the use of gears, ratchet and pawl systems or the like. It should also be noted that the spindles are illustrated as extending outwardly from the distal ends of the drum member; apertures or an inner bore may be provided within the drum and the spindles may be secured to the body of the lure without departing from the scope of the invention. Positioned at the back portion 506 of the body 502 is an aperture 72. The aperture 72 is sized and shaped to allow a hook, when inserted within the hollow interior of the body 502, to fit snuggly therein, thereby preventing rotational movement while still allowing easy or controlled release thereof.

Referring to Figure 31, an embodiment of the present invention including a drag or clutch assembly 532 is illustrated. The drag or clutch assembly is generally constructed and arranged to allow an operator to control the tension and/or release speed of the hook and leader from the lure. In a preferred embodiment, the drag assembly 532 is provided with at least one clutch disc 534 which is positioned between the spool assembly and a pressure plate 536. A thumbscrew 538 and an optional spring member 540 may be utilized to apply pressure and thus friction to the spool assembly to control the pressure required and/or the speed in which the leader and hook are available for extension from the lure. It should be noted that while the clutch and pressure plate are illustrated as flat disc shaped members, other shapes may be utilized without departing from the scope of the invention. It should also be noted that while a coil spring is illustrated, other types of spring members such as Belleville washers or the like may be utilized without departing from the scope of the invention.

As shown in Figures 32-37, an alternative embodiment of the modular fishing lure 600 includes a head portion 610 that is separable from the tail portion 650. The head portion 610 includes a front end 612, back end 614, side surfaces 616, top side 618, bottom side 620, and body 622. Positioned within the interior of the body 622 is the reloadable leader assembly chamber and releasable hook, discussed above. The tail portion 650 includes a front end 652 and a back end 654. The back end 614 of the head portion 610 includes a rounded key-hole slot 624. The rounded key-hole slot 624 extends from the bottom 620 to the top 618 back end 614 of the head portion 610. The key-hole slot 624 has a first end opening 626 which begins on the top side 618 and extends proximal to the bottom side 620 of the head portion 610, thereby creating a closed second end 628. The key-hole slot 624 is constructed and arranged to cooperate with a plurality of tail portions 650 having a corresponding key 656. Each tail portion 650 includes a corresponding key 656 on the front end 652 thereof to mate with the key-hole slot 624 on the head portion 610. Not shown, the tail portions may come in a variety of colors, sizes, shapes, and the like and may be impregnated with fish attracting scent and/or taste substances.

As shown in Figures 34, 35 and 37, the back end 614 of the head portion 610 may include a U-shaped channel 630 extending along the top side 618 of the head 610 and along each side surface 616. The U-shaped channel 630 is constructed and arranged to receive a U-shaped weighted element 632 within, to vary the weight on the head portion 610 of the lure. As shown in Figure 37, disposed along the bottom side 620 of the head portion 610 is a belly groove 634. The belly groove 634 is constructed and arranged to receive a weighted element 636 within. A second chamber 638 is constructed and arranged to hold a weighted object 640 such as a diving blade, spoon, or the like (not shown). The differing weighted elements along the head portion help to create the desired depth, motion, turbulence, or the like for the modular lure within the water. The front side 612 of the head portion 610 may further include an insertable bill 644. The bill 644 produces turbulence in the water as the lure 600 is drawn along the surface of the water, thereby possibly attracting fish. The bill 644 is insertable in a third chamber 642, which is constructed and arranged to hold the bill 644. Alternatively, a weighted object may be molded within the body at any suitable location for creating different action or movement to the lure when moved through the water. It should also be noted that scent, scent packs, scented solids, pouches or the like may be added to the chambers of the present lure to further attract fish to the lure.

All patents and publications mentioned in this specification are indicative of the levels of those skilled in the art to which the invention pertains. All patents and publications are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

It is to be understood that while a certain form of the invention is illustrated, it is not to be limited to the specific form or arrangement herein described and shown. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes may be made without departing from the scope of the invention and the invention is not to be considered limited to what is shown and described in the specification and any drawings/figures included herein.

One skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the present invention is well adapted to carry out the objectives and obtain the ends and advantages mentioned, as well as those inherent therein. The embodiments, methods, procedures and techniques described herein are presently representative of the preferred embodiments, are intended to be exemplary and are not intended as limitations on the scope. Changes therein and other uses will occur to those skilled in the art which are encompassed within the spirit of the invention and are defined by the scope of the appended claims. Although the invention has been described in connection with specific preferred embodiments, it should be understood that the invention as claimed should not be unduly limited to such specific embodiments. Indeed, various modifications of the described modes for carrying out the invention which are obvious to those skilled in the art are intended to be within the scope of the following claims.

The reference in this specification to any prior publication (or information derived from it), or to any matter which is known, is not, and should not be taken as, an acknowledgement or admission or any form of suggestion that prior publication (or information derived from it) or known matter forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavour to which this specification relates.

Throughout this specification and the claims which follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the word "comprise", and variations such as "comprises" or "comprising", will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or step or group of integers or steps but not the exclusion of any other integer or step or group of integers or steps. 26

Claims

The claims defining the invention are as follows:

1. A reloadable leader assembly for a fishing lure comprising: a fishing lure body portion including a hollow cavity therein, said cavity sized to accept a reloadable leader assembly with a hook member extending outside said fishing lure body portion, said fishing lure body portion including a main portion and an interchangeable portion, said main portion and said second portion shaped combining to resemble an animal that fish prey upon; said reloadable leader assembly including a pair of support arms spaced apart and extending in a substantially parallel arrangement with respect to each other and connected with a connecting member to maintain their substantially parallel arrangement, each of said support arms including an aperture extending at least partially through each said support arm, said apertures substantially aligned to define an axis of rotation for a rotatable member, said rotatable member containing a cylindrical shaped drum body, said drum body including a pivoting member, said pivoting member extending outwardly from the distal ends of said drum body sufficiently to fit into said aperture in said support arms to allow said drum body to rotate about said axis of rotation, a leader line having a first end, a middle portion and a second end, said first end of said leader line secured to said drum body, said middle portion wrapped around said drum body and said second end secured to said hook member, an eyelet hook secured to at least one of said pair of support arms for attachment to a fishing line, said reloadable leader assembly sized to fit within the hollow cavity in said body portion of said fishing lure to provide a releasable hook and leader assembly thereto; whereby said hook and said leader line are extended away from said fishing lure body upon a fish strike to said fishing lure while the distance between said eyelet hook and said drum body remain substantially constant.
2. The reloadable leader assembly of Claim 1, wherein said drum body includes a centrally located bore sized to cooperate with said pivoting member to allow rotation between said drum body and said pivoting member. 27
3. The reloadable leader assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein said pivoting member includes a tool receiving portion for providing rotation to said drum body from outside of said fishing lure body.
4. The reloadable leader assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein said pivoting member extends to a position outside of said fishing lure body for providing rotation to said drum body.
5. The reloadable leader assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein said pair of support arms converge to support an arm member, said arm member being tubular in construction and having sufficient length to extend to a position outside said fishing lure body, said leader line extending through said tubular arm.
6. The reloadable leader assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein said second portion is interchangeable to alter the animal resemblance.
7. The reloadable leader assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein said fishing lure body includes a slot at a rear portion thereof, said slot sized and shaped to cooperate with said second portion, whereby said second portion may be removed and replaced.
8. The reloadable leader assembly of Claim 7, wherein said slot is a T-slot.
9. The reloadable leader assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein said fishing lure body includes a second cavity therein.
10. The reloadable leader assembly of Claim 9, wherein said second cavity is sized and shaped to accept scent, said second cavity having an opening that allows said scent to escape said second cavity in a controlled manner.
11. The reloadable leader assembly of any one of Claims 9 or 10, wherein said second cavity is sized and shaped to accept a weight, said weight sized and positioned to alter the swim characteristics of said fishing lure.
12. The reloadable leader assembly of any one of Claims 9 to 11, wherein said second cavity is sized and shaped to cooperate with a diving bill.
13. The reloadable leader assembly of Claim 12, wherein said fishing lure body is constructed from a buoyant material to float on water.
14. The reloadable leader assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein said fishing lure body is interchangeable, utilizing the same reloadable leader assembly.
15. The reloadable leader assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein a portion of said fishing lure body forms said pair of support arms.
16. The reloadable leader assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein said drum member includes a flange at each distal end thereof.
17. The reloadable leader assembly of Claim 16, wherein at least one of said flanges includes one or more dimples on an outer surface thereof, said dimples positioned to cooperate with a locking member for preventing rotation of said drum member.