Locals to show off antique fishing collection at Riverfest
Published 8:47 am Thursday, July 31, 2014
This is a photograph of the famous Niles “Harris Cork Frogs” patented in 1897. Some believe it is one of the first lures made of wood in the United States. It came in two sizes, one for bass and one for fly-rod use. (Submitted photo)
For the past 23 years, two local retired school teachers have presented their historical displays of antique fishing items at the Niles Riverfest.
Ric Ladonski displays more than 100 fishing reels ranging in age from the 1900s to the 1950s. Over the past decade, he has also become a national expert on the St. Joseph River’s “mother-of-pearl” antique button industry. He has put together an extensive display of fresh water pearls and mother-of-pearl items for everyone’s enjoyment.
Doug Bucha presents an extensive display of antique fishing lures, which were manufactured by various local companies such as, Heddon (Dowagiac), South Bend Tackle Co. (South Bend, Indiana), Shakespeare (Kalamazoo), Paw Paw Bait Co. (Paw Paw) and Creek Chub Bait Co. (Garrett, Indiana). In addition to the displays, the two collectors will share helpful information on identifying, preserving, displaying and protecting the visitor’s fishing tackle treasures.
Bucha and Ladonski will also estimate the value of fishing items brought in by visitors.
The antique fishing lure display opens at 9 a.m. Saturday and Sunday at the Niles Riverfest.
