Patent ID: 12239115

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

As required, detailed embodiments are disclosed herein; however, the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary and may be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, as well as their equivalents.

Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as is commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. In the event that there is a plurality of definitions for a term or acronym herein, those in this section prevail unless stated otherwise.

Wherever the phrase “for example,” “such as,” “including,” and the like are used herein, the phrase “and without limitation” is understood to follow unless explicitly stated otherwise. Similarly, “an example,” “exemplary” and the like are understood to be non-limiting.

The term “substantially” allows for deviations from the descriptor that do not negatively impact the intended purpose. Descriptive terms are understood to be modified by the term “substantially” even if the word “substantially” is not explicitly recited.

The term “about” when used in connection with a numerical value refers to the actual given value, and to the approximation to such given value that would reasonably be inferred by one of ordinary skill in the art, including approximations due to the experimental and or measurement conditions for such given value.

The terms “comprising”, “including”, “having”, and “involving” (and similarly “comprises,” “includes,” “has,” and “involves”) and the like are used interchangeably and have the same meaning. Specifically, each of the terms is defined consistent with the common United States patent law definition of “comprising” and is therefore interpreted to be an open term meaning “at least the following,” and is also interpreted not to exclude additional features, limitations, aspects, et cetera. Thus, for example, “a device having components a, b, and c” means that the device includes at least components a, b, and c. Similarly, the phrase: “a method involving steps a, b, and c” means that the method includes at least steps a, b, and c.

Where a list of alternative component terms is used, e.g., “a structure such as ‘a,’ ‘b,’ ‘c,’ ‘d’ or the like,” or “a or b,” such lists and alternative terms provide meaning and context unless indicated otherwise.

Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims, the words “comprise,” “comprising,” and the like are to be construed in an inclusive sense as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; in the sense of “including, but not limited to.”

The terms “spinnerbait modularization fork,” “SBMF,” “modular spinnerbait head.” “modular spinnerbait system,” “MSS,” and “recessed bilateral groove system” have been coined by the inventor and have the meanings as one skilled in the art would understand by reading the present application and reviewing its drawings and practicing the embodiments described herein.

The various embodiments of the disclosure and/or equivalents falling within the scope of present disclosure overcome or ameliorate at least one of the disadvantages of the prior art or provide a useful alternative.

Detailed reference will now be made to the drawings in which examples embodying the present subject matter are shown. The detailed description uses numerical and letter designations to refer to features of the drawings. The drawings and detailed description provide a full and written description of the present subject matter, and of the manner and process of making and using various exemplary embodiments, so as to enable one skilled in the pertinent art to make and use them, as well as the best mode of carrying out the exemplary embodiments. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, and some features may be exaggerated to show details of particular components. Thus, the examples set forth in the drawings and detailed descriptions are provided by way of explanation only and are not meant as limitations of the disclosure. The present subject matter thus includes any modifications and variations of the following examples as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Turning now toFIG.1, an embodiment of a modular spinnerbait system according to the disclosure is designated broadly by element number10. The exemplary spinnerbait system10may include a spinnerbait rig12having a spinnerbait modularization fork (“SBMF”)14that releasably connects to a modular spinnerbait head16. Here, the SBMF14is connected to a wire frame18that in turn may be tied to a fishing line1using a fishing clip or a standard fisherman's knot3. The wire frame18also may include an arm with a clevis5for attaching a movable blade for attracting fish (not shown). Although the SBMF14is shown in this example unilaterally formed with the wire frame18, it may be formed separately and made detachable/attachable to the wire frame18.

FIG.1further shows that the spinnerbait head16includes a body20(indicated in phantom for clarity) that may be may of lead or other suitably weighted material having an internally fixed fishing hook22. Here, the SBMF14is seated in a recessed bilateral groove or channel system24within the body20, as will be explained in greater detail below, and includes a left tine or finger40with a first aperture, grommet, or eyelet42and a right tine or finger44having a second aperture, grommet, or eyelet46. Also shown in this example, the hook22is fixed within the body20and has a proximal end26with an opening, grommet, or eye28, a distal end30with a barb32, and may include a wire bait keeper68arranged between the proximal and distal ends26,30.

A retention device or mechanism34is used inFIG.1to connect the SBMF14to the hook22within the body20. By way of example and not of limitation, the retention device34may include a left (or female) bolt or receiver36and a right (or male) end or screw38. The receiver36and the screw38may be button head, nylon-insert lock nut with hexagon sockets or Phillips or flathead slots48, which are compatible for use with a hand tool, such as an Allen wrench or a screwdriver. As shown, the receiver36and the screw38are inserted respectively through the eyelets42,46of the SBMF14and through the eye28of the hook22to secure together the spinnerbait system10in a rapid, simple manner, which is particularly helpful for young or physically challenged anglers. Alternatively, the screw38may be a knurled knob as described below and is not limited to this example.

With reference now toFIG.2, the modular spinnerbait head16of the spinnerbait rig12introduced above is shown in further detail. Here, the wire frame18is attached to the body20(shown again in phantom for clarity) via the left and right fingers40,44of the SBMF14, which are seated in the recessed bilateral groove system24within the body20. Likewise, a shank of the internally fixed fishing hook22is seated in the body20. More particularly, the receiver36and the screw38of the retention device34are insertable into (or retractable from, as the case may be) respective left, right passages or channels50,52in the body20and still further into the eyelets42,46and into the opening28of the hook22. As shown, the receiver36may include female threads54for receiving male threads56of the screw38. In this example, the receiver36may include a separate exterior casing, shell, sleeve, or wall58, or the casing58may be formed over the female threads54of the receiver36. The casing58can be sized or shaped to fit tightly within and through the channels50,52of the body20, the eyelet42of the finger40, and the eye28of the hook22to prevent rotational or lateral movement when the receiver36and the screw38are tightened together using respective slots or sockets48. Also in this example, the receiver36may include a chamber60to provide an optimal compression fit when the threads56of the screw38are tightened into the female threads54of the receiver36. Similarly, the screw38may include an unthreaded shaft62sized or shaped to fit through one or more of the channel52, the eyelet46, and the eye28.

Although the exemplary receiver36inFIG.2has a button head64, and the exemplary screw38has a flat head66to provide a smooth surface on the body20, those skilled in the art will understand that other assemblies may be utilized, and the disclosure is not limited to the exemplary receiver36and screw38. For instance, the sockets48of the heads64,66may be constructed to appear as “prey eyes” to attract fish. Moreover, the terms “left,” “right.” “male,” and “female” used herein are merely for reference as the exemplary arrangements could be reversed. Still further, although the SBMF14is shown by way of example using left and right fingers40,44, in some embodiments a single finger could be coupled to the eye28of the hook22, or additional fingers, such as in a trident configuration, could be utilized. Additionally, although the eye28and/or the eyelets42,46are shown herein as being substantially round and closed, one or more of them could be partially open (as in a hook catch) and/or shaped differently, such as square-shaped to address stretching or flexing. Likewise, the groove system24could be shaped differently from the examples shown in order to accommodate differently shaped fingers40,44and respective eyelets42,46.

With reference toFIG.3, the modular spinnerbait head16with the wire frame18attached to the SBMF14is shown inserted in the body20(shown in phantom for clarity). More particularly, the left finger44of the SBMF14is most clearly shown seated in the recessed bilateral groove system24within the body20. The eye28of the internally fixed fishing hook22(partially shown in phantom) is seated in the body20with the eye28and the eyelet46of the finger44aligned and ready to receive the retention device34(see, e.g.,FIG.2).

Turning now toFIG.4, an exemplary operation of the modular spinner bait system10is shown. Here, the SBMF14is in a released or separated state from the spinner bait rig12such that the SBMF14and the wire frame18with clevis5are attached to the line1via a knot3while the modular spinnerbait head16with the internally fixed hook22, bait keeper68, and eyelet28are detached. More particularly, the left finger40and its eyelet42and the right finger44and its eyelet46have been separated from (or are being reunited with) the recessed bilateral groove system24within the body20. In this example, a screwdriver7is being used to release (or reinstall) the retention device34to in turn release (or secure) the fingers40,44of the SBMF14from (or into) the groove system24. As introduced above, the retention device34may include the receiver36and the screw38shown here with respective male threads56and the casing58to connect through the eyelets42,46and the eye28to secure together (or disassemble) the spinnerbait system10in a rapid, simple manner, particularly for young or physically challenged anglers.

FIGS.5and6show another embodiment of a Modular Spinnerbait System (MSS) with pivoting option designated broadly by element number110. The exemplary spinnerbait system110may include a spinnerbait rig112having a spinnerbait modularization fork (“SBMF”)114that releasably connects to a modular spinnerbait head116. Here, the spinnerbait head116may include a lead body120(shown transparent for clarity) with an internally connected fishing hook122, and bait keeper168. The SBMF114is further connected to a wire frame118that in turn may be tied to a fishing line101using a fishing clip or a standard fisherman's knot103. The wire frame118also may include an arm with a clevis105for attaching one or more movable blades109for attracting fish. Although the SBMF114is shown in this example unilaterally formed with the wire frame118, it may be formed separately and made detachable and attachable to the wire frame118.

FIGS.5and6further show that the SBMF114is seatable in a recessed bilateral groove or channel system124within the body120. The SBMF114includes a left tine or finger140with a first aperture, grommet, or eyelet142and a right tine or finger144having a second aperture, grommet, or eyelet146. Also shown in this example, the hook122is fixed within the body120and has a proximal end126with an opening, grommet, or eye128and a distal end130with a barb132. As indicated by the curved double arrows, the channel system124permits the body120to pitch and move relative to the SBMF114to mimic swimming prey.

FIG.6more specifically shows that the pivoting retention device134of the MSS110may include a male end retention device A, an SBMF retaining cap B, a free-floating pivoting guide rod C, a roller bearing D, a roller bearing seating cap E, an SBMF roller bearing assembly F, a roller bearing seating cap G, a roller bearing H, an SBMF retaining cap I, a male end SBMF retention device J, and an SBMF attachment point K. These components operate to provide the pivoting feature described above (see double pivoting arrows inFIG.5). An angler can choose to use the pivoting retention device134or the seated groove system described in foregoing embodiments.

Turning toFIG.7, another embodiment of a modular spinnerbait system according to the disclosure is designated broadly by element number210. The exemplary spinnerbait system210may include a spinnerbait rig212having a spinnerbait modularization fork (“SBMF”)214that releasably connects to a modular spinnerbait head216. Here, the SBMF214is connected to a wire frame218that in turn may be tied to a fishing line201using a fishing clip or a standard fisherman's knot203. The wire frame218also may include an arm with a clevis205for attaching one or more movable blades209for attracting fish. Although the SBMF214is shown in this example unilaterally formed with the wire frame218, it may be formed separately and made detachable/attachable to the wire frame218.

FIGS.7and8further show that the spinnerbait head216includes a body220that may be may of lead or other suitably weighted material having an internally fixed fishing hook222with a bait keeper268. Here, the SBMF214is seated in a recessed bilateral groove or channel system224within the body220, and includes a left tine or finger240with a first aperture, grommet, or eyelet242and a right tine or finger244having a second aperture, grommet, or eyelet246. Also shown in this example, the hook222is fixed within the body220and has a proximal end226with an opening, grommet, or eye228and a distal end230with a barb232. A retention device or mechanism234is used to connect the SBMF214to the hook222within the body220. By way of example and not of limitation, the retention device234may include a left (or female) bolt or receiver236and a right (or male) end238, which may be a knurled knob as shown. The receiver236and the knob238eliminates a need for a hand tool, although it can be provided with a screwdriver slot248if desired.

As most clearly shown inFIG.8, the receiver236and the knob238are inserted respectively through the eyelets242,246of the SBMF214and through the eye228of the hook222. In this example, the retention device234may include a separate exterior casing, shell, sleeve, or wall258, or the casing258may be formed over the female threads254of the receiver236. The casing258can be sized or shaped to fit tightly within and through a channel252of the body220, the eyelets242,246of the fingers240,244, and the eye228of the hook222to prevent rotational or lateral movement when the knurled knob248is tightened or screwed into the receiver236. Thus, the spinnerbait system210can be used in a rapid, simple manner that is particularly helpful for young or physically challenged anglers.

FIG.9particularly shows that the receiver236and the knob238are inserted respectively through the eyelets242,246of the SBMF214(not shown to scale). Again, the retention device234may include the casing258as a separate component of the retention device234but in this example, the receiver236is shown as an integral part of the finger240in which the knob238can tightened into the receiver236using the threads256and/or the slot248.

Turning toFIG.10, another embodiment of a modular spinnerbait system is designated broadly by element number310. Here, the exemplary spinnerbait system310, shown partially disassembled, may include a spinnerbait rig312having a receiving fork314that releasably connects to a modular spinnerbait head316. The wire frame318, as shown, may be tied to a fishing line301using a fishing clip or a standard fisherman's knot and may terminate in a clevis305for attaching one or more movable blades (not shown) for attracting fish.

FIG.10also shows that the fork314may be connected to a wire frame318via a terminal connection or wrap370. The connection370may be accomplished by crimping or wrapping the wire318around the fork314. Wrapping the wire318in conjunction with welding has been found to increase welding strength to prevent the wire318from detaching from the fork314due to twisting, pulling, and other forces that may be exerted on the system310by a hooked fish.

FIG.10further shows that the spinnerbait head316includes a body320that may be formed from lead or other suitably weighted material having an internally fixed fishing hook322with a bait keeper368. Here, the fork314is seated in a recessed bilateral groove or channel system324within the body320, and includes a left tine or finger340with a first aperture, grommet, or eyelet342and a right tine or finger344having a second aperture, grommet, or eyelet346. Also shown in this example, the hook322is fixed within the body320and has a proximal end326with an opening, grommet, or eye328and a distal end330with a barb332. A retention device or mechanism334is used to connect the fork314to the hook322within the body320. By way of example and not of limitation, the retention device334may include a left (or female) bolt or receiver336and a right (or male) end338, which may be a knurled knob as shown. The receiver336and the knob338eliminates a need for a hand tool, although it can be provided with a screwdriver slot348if desired. Further, the receiver336in this example is fixed to the left tine340, although the components can be reversed and are not limited to the example shown.

FIG.10further shows that the knob338aligns with and is tightened into the receiver336after the fork314is inserted in a channel352of the body320, and the knob238is inserted through the eyelets342,346of the fork314and through the eye328of the hook322. Thus, the spinnerbait system310can be used in a rapid, simple manner that is particularly helpful for young or physically challenged anglers.

Turning toFIG.11a retention device or mechanism434is provided that may be used, for instance, to connect an SBMF to a hook as explained in further detail below. The retention device434may include a fork-shaped component414having a receiver436and a nut438, which may be a knurled knob. The receiver436and the knob438eliminate a need for a hand tool, although the knob438can be provided with a screwdriver slot448if desired. More particularly, the fork414may include eyelets442,446. In one aspect, the end456of the nut438may be threaded for insertion through the eyelet446to be screwed into the eyelet442, which may be complementarily threaded to receive the threaded end456.

FIG.11further shows that the fork414may include a terminal connection470, also referenced herein as a crimp wire or tie eye. The tie eye470may be crimped around the fork414as shown and/or spot-welded to the fork414to prevent attached devices from detaching from the fork414due to twisting, pulling, and other forces that may be exerted by a hooked fish.

FIGS.12A and12Bshow the fork414and the tie eye470ofFIG.11in an exemplary connection to a fishing component such as a flat blade420. More particularly, the flat blade420may be movably connected via an eyelet450to the tie eye470, and a snap458may be connected to the flat blade420via additional eyelets452for connection of jigs, lines, and other fishing components (not shown).

With reference now toFIG.13, another modular spinner bait system510is shown. Here, an SBMF514is shown in a released or separated state from a spinner bait rig512such that the SBMF514and a wire frame518with a clevis55are attached to a line51via a knot53while a fishing component such as a modular buzzbait516with the internally fixed hook522and an eyelet528are detached. More particularly, a left finger540and an eyelet542and a right finger544and its eyelet546of the SBMF514have been separated from (or are being reunited with) a recessed bilateral groove system524within a body520of the buzzbait516while a fishing component such as a movable blade572for attracting fish is attached to the wire frame518. In this example, a retention device534is used to release (or secure) the fingers540,544of the SBMF514from (or into) the groove system524. As introduced above, the retention device534may include a receiver536and the screw538shown here with a screwdriver slot548and male threads556may be inserted through the eyelets542,546and the eye528of the jig516to secure together (or disassemble) the spinnerbait system510in a rapid, simple manner, particularly for young or physically challenged anglers.

FIG.14shows another modular spinner bait system610. Here, an SBMF614is shown in a released or separated state from a spinner bait rig612such that the SBMF614and a wire frame618with a clevis65are attached to a line61via a knot63while a fishing component such as a modular buzzbait or football jig616with an internally fixed hook622and an eyelet628are detached. More particularly, a tic eve670may be crimped around the SBMF614and a left finger640and an eyelet642and a right finger644and its eyelet646of the SBMF614have been separated from (or are being reunited with) a recessed bilateral groove system624within a body620of the football jig616, which may include a wire bait keeper688and a weed guard674. Also in this example, a retention device634is used to release (or secure) the fingers640,644of the SBMF614from (or into) the groove system624. And as introduced above, the retention device634may include a receiver636and the screw638shown here with a screwdriver slot648and male threads656may be inserted through the eyelets642,646and the eye628of the jig616to secure together (or disassemble) the spinnerbait system610in a rapid, simple manner.

FIG.15shows another modular spinner bait system710. Here, an SBMF714is shown in a released or separated state from a spinner bait rig712such that the SBMF714and a wire frame718with a clevis75are attached to a line71via a knot73while a fishing component such as a modular buzzbait716, also referred to herein as a flipping or skipping jig, with an internally fixed hook722and an eyelet728are detached. Here, a crimp wire or tie eye770may be crimped around the fork714as shown and/or soldered or spot-welded to prevent attached devices from detaching from the fork714due to twisting, pulling, and other forces that may be exerted by a hooked fish. More particularly, a left finger740and an eyelet742and a right finger744and its eyelet746of the SBMF714have been separated from (or are being reunited with) a recessed bilateral groove system724within a body720of the skipping jig716, which may include a wire bait keeper768and a weed guard774. Also in this example, a retention device734is used to release (or secure) the fingers740,744of the SBMF714from (or into) the groove system724. And as introduced above, the retention device734may include a receiver736and the screw738shown here with a screwdriver slot748and male threads756may be inserted through the eyelets742,746and the groove system724of the jig716to secure together (or disassemble) the spinnerbait system710in a rapid, simple manner. Those skilled in the art also will recognize that an orientation or angle of the groove system724may be altered or adjusted to suit a particular angler's needs. For instance, the groove system724in this exemplary embodiment is substantially orthogonal to the weed guard774, but the groove system724could be formed in the body720at a more acute or obtuse angle relative to the weed guard774and/or the hook722.

FIG.16shows another modular spinner bait system810. Here, an SBMF814is shown in a released or separated state from a spinner bait rig812such that the SBMF814and a wire frame818with a clevis85are attached to a line81via a knot83while a fishing component such as a modular buzzbait816, also referred to herein as a Ned jig, with an internally fixed hook822and an eyelet828are detached. Here, a crimp wire or tie eye870may be crimped around the fork814as shown and/or soldered or spot-welded to prevent attached devices from detaching from the fork814due to twisting, pulling, and other forces that may be exerted by a hooked fish. More particularly, a left finger840and an eyelet842and a right finger844and its eyelet846of the SBMF814have been separated from (or are being reunited with) a recessed bilateral groove system824within a body820of the Ned jig816, which may include a wire bait keeper868. Also in this example, a retention device834is used to release (or secure) the fingers840,844of the SBMF814from (or into) the groove system824. Also, as introduced above, the retention device834may include a receiver836and the screw838shown here with a screwdriver slot848and male threads856may be inserted through the eyelets842,846and the eye828of the jig816to secure together (or disassemble) the spinnerbait system810in a rapid, simple manner. Those skilled in the art also will recognize that an orientation or angle of the groove system824may be altered or adjusted to suit a particular angler's needs. For instance, the groove system824in this exemplary embodiment is substantially orthogonal to the weed guard874, but the groove system824could be formed in the body820at a more acute or obtuse angle relative to the hook822.

FIG.17shows another modular spinner bait system910. Here, an SBMF914is shown in a released or separated state from a spinner bait rig912such that the SBMF914and a wire frame918with a clevis95are attached to a line91via a knot93while a fishing component such as a modular buzzbait916, also referred to herein as a Shakey jig, with an internally fixed hook922and an eyelet928are detached. Here, a crimp wire or tie eye970may be crimped around the fork914as shown and/or soldered or spot-welded to prevent attached devices from detaching from the fork914due to twisting, pulling, and other forces that may be exerted by a hooked fish. More particularly, a left finger940and an eyelet942and a right finger944and its eyelet946of the SBMF914have been separated from (or are being reunited with) a recessed bilateral groove system924within a body920of the Shakey jig916, which may include a wire bait keeper968and a weed guard974. Also in this example, a retention device934is used to release (or secure) the fingers940,944of the SBMF914from (or into) the groove system924. And as introduced above, the retention device934may include a receiver936and the screw938shown here with a screwdriver slot948and male threads956may be inserted through the eyelets942,946and the eye928of the jig916to secure together (or disassemble) the spinnerbait system910in a rapid, simple manner. Those skilled in the art also will recognize that an orientation or angle of the groove system924may be altered or adjusted to suit a particular angler's needs. For instance, the groove system924in this exemplary embodiment is substantially orthogonal to a wire bait keeper968, but the groove system924could be formed in the body920at a different angle relative to the wire bait keeper968and/or the hook922.

FIG.18shows a further modular spinner bait system1010. Here, an SBMF1014is shown in a released or separated state from a spinner bait rig1012such that the SBMF1014and a wire frame1018with a clevis105are attached to a line101via a knot103while a fishing component such as a modular buzzbait1016, also referred to herein as a Hair jig, with an internally fixed hook1022and an eyelet1028are detached. Here, a crimp wire or tie eye1070may be crimped around the fork1014as shown and/or soldered or spot-welded to prevent attached devices from detaching from the fork1014due to twisting, pulling, and other forces that may be exerted by a hooked fish. More particularly, a left finger1040and an eyelet1042and a right finger1044and its eyelet1046of the SBMF1014have been separated from (or are being reunited with) a recessed bilateral groove system1024within a body1020of the Hair jig1016, which may include a wire bait keeper1068. Also in this example, a retention device1034is used to release (or secure) the fingers1040,1044of the SBMF1014from (or into) the groove system1024. And as introduced above, the retention device1034may include a receiver1036and the screw1038shown here with a screwdriver slot1048and male threads1056may be inserted through the eyelets1042,1046and the eye1028of the jig1016to secure together (or disassemble) the spinnerbait system1010in a rapid, simple manner. Those skilled in the art also will recognize that an orientation or angle of the groove system1024may be altered or adjusted to suit a particular angler's needs. For instance, the groove system1024in this exemplary embodiment is substantially orthogonal to the hook1022, but the groove system1024could be formed in the body1020at a different angle relative to the hook1022.

FIG.19shows another modular spinner bait system1110. Here, an SBMF1114is shown in a released or separated state from a spinner bait rig1112such that the SBMF1114and a wire frame1118with a clevis115are attached to a line111via a knot113while a fishing component such as a modular buzzbait1116, also referred to herein as a casting or grass jig, with an internally fixed hook1122and an eyelet1128are detached. Here, a crimp wire or tie eye1170may be crimped around the fork1114as shown and/or soldered or spot-welded to prevent attached devices from detaching from the fork1114due to twisting, pulling, and other forces that may be exerted by a hooked fish. More particularly, a left finger1140and an eyelet1142and a right finger1144and its eyelet1146of the SBMF1114have been separated from (or are being reunited with) a recessed bilateral groove system1124within a body1120of the skipping jig1116, which may include a wire bait keeper1168and a weed guard1174. Also in this example, a retention device1134is used to release (or secure) the fingers1140,1144of the SBMF1114from (or into) the groove system1124. As introduced above, the retention device1134may include a receiver1136and the screw1138shown here with a screwdriver slot1148and male threads1156may be inserted through the eyelets1142,1146and the groove system1124of the jig1116to secure together (or disassemble) the spinnerbait system1110in a rapid, simple manner. Those skilled in the art also will recognize that an orientation or angle of the groove system1124may be altered or adjusted to suit a particular angler's needs. For instance, the groove system1124in this exemplary embodiment is substantially in line with the hook1122, but the groove system1124could be formed in the body1120at a different angle therein.

With reference now toFIG.20, another modular spinner bait system1210is shown. Here, an SBMF1214is shown in a released or separated state from a spinner bait rig1212with multiple wire frames1218with respective clevises125extending from a fishing component such as a modular buzzbait1216, also referred to herein as an umbrella jig. More particularly, a crimp wire or tie eye1270may be tied to a fishing line121and crimped around the fork1214as shown and/or soldered or spot-welded to prevent attached devices from detaching from the fork1214due to twisting, pulling, and other forces that may be exerted by a hooked fish. Here, a left finger1240and an eyelet1242and a right finger1244and its eyelet1246of the SBMF1214have been separated from (or are being reunited with) a recessed bilateral groove system1224within a body1220of the buzzbait1216while movable blades129for attracting fish are attached via the wire frames1218, which may have respective snaps1258for connecting additional fishing components (not shown).

The example ofFIG.20further shows that a retention device1234may be used to release (or secure) the fingers1240,1244of the SBMF1214from (or into) the groove system1224. As introduced above, the retention device1234may include a receiver1236and the screw1238shown here with a screwdriver slot1248may be inserted through the eyelets1242,1246and the eye1252of the jig1216to secure together (or disassemble) the spinnerbait system1210in a rapid, simple manner, particularly for young or physically challenged anglers. Those skilled in the art also will recognize that an orientation or angle of the groove system1224relative to the body1220may be altered or adjusted to suit a particular angler's needs.

Exemplary embodiments of the disclosure may include but are not limited to:

Embodiment 1

A modifiable spinnerbait system, comprising a modular spinnerbait head having a body and a groove system formed within the body; a fork depending from a spinnerbait wire frame, the fork having a tine extending therefrom in a direction of the groove system, the tine having an eyelet formed thereon and configured for seating within the groove system; a hook partially disposed in the body, the hook having a barb disposed apart from the body and an eye within the body alignable with the eyelet of the tine; and a retention device adapted for insertion through a surface of the body and for extension through the eye and eyelet to secure the fork to the body.

Embodiment 2

The modifiable spinnerbait system as in Embodiment 1, wherein the fork includes at least two tines, and the groove system includes at least two channels to receive the respective tines therein.

Embodiment 3

The modifiable spinnerbait system as in Embodiments 1 or 2, wherein the retention device is a screw having a set of threads and a receiver having a set of complementary threads to receive the threads of the screw.

Embodiment 4

The modifiable spinnerbait system as in any of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the retention device can be adjusted using a hand tool, more particularly an Allen wrench or a screwdriver.

Embodiment 5

A modifiable spinnerbait system, comprising a modular spinnerbait head having a body and a bilateral groove system formed within the body; a fork connectable to a spinnerbait wire frame, the fork having two tines extending therefrom in a direction of the groove system, the tines each having an eyelet formed thereon and configured for seating within the groove system; a hook having a barb disposed apart from the body and an eye disposed within the body and alignable with the eyelets of the tines when seated within the bilateral groove system; and a retention device adapted for insertion through a surface of the body and for extension through the eye and eyelet to secure the fork to the body.

Embodiment 6

The modifiable spinnerbait system as in Embodiment 5, wherein the retention device includes a screw having a set of threads and a receiver having a set of complementary threads to receive the threads of the screw.

Embodiment 7

The modifiable spinnerbait system as in Embodiments 5 or 6, wherein the retention device can be adjusted using a hand tool, more particularly an Allen wrench or a screwdriver.

Embodiment 8

A modifiable spinnerbait system, comprising a modular spinnerbait head having a body and a groove system formed within the body; a spinnerbait wire frame having a fork extending therefrom, the fork defining a tine extending in a direction of the groove system, the tine having an eyelet formed thereon and configured for seating within the groove system; a hook partially disposed in the body, the hook having a barb disposed apart from the body and an eye within the body alignable with the eyelet of the tine; and a retention device adapted for insertion through a surface of the body and for extension through the eye and eyelet to secure the fork to the body.

Embodiment 9

The modifiable spinnerbait system as in Embodiment 8, wherein the fork includes at least two tines, and the groove system includes at least two channels to receive the respective tines therein.

Embodiment 10

A modifiable spinnerbait system, comprising a modular spinnerbait head having a body and a groove system formed within the body; a spinnerbait wire frame having a fork extending therefrom, the fork defining a tine extending in a direction of the groove system, the tine having an eyelet formed thereon and configured for seating within the groove system; a hook partially disposed in the body, the hook having a barb disposed apart from the body and an eye within the body alignable with the eyelet of the tine; and a pivoting retention device adapted for insertion through a surface of the body and for extension through the eye and eyelet to secure the fork to the body, the pivoting retention device being configured to cause the modular spinnerbait head to pivot relative to the spinnerbait wire frame.

Embodiment 11

A modifiable spinnerbait system, comprising a modular spinnerbait head having a body and a bilateral groove system formed within the body; a fork welded to a spinnerbait wire frame, the fork having two tines extending therefrom in a direction of the groove system, the tines each having an eyelet formed therein and configured for seating within the groove system, at least one tine having a receiver connected thereto, the receiver having threads formed therein, a hook having a barb disposed apart from the body and an eye disposed within the body and alignable with the eyelets of the tines when seated within the bilateral groove system; and a retention device adapted for insertion through a surface of the body and for extension through the eye and eyelet into the receiver to secure the fork to the body.

Embodiment 12

The modifiable spinnerbait system as in Embodiment 11, wherein the retention device is a screw having a set of threads complementary to the threads of the receiver, the screw being connectable to the receiver.

Embodiment 13

The modifiable spinnerbait system as in Embodiment 11 or 12, wherein the retention device is adjusted using a band tool.

Embodiment 14

A modular spinnerbait system may include a plurality of modular fishing components each having a body and a bilateral groove system formed within each body; a fork attached to a fishing line or to spinnerbait wire frame, preferably by crimping, more preferably by a wire tie, the fork having two tines extending therefrom in a direction of the bilateral groove system of each body, the tines each having an eyelet formed therein and configured for seating within each groove system, at least one tine having a receiver; an eye disposed within each body and alignable with the eyelets of the tines when seated within the bilateral groove system of a respective body; and a retention device adapted for insertion through a surface of a respective body and for extension through the eye and eyelet into the receiver to release or secure the fork to the body.

Embodiment 15

The modular spinnerbait system as in Embodiment 14, wherein the receiver includes threads formed therein, and the retention device is a screw having a set of threads complementary to the threads of the receiver, the complementary threads of the screw being connectable to the threads of the receiver.

Embodiment 16

The modular spinnerbait system as in Embodiments 14 or 15, wherein the retention device is adjusted by hand.

Embodiment 17

The modular spinnerbait system as in Embodiments 14, 15, or 16, wherein the retention device is adjusted using a band tool.

Embodiment 18

The modular spinnerbait system as in any one of Embodiments 14 through 17 further comprising at least one of a hook, a weed guard, and a bait keeper disposed proximate a respective body.

Embodiment 19

A modular spinnerbait kit, comprising at least two fishing components each having a respective body and a respective bilateral groove system formed within each body; a fork attached to a spinnerbait wire frame connected to a fishing line or directly to the fishing line, the fork having two tines extending therefrom in a direction of the bilateral groove system of each body, the tines configured for seating within each groove system, at least one tine having a receiver; and a retention device adapted for insertion through a surface of a respective body and for extension into the receiver to releasably secure the fork to the respective body, the retention device being configured to release one of the bodies from the fork and to receive another body for connection to the fork without having to alter the fishing line.

Embodiment 20

The modular spinnerbait kit as in Embodiment 19, wherein each body has an eye formed therein, the eye being alignable with respective eyelets of the tines when seated within the bilateral groove system of a respective body.

Embodiment 21

The modular spinnerbait kit as in Embodiments 19 or 20, wherein the two fishing components are selected from the group comprising, a bladed jig, a buzzbait, a football jig, a skipping jig, a Ned jig, a Shakey jig, a hair jig, a casting grass jig, an umbrella jig, and combinations thereof.

Embodiment 22

The modular spinnerbait kit as in Embodiments 19, 20, or 21, wherein the retention device is a screw having a set of threads complementary to threads formed in the receiver, the complementary threads of the screw being connectable to the threads of the receiver.

Embodiment 23

The modular spinnerbait kit as in in any one of Embodiments 19 through 22, wherein the retention device is adjustable using a hand tool or is adjusted by hand.

Embodiment 24

The modular spinnerbait kit as in in any one of Embodiments 19 through 23, further comprising at least one of a hook, a weed guard, and a bait keeper disposed proximate a respective body.

While the present subject matter has been described in detail with respect to specific embodiments thereof, it will be appreciated that those skilled in the art, upon attaining an understanding of the foregoing may readily produce alterations to, variations of, and equivalents to such embodiments. Accordingly, the scope of the present disclosure is by way of example rather than by way of limitation, and the subject disclosure does not preclude inclusion of such modifications, variations and/or additions to the present subject matter as would be readily apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art.