Visitor: Bruce Boyer Bruce asks: I have several Len Thompson Lures. Many of them are still on the cardboard cards with the fishing hints. What a great find.How do I find a relative value for these? LEN THOMPSON SPOON #4...YELLOW WITH BLACK DIAMONDS, 4 SMALLER ONES WITH ONE LARGER ONE IN THE CENTER...3 HOOK PC ON ONE END...COPPER AND BRASS WOBBLERS ON OTHER END....CARD HAS A SUGGESTED RETAIL PRICE OF 0.90 CENTS...I HOPE IT IS WORTH A LITTLE MORE THAN THAT... I ALSO HAVE A #16...WHITE WITH BLACK STRIPE. (June, 2002) Richard replies: We quit using cardboard backing in about 1983 so your lures are at least 20 years old. If the $0.90 suggested retail is on the No. 4 card, it's quite a bit older than 20 years. I really don't know what value they may have. You could always search the internet for antique tackle websites and inquire from there, or try to sell them on Ebay. Collecting old tackle is becoming more and more popular.

Visitor: Richard L. Parks Sr. Richard asks: Does Len Thompson make a barbless treble hook on their lures? I recently fished in Manitoba and Saskatchewan this month and I used the catch and release method of fishing, and had to break off all the barbs. It would be helpful if there was a barbless lure already. Also on our trip this year it was impossible to fine Len Thompson lures in Canada. We hit every store from the US border to Sandy Bay, and found NONE. Glad to see you have a web page to order off of. Thanks for making a great lure, the #2 5 of Diamonds is a killer on those Northern Pike. (June, 2002) Richard replies: Richard replies: It's a constant problem for us to reach avid Len Thompson fans like you. The website has worked out well for us but only helps to mitigate the fact that we are disappointed our lures aren't more readily available. As for the hooks, the vast majority of angling in Canada is still done with barbed treble hooks. Rather than double our inventory (the wholesalers and retailers see the barbless issue as a bit of a nightmare since they would be forced to double their inventories, UPC codes and a host of other problems) by putting on some barbless, we ask those wise anglers who practice catch and release to crimp down their barbs. That may change. The province of Manitoba has had a barbless restriction for years, BC has a barbless restriction on flowing water, many northern Lodges insist upon barbless and apparently Alberta will go barbless in 2004. I'm not sure that's the answer you wanted to hear but that's the way it works, presently. Again, thanks for using the No. 2 YR - it's our top selling item and a fabulous spoon.

Visitor: Ross Shickler Location: Huntington Beach, CA Ross writes: In late July and early August I'll be trekking to Victoria Island (Arctic Ocean) to fish for Arctic char and lake trout. Along with my trips to Nueltin Lake (2000) and Great Bear Lake (2001), this visit to High Arctic Lodge will form the substance of my next book--"Fishing Canada's Arctic for Lake Trout, Char, and Grayling" (or a similar title). What I need from you is a selection of your lures that could be used for char. Perhaps these would be # 2s, or maybe you have developed a new spoon for these fish. I don't need # 4s--I have a number of these and will use them to troll for lakers. Also--Would you please verify in writing (e-mail fine) that the lure hanging from the mouth of the big laker pictured on the June 1970 cover of Field and Stream is a Thompson # 4? I believe we've already been through this but I am submitting some changes for the second edition of "Lake Trout: North America's Greatest Game Fish" and want to be sure. This information would also be valuable in terms of my research on lake trout records over the past 100 years or so. (May, 2002) Richard responds: Yes, the photo on the Field & Stream cover is a No. 4 Yellow & Red, used to catch the then existing World Record Lake Trout. We are sending several spoons for you to use (or spread around if they work very well) on the NWT Char rivers. I could only find a few already rigged with singles, but have thrown in enough extras that you can swap whichever you need. Please try the No. 13X first. They are extra heavy, have a very wide wobble and I know individuals who have caught Char on them. They'll work better than anything else in very fast water. As you know, our No. 2 works well everywhere. I, unfortunately, have never angled for Char. A former customer showed me his broken fishing rod, and then his 24 lb Char hanging on the wall. Good Luck, athough you probably won't need it.

Visitor: Larry Poloway Location: Kelowna, BC Larry states: I live in Kelowna now, but when I lived in Edmonton (born and raised), I wouldn't even think of going out fishin without my Len Thompson spoons. I was so happy to see your website, what a nostalgia rush! Congratulations on your long tenure as the Champ of Spoons and good wishes for an even longer business success story! Thanks for years of great fishin. (May, 2002)

Visitor: Randy Drackett Location: Regina SK Randy reports and asks: I was at an auction in Abernethy today and picked up some old stuff from your original 'factory' and am curious about one of the items. It is a handle about 6' long with a large number of 1/2' split rings attached to it. The handle is marked 'pat'd'. The split rings are all jumbled together. This thing is obviously quite old and has me stumped. Could this be some kind of scaler? There were a few of the original #13's in the box as well, still on the cards. This is a long shot but you never know. Richard replies: Treasures. You found treasures. I just asked my father, Cecil Pallister who originally went to work for Len Thompson in 1947. He often made manufacturing jigs, etc and put "Patent Pending" on the item as a joke. He doesn't have a guess what it is. If you could somehow take a digital picture and e-mail it to us we might be able to better guess. I'd suggest you hang on the No. 13s, especially the ones that are packaged. They could be valuable to collectors (there are some interesting antique fishing tackle sites on the internet). If you'd like to trade your pile of old stuff for brand new Len Thompsons, let's negotiate a trade. How did the sale go? I assume it was the Ron Melnechenko sale. Ron rents the Len Thompson farm. Ron's father, John worked for Len Thompson many years during the 1950's.

Visitor: Jason Mohl Location: Tofino, BC Jason offers: Still nailing beautiful Steelhead regularly on the standby lures from the Pallister brothers. You can't beat the #OO Brass Len Thompson or the #35 Brass (Gibbs) Koho for my local spring Steelhead. Most of my clients are fly fishermen, who are sure that after rubbing a likely run with proven fly patterns, it is fishless. Just takes a little metal to wake them up........ It's amazing how many "purists" then try and grab my spoon rod. (March, 2002) Greg adds: I just love it when the "purists" are temporarily converted.

Visitor: Hans Sjodin Location: Sweden Hans reports: I just wanted to tell you, that your lures are a BIG success!!!! I sent 450 to a big exhibit in Stockholm. They were queuing-up to get their hands on (a Thermo-Tech custom) lure. We had 8 salesmen there, and after one day they all phoned me and wanted more.

Visitor: George Powell Location: Saint Marys, GA George asks: We would appreciate your help because no one down here (South Georgia) knows anything about lake trout. We fish in western Ontario each spring and the guide tells us we need to get a lure called a "laker taker." I have searched the web and cannot find any such critter. As Canadians (ps - congrats on the hockey gold) would you be at all familiar with this lure?? (March, 2002) Richard replies: I am not familiar with the "Laker Taker". Everything we make is displayed on our website. We have a history that dates back to 1929, but other than the name "Kingfish" that G'pa operated under in the early years, we did not assign names to our products. You might try the American Sportfishing Association website. They promised to list all trade names of tackle they could get their hands on. I'm not sure if it's up and running, but it might be a good place to try. Thanks for the congratulations on the hockey gold. It was a long time coming. I'll turn it around and congratulate your nation on hosting such a good event and performing so well, medal wise.

Visitor: Kevin Vandermeulen Location: Brooks Kevin asks: I am an avid user of your fishing lures, what I would like to know is do you still sell this one particular lure that I have been looking for almost a year now. The lure that I am desperately trying to locate is a spoon that looks like a red and white but it was black on the outside and had an orange stripe down the centre. If you could tell me where or how I could get my hands on this particular spoon? (March 2002) Richard replies: Thanks for using our product but the one you describe is NOT a Len Thompson. We never produced a paint pattern like that. All our present patterns can be seen on our website. We do experiment with different colours, so it's possible you had an "experimental". It may be a copy. We've had a few of those flatter us over the years.

Visitor: Ryan Francis Location: Winnipeg, MB Ryan comments: You have no idea how happy I am that you offer this service. My fiance and I are tying the knot on August 4th of this year and are huge fans of fishing. Not only are we huge fans of fishing, but of Len Thompson lures. In fact, I cannot remember any gift exchange in our past that has not involved a Len Thompson lure alongside the gift that we are giving. They seem to have always found their way into both of our stockings at XMAS as well!!! What I would like to do for our wedding is have a Len Thompson lure with our names and the date of our wedding, possibly with some wedding bell graphic or something on it. (March, 2002) Greg adds: Yes we can do "wedding lures" or other custom lures of your choice. visit the custom lure section of our website.

Visitor: Kevin Fisher Location: Edmonton, Alberta Kevin asks: I was wondering if your lures are locally manufactured in Lacombe, Alberta? I would very much be interested in seeing how your spoons are manufactured. I have been fishing with Len Thompson lures for years and being an avid angler I would love to see how your lures are made. (February, 2002) Richard responds: Yes, our lures are made in Lacombe, where we've resided since 1958. Give us a call when you'll be passing through Lacombe to arrange a tour. The middle of most days is the best to see the most processes but anytime between 8:00 and 5:00 weekdays is fine.

Visitor: Todd Buist Location: Revelstoke, BC Todd offers: My name is Todd Buist. I'm the owner of The Fishing Well a fish guiding outfit in B.C. We fish the Arrow Lakes with our clients and the lure of choice for all of my guides is the Len Thompson.

Visitor: Sean Dyer Location: USA Sean asks: In the yellow and red what is the difference between the #4 and #16? They are the same price and size. Please help. Thanks. p.s. All the guys in my group want to add to the order for them since I had such great success last year with the #4 Y&R. (February 2002) Greg replies: No. 4 spoons are the traditional shape and form. No. 16 spoons are shaped differently (narrower) and have dimples. The No. 4 spoons account for at least 95% of our large spoon sales. That is not to say that the No. 16 does not serve a purpose as it does have an excellent action. However, the No. 16 spoon doesn't stay down as well as the No. 4, so it often requires a method such as lead weights, steel line, or a downrigger to keep it down in "the strike zone." If I had to make a choice, I would stick with the No. 4. In my experience it is a great spoon for large pike, lake trout, and salmon. Others tell me that it is also an excellent Muskie spoon. I have even used this productive spoon on aggressive walleye in Northern Alberta.

Visitor: Don Stretch Location: Hearne Lake Lodge, NWT Don offers: I hope to visit your factory this winter. We just returned from the All Canadian Show in Chicago. They are still not up on the Len Thompson lures, but we are trying to teach them. They are all checking you out from your link to our website. I noticed people are asking when you are going to produce a weedless spoon. Here are a few techniques I have come up with after casting and trolling Len Thompson lures 7 days a week, 4 months a year. Last year while changing the trebles for singles I found that if you use a single hook with the equivalent weight of the removed treble and put it on with the hook point up away from the finished surface it will be close to weed free. We are barbless but if you leave the barb on a big single you can attach a rubber band between the hook eye and barb (on the larger spoons). I found that the manufactured weedless spoons don't have the action required and the fish usually only make one attempt or the stiff wires deter them. Another trick is to use a hookless Len Thompson to bring the big northerns out of their spawning holes (weeds and logs) and then change rods for a hooked Lure (one of Len's of course). When fishing with my guest I do this (Decoy Lure) to get them their big fish without spooking them from dragging 20 lbs of weeds. I hope every one is limiting their catch not catching their limit. (January 2002) Greg responds: I'm going to try the rubber band theory next spring. We look forward to your visit.

Visitor: N. Lammers Location: Texas He asks: Your lures have been recommended... I have been looking at your website and am somewhat confused by (the numbering system). Could you enlighten me as to what to order? (January 2002) Richard replies: From the recommendations, my guess is that you are going fishing in Northern Canada, probably targeting Lakers and Arctic Grayling. We understand your confusion - Grandpa's numbering system makes little sense to anyone other than us. Our No. 4 spoon ( 5 inch body) is the largest we make. It's great for trolling for large fish with heavy gear and has held the world record for Lake Trout. It is not considered a great casting spoon. You won't lose many of these, so you don't need to order large amounts. Our No. 2 spoon ( 3 1/2 inch body, 1 oz weight) is the most popular lure in the North. They can be cast or trolled on medium weight gear. You might tend to lose a few more of this size. Our No. 6 spoon ( 1 inch body ) is our smallest lure and has held the world record for grayling. You'll need light equipment to cast these tiny spoons. They have excellent action. If you stay away from the bottom, you shouldn't need too many, just an assortment of colours. We have many sizes in between. Our lures will certainly work wherever you fish so our No. 00 ( 2 inch body) and No. 0 ( 2 1/2 inch body) are our most popular sizes over our entire market area. I hope I didn't further muddify the situation.

Visitor: Bernie Dupuis Location: Saskatchewan Bernie reports: I found a lure at a portage in northern Sask. a few years ago, and I've never seen another like it. It isn't a spoon, but a brass wobbler with chrome attachments for two trebles. It is stamped Len Thompson 25. Could you give me some history on this lure? (December 2001) Richard replies: You've found a very old lure; Grandpa's pet project in the 1950's. He decided to stray from basic spoons and to create a "metal plug". After a couple of years, he took the prototypes to his diemaker in Toronto for production dies. They had a lot of problems with the clip to hold the hooks and other stamping problems. They advertised the No. 25 was coming long before they were actually able to produce it. As a result, the initial response was rather disappointing. The No. 25 never sold well. It worked, but no better than a similar size spoon that cost the angler about half as much. The No. 25 was produced from about 1956 - 1965 when it was removed from the catalogue. We have several in original packaging at our factory.

Visitor: Bruce Whittier Location: USA Bruce searches for info: My son and I are going to Anderson's Lodge next June for the first time. They had a link on their web site for your company. I would like to stock up on your spoons for Northern Pike. Could you please recommend: Size(s) spoon(s) for Northern Pike. Colors that you would not want to be without. Colors that would be good to try in addition to the above. (November 2001) Greg responds: Sounds like fun... below are a few pointers when selecting the proper lure. Sizes: No. 0, 1, 2, and 4. Depending on the type of rod and reel combination you plan to use, you basically have a choice of fishing with 4 different sizes: No. 0, 1, 2, and 4. The No. 0 and 1 can be comfortably fished with a medium/light rod. A medium/light rod can also handle the No. 2 (1 oz) spoon but you'd probably be better off with a stronger set-up. The large No. 4 trolling spoon really requires a rod with a lot of back bone. The hooks are large and strong and you require a significant amount of setting power when fishing No. 4 spoons. We believe in the formula of big spoons = big fish, however, there are certain customers who will order nothing but the smaller No. 0 spoons to be used for 20+ LB northern pike. I think it is a good idea to carry a decent selection of all sizes but focus on the No. 1 and No. 2 spoons when fishing in Northern Canada. Please be reminded that sometimes a small change in the size of the lure is all it takes to make a good fishing day a great fishing day... mix it up if (when) fishing is slow. Colors: Although all our color patterns work well under certain circumstances, everyone should carry YR (Yellow & Red), RW (Red & White) or PRR (Reverse Red), PFT (Firetiger), and PNB (50/50 Nickel/Blue) when heading North. One cannot go wrong with these patterns. I believe that our Original Series (brass back) spoons work best in colored water whereas our Platinum Series (nickel back) spoons have a slight advantage in crystal clear water. Consult the lodge and determine what type of water conditions you are most likely going to fish. Original Series: BW (Black & White), OB (Orange & Black), FW (Flame & White), CR (Chartreuse & hot Red), and GF (Green Frog) are all good backup patterns to those mentioned above. Platinum Series: We have also had some great success with PRT (Rainbow Trout). Please be reminded that our spoons are not just northern pike baits. Lake trout love our larger spoons and our smaller spoons (No. 00/No. 0) are great lures for walleye. Our smallest spoons (No. 6, No. 7) have earned a great reputation for grayling. Lastly, our lures work just as well in the USA. Try them back home... you may be surprised.

Visitor: Bob Shayne Location: Wisconsin Bob asks: Thank you for your internet site. I would like to buy a dozen of your lures. May I? Where are some great walleye lakes in Alberta, north of Edmonton. (October 2001) Greg replies: "Wingnut" is quite a handle. Yes, you can purchase lures from us. Our website offers two options... a fax order form (print, complete, and send the form) or an online store. Most people order via the online store. Re: Walleye Lakes - North of Edmonton I'm not the guy to ask. If you plan on traveling in the area, a good contact would be the Fishin' Hole stores in Edmonton (780-469-6630). They will be glad to provide you with the latest fishing information. Of course, Lesser Slave is a world class walleye lake north of Edmonton. However, you must be prepared for big water when you fish that lake. Another lake that has been producing large walleye recently is Pigeon Lake... about 45 minutes southwest of Edmonton. Be sure to check the regulations as much of Alberta's walleye fishery is catch and release.

Visitor: Steve Elmer Steve asks: What size treble hooks are on the #4 spoons ? I'm trying to convert some of mine to weedless trebles but need the size. Thanks. (September 2001) Richard replies: We use a size 4/0 treble hook. BUT, if you are going to use SINGLE hooks with a weed guard, I'd recommend about a 7/0. We use a VMC single siwash salmon hook size 7/0 when we use our No. 4 lures in areas where single hooks are the norm.

Visitor: Hans Sjodin Location: Sweden Hans asks: My name is Hans Sjodin, and I´m from Sweden. Heard your spoons are great for lakers. What colours are best for them?? Have you sent spoons to Europe before?? (September, 2001) Richard replies: We've made a few sales to Europe, mostly through Harris Angling in the UK. We have also sold some to consumers in Europe through our online store. Our spoons do have a great reputation for Lakers, since northern Canada contains perhaps the best Lake Trout fishing in the world and Len Thompson gets its share of attention. Our YR Five of Diamonds pattern is perhaps the most "used" colour pattern, but I like some of the new Platinum Series colour patterns, especially NB Nickel Blue. All our patterns can be seen on the website.

Visitor: Kevin Location: Saskatchewan Kevin enquires: I enjoy your lures very much as do my fishing buddies. I have a question for you. What happened to the red and white five of diamonds. We thought these were made and have never found them. I'm quite interested as well as others of buying lures such as these. (September, 2001) Richard responds: Not ours. If you've seen a Len Thompson pattern with Red Diamonds on a White background, we didn't make it. We make Yellow & Red and Yellow & Black. As far as I know, we've never really toyed with any other combinations of diamonds (and my memory goes back at least as far as mid-60's). If you are ever travelling through Lacombe during regular business hours, stop in for a tour and we'll show you our "old stuff".

Visitor: Scott Getschel Location: Alberta Scott asks: I would like to enquire about the possiblity of getting a brass and orange spoon ( Brass w/ orange stripe, No. 2). The only ones that I have been able to find in the stores are a dimpled orange & brass (orange spoon w/brass stripe). The ones I would prefer are smooth. I had thought that your company used to make this lure as it was a favorite of my fathers who proudly dubbed it "Old Faithful" because he had never been skunked when fishing for Northern Pike with it. (July, 2001) Greg replies: We play (experiment) around with the pattern you have described. One of my brother's best fishing buddies always asks us to make another batch of "Flame on Brass." Unfortunately, we have not brought this pattern to market (yet) and it is not available to the public.

Visitor: George Watson Location: Ireland George was interested in buying Len Thompson lures in Great Britain. (May 2001) Richard replied: At one time we had a distributor in England - perhaps you are familiar with Harris Angling. I doubt they have any Len Thompsons left in inventory but you could try them. Thank you for you interest. It's very gratifying to see that Irish Pike can be fooled as easily as Cdn Pike by a Len Thompson spoon.

Visitor: Andy Andy offers: Just recently I noticed that you folks have a Website, and have only one complaint - you're a Canadian company... please list Canadian prices as well as American on the site for those of us who would feel more comfortable ordering online in that case. I know that you're more interested in Canadians buying your products in stores, but it seems that you've forgotten your biggest customer base somewhat - us Canadians! Please don't shun us! (March, 2001) Richard replies: Believe me, the last thing we want to do is "shun" our Canadian customers. We are proudly Canadian and I think that comes across on our website. The problem is that by selling direct to consumers we risk alienating our retailers and wholesalers. We are always doing a balancing act - trying to make sure anglers have all the Len Thompson lures they need and at the same time ensuring all the contributors to our distribution channel get fairly compensated.

Visitor: Kenneth Klima Location: Washinton Kenneth asks: I purchased a couple of Pallister Diamond Lance commercial fishing spoons (#5 and #6 color 153BGSPS) from Nikka Industries in Vancouver, BC, and want to get more. Do you make them? If so, where can I buy the larger sizes and how much do they cost? If you don't make them, who does? Greg replies: Pallister is not a common surname, yet surprisingly, Pallister commercial spoons are not related to our family businesses of Len Thompson, Gibbs, and True North. To our knowledge a new person has purchased the dies and plans on resuming business. We believe he can be contacted at the following number: Palco Products - Sooke, BC 250-642-3355. August 2001.

Visitor: Jack Penny Jack states: Mary and I both caught a lot of nice fish with both Gibbs and Len Thompson spoons (Taltson River, NWT). I gave Alan Broderick, Chairman of the Irish Pike Society, the spoons you sent for him and suspect you'll be hearing from him soon. He was very big on using Muskie Jerkbaits for Pike until he spent a day in the boat with us. You might say we opened up his eyes a bit. July 2001

Visitor: Chris Paton Location: Alberta Chris asks: I've been using Len Thompson spoons for fishing pike since I was a kid, and they've given me nothing but success. Just recently (in fact yesterday) I was fishing the North Saskachewan river, the pike were biting so hard that my buddy and I lost four of Len's spoons. I'm looking to find out what your outlooks are on using leaders on your spoons, and if so what size leaders. I've been told that a leader on your line can affect the proper action of a spoon, is this true? Richard replies: Thanks for the compliments about the effectiveness of "Len Thompson" lures on Pike. Try them on other species - I think you'll be just as happy. Personally, I like to use a snap swivel all the time. It makes changing colour or size a breeze. It does NOT affect the action of our product. And besides, my grandpa, Len Thompson, tied them on for me that way when I was a small child. If you use a snap swivel, you can simply clip on a wire leader when fishing pike. A wire leader will not affect the action of a Len Thompson spoon although, I don't doubt it would interfere with certain plugs. I cannot believe that Pike don't see the wire leader, but they generally don't shy away too much. Still, I like to keep a minimum of clutter about the spoon but I think that's more for me than the fish.

Visitor: Mark Thomas Location: Saskatchewan Mark offers: I'm born and raised on Len Thompson Spoons. I currently have 'Trophy Travel Saskatchewan' at www.4bigfish.com . I book Saskatchewan fishing trips for people all around the world. I always recommend your spoons, usually red and white or 5 of diamonds. I have found nothing better for Pike or Trout.

Visitor: Rod Lehmann Location: Manitoba Rod asks: Did you not at one time sell a #3 Len Thompson? I was so sure you did I keep asking for them for my birthday and nobody in the family seems to be able to find them....and when I look at your chart, there doesn't appear to be a #3. Am I looking in vain, or are they some out there? Richard replies: Never. If they are out there, they are trade mark violations. A couple of weeks ago we did a consumer show in Edmonton and were asked several times for the No. 3. Some people insisted that we made them, but as Len Thompson's grandson, active full time in the business since 1974, holder of a B.A. in History from the U of C, and unofficial company historian, we've never made a No. 3. We probably should. We should also make a No. 5, much larger and heavier than our No. 4. Maybe some day...

Visitor: Damon Damiani Location: Luxembourg Damon asks: I will be spending my next holidays on a lake in the Yukon Territories through a company named Peacock's Yukon camps. As I'm from Europe and I've no idea which lures whill be necessary for pike and trout fishing, you could perhaps (suggest) some of your articles which may be fit for my fishing adventure. We will be a group of 4 friends trying to catch some good pikes and trouts with light spinnig rods...Please let me know your ideas, thank you in advance. Richard responds: Enjoy your Yukon adventure. Our bigger spoons are well known for taking large Pike and large Lake Trout. You may wish to use our largest, No. 4 size, 125mm body, which is best for trolling. Our next largest spoon, No. 2 size, 75 mm body, would be best for casting long distances. I firmly believe in the old adage, "Big Spoons - Big Fish". Take Peacock's advice on technique, but the one tip I have is don't be shy about slowing the boat on a regular basis. It's my opinion that a lot of the time, Lakers follow just behind the lure. When it slows or stops unexpectedly, they tend to strike. Colours. Everyone likes the Yellow & Red (for Lake Trout especially), but also for Pike which makes it our number one selling colour pattern. I like Red & White or Flame & White for Pike. I believe Nickle Blue and FireTiger are also great colours for all species of fish. Some people swear by Orange & Black "Potato Bug" for Lakers and my father-in-law wouldn't use anything but Green Frog for Pike. It's really up to you, but remember that it certainly isn't going to catch anything if it's in your tackle box.

Visitor: Gary Weselosky Location: Alberta Gary claims: Your smaller 5 of diamonds are great for both river and lake walleye.

Visitor: Yves Laurent Yves asks: I am a catch & release fisherman and would like to replace the treble hooks on my Len Thompson lures with single hooks. I have come accross a lure that was promoting Report A Poacher, it was made by your company and it had a proper single hook. I think this would make releasing fish much easier. Can you tell me where I could find these hooks? Richard replies: We suggest you search top retailers for the following items. Len Thompson No. 6 & 7 - Eagle Claw 209M, Size 8 Len Thompson No. 8 - Eagle Claw 209M, Size 4 Len Thompson No.00 & 0 - Eagle Claw 209M, Size 1/0 Len Thompson No. 1 & 2 - VMC 9170 NI, Size 3/0 Len Thompson No. 4 - VMC 9170 NI, Size 7/0

Visitor: Steve Elmer Location: Michigan Steve claims: Just thought I'd drop you a line and let you know that I took some really nice fish on your spoons on my recent vacation. We fished a lake by the name of Favourable in the NW corner of Ontario. I think I bought 8 or 10 spoons but mainly used the # 4 platinum white w/ red stripe the most. I wanted to try the others but couldn't bring myself to swap out this spoon. I took countless walleyes on this big spoon as well as some large northerns. The biggest fish I landed was a 20 # northern that was short and stout; this guy was a hair under 39 inches but had an 18" girth ! I had another northern on the same spoon that would have dwarfed this pike but he must have had hold of the leader and not the hooks. I did use the #2 five a diamonds a while too and took quite a few fish on this spoon as well. The #2 platinum blue/silver did really well for lakers in a portage lake I fished as well. Great product - really produced. For the most part - the only time I changed lures was when we were in heavy weeds and I had to switch to the XXXXXX (brand-name). Any plans of a weedless line? If/when you go weedless I'll take a dozen of the biggest ones you make!! Still can't get over those little walleyes hammering that #4 spoon and the many many follows I had by PERCH !! Greg replies: Thanks so much for the feedback. I'll relay a short story that is similar to yours.... A few years ago I arrived at a lake in Northern Alberta and was greeted by the lodge owner. When one of my buddies mentioned we make Len Thompson lures, the lodge owner asked if we had brought any No. 4s. Of course the answer was YES! We brought big No. 4s for the large pike we expected to catch. He surprised me when he followed up his question with, "The walleye are hammering those big spoons." After settling in, we headed out to fish the evening. I tied a No. 4 YR on the end of my line and within a minute I had the first of many fish (an nice 3.5 lb walleye). I too, find it hard to believe that walleye will attack such a large lure. One has to see it to believe it. Re: Weedless - We do not have any plans at this time to manufacture a weedless spoon. The best advice I can offer is to attach a single hook or try one of the "weedless" (guarded) trebles that you can find a certain tackle shops across North America.

Visitor: Ron Wittwer Location: California Ron asks: I fish in waters that contain lake trout but have only caught 4-8 pounders while using other kinds of tackle. If you could give me some advice on lure presentation I would not only use your lures but I would purchase more of them. I currently am going in September to Flaming Gorge, Utah. Greg replies: First let me say that I am not a lake trout fisherman. The only time I fish for lake trout is in the early part of the season ("ice-out") way up north in Canada. Needless to say, the fish are shallow and typically aggressive at that time of year and all we have to do is cast our big Len Thompson lures (mostly No. 2s - 1 oz spoons). (Note: I prefer casting, however, most lake trout anglers would troll our biggest Len Thompson lures (No. 4).) Our spoons are very popular in Canada for Lake Trout and Northern Pike. The main reason for their popularity is that they work extremely well for many species of fish and they're simple to use. A Len Thompson is designed (shape, weight, etc.) to work at a variety of speeds and conditions. You can tell the spoon is "working" properly if it is wobbling through the water. If the spoon is constantly spinning, then you are retrieving the lure too quickly. If it is not wobbling, then the retrieve speed is too slow. As mentioned before, we assume that most Lake Trout anglers are trollers. Trolling a Len Thompson at the proper depth is a proven technique for lake trout fishing. (At one time, our No. 4YR held the World Record Lake Trout from Great Bear Lake, NWT.) A fish finder will tell you where the fish are at and then it is up to you to get the lure to that depth using lead weights, downriggers, steel line, etc. Others have told me that they jig our large spoons when fishing lake trout. Jig the spoon near or on bottom. Stir up some "dust." Depending on the jigging depth, you may wish to bump the bottom for a while and then retrieve the spoon. Striper Bass fall for this technique as they follow the spoon from the bottom and take a swipe at the lure before it reaches the top. I assume that a laker would fall for this as well. Colors? - Everyone likes the old faithful, Five-of-Diamonds. Other popular Lake Trout colors in our Original Series include Orange and Black, Flame and White, and Black and White. I would also highly recommend trying our 50/50 Nickel/Blue and Firetiger patterns from the Platinum Series. Note: If all else fails, mix it up... reel/troll fast, reel/troll slowly, stop, twitch it, speed it up... all these methods work in certain conditions for the type of fish (mostly trout and pike) that I fish.

Visitor: John Parker Location: Alberta John offers: I have had all of your lures -- replaced as the "big one's" or weeds/trees/etc., have snapped my line -- since 1969. My Grandpa, who served in WWII loved your product and being an amazing fisherman, got me "hooked". Keep up the good work! I have been on the hunt now for months for your black & white -- but in a number 8. I have been to all my regular lure shops with no success anywhere here in Alberta. Could you please advise your reps to strongly suggest your dealers to stock more of this hook? Your levels are usually always low but some locations don't even stock this one. I used to have three of them -- purchased at varying times over the last 30 years -- but lost my last one to a beautiful rainbow on the Bow River right in downtown Calgary. That rainbow deserved to get away with the honorable fight it put up -- but I also deserve the opportunity of another chance.... Very happy to finally drop you a line -- I've been meaning to do so since I was a kid! Thank you for all of the wonderful catching experiences!!!! Greg replies: You're right, Black & White is a sleeper... I was fishing the Bow just last Friday and a No. 00 Black & White was my "go to" lure for a large portion of the float. Man, there's some beautiful fish in that river.

Visitor: Jukka Koskeli Location: Finland Jukka proudly claims: I was on vacation and had time to go fishing as well. Biggest pike I caught weighed almost 9 kilos and was 106 cm long.

Visitor: Henry Location: USA Henry requests: We will be fishing for brook trout the 3rd week of September of this year. We will be fishing about 12 different lakes in and around Lake Superior Provincial Park. I fished 10 miles from this area 15 years ago and was given 2 No. 8 BW and 2 No. 8 RW (Original Series) from a Canadian fisherman who was leaving camp and told us to try them. We did not catch any on R/W , but the B/W sure caught some of the biggest brook trout we had ever caught. So this trip we're going well stocked with Len Thompsons. From what I understand the fish range from 1to about 8 LB's in this area any suggestions on lure selection would be appreciated. Greg responds: Although I've rarely fished for large brook trout, GF, FW, and FT always produce when chasing Rainbows and Cutts. Have fun and send us a picture.

Visitor: Mark McAuley Location: Alberta Mark offers: Thank you for creating some of the best fishing lures in the world. Keep up the superb work!

Visitor: Sean Dyer Location: New Jersey Sean Dyer reports: Thank God I found your Lures. I went to Way North Camp in Northwestern Ontario last week and I fished the Len Thompson #4 five of diamonds with great action for Trophy pike. I landed 6 fish over 40" with the largest being 44. I also caught over 20 pike between 33" and 39" on the same lure. I used the five of diamonds all week when pike fishing. I never used another spoon. It's clear to see the difference as my partner fished with a XXXXXX (Brand-name weedless spoon) and although he did catch a few big fish the Len Thompson out fished it 5 to 1 for Big trophy size fish. Un- fortunately for him he lost his Len Thompson on his first fish which was over 40". The #2 blue and silver out fished all other lures for big lake trout as well. Myself and every one else in camp that week is now a believer in your products and I will always start each trip with #4 five of diamonds. Thanks for your help in the lure selection prior to my trip. p.s. If I had more Len Thompsons with me I could have made a fortune at the lodge as everyone else wanted them.

Visitor: Gordon Seymour Location: Northwest Territories Gordon states: I have been sport fishing in Northern Alberta and the Northwest Territories for more than 15 years. In all that time, I have never come across a lure that out-produces the venerable Len Thompson spoon. I have caught and released more than my fair share of 20 lb. plus Lake Trout using your good 'ol #4, in Black & Yellow Five'o'Diamonds pattern. When the chips are down...and rest of the boys are gloating...I pull out my trusty Len Thompson. I have never been disappointed yet! This season I am looking forward to trying out some of your new Platinum Series lures. I have every confidence that they too will earn a coveted place in the top drawer of my tackle box. Keep up the good work...and remember to conserve our waters...pinch your barbs and let 'em go to fight another day!

Visitor: Lance Hibak Location: BC Lance offers: I've been using the Len Thompson Lures for 3 years now and seem to be catching trout any time of the year except winter. I use only one size and one design and it never fails. I used to use XXXXX (brand name spinners) but not any more... Len Thompsons all the way.

Visitor: Sean Dyer Location: New Jersey Sean asks: I have never used them (Len Thompsons) before but heard great things about them. I do have one question. Do you recommend changing the treble to a single and adding a trailer such as a power grub? Will that help or hurt the presentation? Greg replies: Changing the treble to a single will not affect "presentation." However, a power grub may affect the spoon's action through the water... all you can do is try. Let us know how it works. Sean continued: Please describe your method. Do you crank and stop... crank and stop... or do you jerk the spoon in? Greg responds: - I vary retrieve speeds... I don't think I ever just jerk in the spoon. Some days with some fish, an increase in retrieve speed helps entice a strike. I spend a large percentage of my time fishing smaller rivers and streams... I sometimes let the spoon "flutter" back in the current so it stays at a certain depth or in a certain channel/seam. Please note that I like to think I catch more fish than the average person, however there are a few days where I do more fishing than catching.

Visitor: Kevin Clark Kevin asks: I have used your lures all my life. I have had much success with your lures. My favorite lure is the #00 rainbow trout from the platinum series. Does your company provide tours of your plant on the weekends? Greg replies: We'd be glad to tour you and your family through someday, however, it's best if you plan to visit around our work schedule. Our regular work week is Monday - Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm (4:30 pm on Friday). We also shut the plant down for annual holidays the first 4 weeks in August. (Boy, it sure sounds like we have a cushy job.) Richard and/or Greg are generally at the shop everyday in August but it is best to visit the plant when people are actually making our products.

Visitor: Ron Thompson Location: Clintons Ash Rapids Lodge Ron offers: I guide there (Clinton Ash Rapids) too. The Len Thompson 5 of Diamonds is all I use for Northern by the way. 5 of D all the way baby.....

Visitor: Glen A Hill Location: Glen Hill's Saskatchewan Trophy Hunting and Fishing Lodge Glen offers: You can't beat the yellow and red 5 of diamonds Len Thompson for great big pike... I'm looking at a northern pike in my office right now with a Len Thompson spoon in it. My personal best is 25lbs northern with a yellow and red!!!!

Visitor: Keith Rae - Get Hooked Fishing Tours Location: Alberta Keith offers: I still use Len Thompson lures for certain water conditions and have a 13.4 lb, walleye to prove they work well. Some guides hate to admit they use them, I don't know why; your hooks are a Legend. Greg replies: I imagine using a simple, old Len Thompson is not "cutting-edge" enough for some guides. Thanks for the compliments.

Visitor: Josh Lawrence Location: White City, Saskatchewan Josh offers: Len Thompson lures are classics for pike and walleye. Everybody that lives in Saskatchewan and goes fishing has to own a Len Thompson lure. I have fished with them for many years and they are the consistent in my tackle box. Trolling around bays is an excellent technique. As soon as a catch a fish trolling with a Len Thompson I always stop the boat immediately. And I cast a few times. More often than not there is another fish waiting there for your lure. I think many times two fish are going for the same hook, but only one gets it so you have to go back for the other fish. Old classics like five of diamonds are always good, but the best Len Thompson spoon in the recent years has been the rainbow trout Platinum Series hook.

Visitor: Aaron Aspinall Location: Calgary, Alberta Aaron claims: When fishing with spoons the angler should always remember to use the stop and go routine. This routine is probably used by others, but its success is definitely underrated. This move is easy to learn and very effective. The angler should reel the spoon in and the let it slowly flutter or drop to the bottom. After a couple feet of fluttering he should then reel the spoon in and repeat the process all the way to the boat. This routine is particularly effective for pike. They will be almost mesmerized by the fluttering movement (which actually mimics a wounded baitfish) and will actually attack at that time, not on the retrieve as one would think. Also, wait till you feel a steady pull on the other end, not a nibble, before setting the hook. The pike will attack rather aggressively and if you attempt to set the hook before he engulfs it, chances are that fish will be scared off, possibly a trophy. Try the move out, you will definitely be amazed! (I also found that fluorescent orange has better success rates with pike.)

Visitor: Robert Colon - Taltson Lake Lodge Location: Northwest Territories Robert claims: Your lures are the very best on the market and catch more fish at our lake than any other lure. If I was stranded in the wilderness and had to rely on catching fish to survive I could do it with your #2 five of diamonds. My clients want to take them home when they leave. I have owned and operated fishing lodges for the past ten years and I have seen first hand the number of fish caught on your lures, they are second to none. I wouldn't even consider getting in my boat without them as a seasoned guide. For the guys that bring their own tackle they ask what we suggest and they end up with a spoon that looks similar but the weight is not there, nor is the product finish.

Visitor: Preston Wilson Location: Oxnard, California Preston asks: Do you have Colorado spoon? Greg replies: We do not manufacture a Colorado Spoon, however, our brother Syd at "Gibbs" in Burnaby, BC does! Syd can be reached through the website, www.gibbsfishing.com

Visitor: Mo Miller - Hasbala Lake Lodge Location: Saskatchewan Mo offers: Just for your interest we have found over the years that your #2 and #4 yellow/red five of diamonds have consistently been the best lure for both pike and trout by far at our lodge and I always recommend them highly to our guests. The frog/lady bug and red and white have also been very good. Many of our American guests on their first trip will bring some (XXXXXXXX) spoons of similar size and colour but there is no comparison to the Len Thompson for performance and they are soon purchasing some of your lures off of our tackle rack. I do not know what it is (weight/shape?), but even though the two lures are similar, yours consistently outperforms the (XXXXXXXX). Greg replies: There is a popular consensus from lodgeowners/guides that a Len Thompson is better than a (XXXXXXXX)... but I still can't hear it enough! Thanks for the compliment. Our new 50/50 Nickel/Blue pattern seems to be exceptionally effective in the North as well.

Visitor: George Bliss of J.R. Sports Location: Regina, Saskatchewan George asks: I am attaching two photos of a hook (with panel) that I acquired several years ago. From visiting your web-site, the information states it would have been made prior to 1958 as the cardboard panel it came on states "Len Thompson Bait Co. Abernethy , Sask." The hook is nickel with "Len Thompson No. 00" stamped on the concave side of the spoon. Someone, no doubt the original retailer, has written "45" on the upper left corner of the panel in pencil. I would guess this was 45 cents. This hook, it would seem, has not traveled very far in its lifetime as I found it at a garage sale here in Regina, just some 50 or so miles from Abernethy. The hook has never been used. I am guessing the Len Thompson No. 00 hasn't changed much over the years, but is there a chance of dating it from the cardboard panel? Also, are you aware of any particular value that this hook & panel have. It is not my intention to sell it, but keep it with my other fishing treasures. Richard replies: Very Interesting - You are correct in your assumptions. I would date the lure between 1950 and 1958 as Len Thompson Bait Co. was established in 1950 and it was made in Abernethy. It seems to have a copper ring. Grandpa would use many different kinds of split rings but only used copper when nickel plated rings were unavailable. The presence of a copper ring leads me to believe this lure was probably early 1950's. The 45 cents suggested retail is about right for the era. I can't hazard a guess as to its value but I'm pretty sure it's more than 45 cents. There are some good antique fishing tackle sites on the internet so maybe you could get an idea from them. George adds: Thanks for you informative reply. Yes, it does have a copper split ring. I have printed off the information below and filed it away with the hook. Perhaps in 50 years the "package" will end up on an Antiques Roadshow.

Visitor: Lawrence Bieschke Location: Wilmette, Illinois Lawrence asks: My son and I are planning to fish for Lake Trout in Red Lake, Ontario, Canada in May - June, 2001 and Grass River Lodge, Flin Flon, Manitoba, Canada in August, 2001. We have been advised to obtain Len Thompson Five-of-Diamonds lures for Lake Trout. Please advise me on the appropriate size of the aforementioned lure that we should purchase. Please let me know where I can purchase these lures. Richard replies: You'll enjoy your northern experience and we're happy Len Thompson will be part of it. Presently our distribution in the USA is improving. Ed Shirley Sports (a large Chicago-area retailer) has made a commitment to buy Len Thompson lures so they will have a good selection in the Spring of 2001. Also, Galyan's may come on line soon. Another good bet would be to buy through Cabela's catalog (toll free at 1-800-237-4444). They have a decent selection of our larger sizes (2's and 4's); the sizes you'll be looking for on your trip. Also, you can buy our spoons through our online store.

Visitor: John Kalina Location: USA John asks: Hello, I was wondering if by any chance you have weedless spoons. We will be going to Canada in August and will be casting over weed beds. Your spoons work the best out of any spoons we have tried. Richard replies: Second time in a couple of days we've been asked for weedless spoons. There must be a trend developing. All our lures are assembled using split rings to aid in changing hooks. We recommend you find some weed guard hooks and replace the trebles with them. Or, we often use single hooks - they aren't entirely weedless, but the single certainly cuts down on the number of hang-ups. If you buy singles, make sure you get ones with large eyes such as Mustad 209N.

Visitor: Angus Macaulay Angus asks: What is the difference between your Original Series and your Platinum Series, other than the colors offered? What is the difference between the No. 4 and the No. 16 in the Original Series? The length and weight are listed as the same for both. Richard replies: The main difference is that the Original Series spoons have a lacquered brass back, whereas the Platinum Series spoons have nickel plated back. The Platinum Series has an additional split ring and swivel on the front end, different packaging for identification on store shelves, and generally more complex paint patterns. For example, the FireTiger patterns requires eight coats of paint and clearcoat. The No. 4 and No. 16 are about the same size but they are significantly different in shape. The No. 16 is dimpled and flatter - great for action, but not so good for staying down. If you fish with a downrigger, I'd suggest you try our No. 16. If you don't, use our No. 4 as the lure will run deeper. The No. 16 spoons are tough to find. You may have to order through the factory. Cabela's offers Nos. 00, 0, 1, 2 and 4 through their catalog (1-800-237-4444) and some stores. They probably have the widest selection of our product in the USA. Faber Brothers (773-376-9300) is a large Chicago distributor who now carries our product and they may be able to direct you to Upper Mid-West stores that carry Len Thompson lures. Of course, you can order any of our items through our online store.

Visitor: Don Redenbach Location: Yorkton, Saskatchewan Don offers: I have been using Len Thompson spoons for 20 years and have had lots of success with them. They are an all round great hook for most species. Keep up the good work. P.S. My favorite is, of course, the five-of-diamonds red/yellow.

Visitor: Sandra Sproull Location: Lloydminster, Saskatchewan Sandra offers: We really like the five-of-diamonds, we have had very good success with this lure as well as all your lures. Richard replies: It's always nice to hear a compliment. We are very proud of our product and comments like yours further commit us to not messing with Grandpa's ideas. He introduced the five of diamonds pattern in 1951, as far as we know, he was the first manufacturer to use the pattern.

Visitor: John Frayn Location: Edmonton, Alberta John asks: I have come across a Len Thompson #25 lure. It is white with red on each end coming to a point in the center of the lure. There are two hooks, attached to the lure by two metal clamps that are screwed into the top of the lure. I am wondering what approximate date is associated to this type of lure. Any help would be appreciated. Richard replies: Grandpa developed the No. 25 in the mid 1950's as his answer to the "No Minnow" law. It was slow to go into production since he had many troubles with the clips used to hold the hooks. If you ever drag it through the water, you'll see it has a good, quick side to side vibration. However, it didn't catch more fish that a standard Len Thompson No. 0 and it retailed for about twice the price. The lure never really caught on and was canceled in the mid 1960's. If your lure is in its original plastic box, you should be able to guess its age by the address on the card. If the card reads Abernethy, SK it predates 1958; if it reads Lacombe, AB it was made 1958 - 1965.

Visitor: Michael Stachowsky Location: Toronto, Ontario Michael asks: I am a Student at a Toronto high school, and I am doing a report on sport fishing. I need some info on where your company gets the raw material that you make into lures. Also, what are your lures made of? Finally, what is your marketing strategy to sell your lures? I know that is a strange question, but it is one I have to answer. Richard replies: The specific answers to your question is that we use Half Hard Cartridge Brass Alloy 260 to make most of our fishing spoons. We buy it from several places, but one of the most common is Roy Metals/Peckovers of Concord, ON. They supply brass in coiled strip, which we then run through our punch press to stamp out the blanks. Our most important marketing strategy is to continue to offer the consumer a top quality spoon at a very fair price that catches fish better than any of our competitors. I trust this answers your questions. We are happy to see young urban people interested in sportfishing.

Visitor: Scott Abbott Location: Quilcene, Washington Scott asks: Hi, would you let me know if you have dimpled lures in half and five-eights ounce sizes and their prices? I bought one of your platinum spoons and it works very well for the silvers down here ( Quilcene, Wa.). Thanks, Scott Abbott Greg replies: The dimpled spoons can be viewed and are sold on our website www.LenThompson.com. Please be aware that dimpled spoons (10, 11, 13, and 16) are not offered in the Platinum Series color patterns. We love to hear from people like you who fish with Len Thompson for salmon. Because our lures are traditionally considered pike and lake trout baits, many people are unaware that our spoons provide an excellent method of catching river trout and salmon. Thanks for dropping the line. Should you have any other questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us again.

Visitor: Tyler Sylvester Location: Regina, Saskatchewan When fishing for pike, the fish will sometimes follow your Len Thompson up to the boat, and then turn away, rather than using the figure eight technique to get the fish to return, try a new retreive on the next cast. After casting and letting the spoon sink, reel for 3 seconds, stop and then pump the lure towards you twice and then repeat. The lure will fall back towards a following fish and then will be pumped away. The fish will usually become very agressive and chase down the spoon and smash it. Another advantage to this technique is that many fish will grab the lure during the pause. I hope this helps you put more fish in the boat, it has sure helped me.

Return to Previous Tips and Comments