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The Quick History of the Five of Diamonds

5/25/2021

We often get asked why the Five of Diamonds(TM) pattern works so well.

Scientific studies indicate the rods and cones in different eyeballs affect the way things are perceived and it is believed that most fish species see colour. Our theory is that the contrast of red diamonds on a yellow background is very easy for fish to see. High visibility is important to any fishing lure’s success – it grabs attention encouraging the fish to investigate. After all, they don’t have anything more important to do.

Len Thompson himself was colour blind and could easily see yellow. The original Five of Diamonds was painted in yellow and black and first appeared on paper invoices in 1951. A silver and red was also offered but it was quickly swapped out in favour of the yellow and red.

Since then, we have added other Five of Diamonds patterns utilizing newer paint technologies such as UV (Ultra Violet) and Super Glow.

Yet, the yellow and red Five of Diamonds continues to be Len Thompson’s top seller. So much so, that we honoured the pattern by building the World's Largest Fishing Lure in Lacombe, Alberta in 2019.

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Fishing the Wild West Podcast

5/25/2021

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Host of Fishing the Wild West TV show hosted Brad and Jess on his new podcast which launched earlier this year.

Check out the episode links below as we talk about all the things including making lures, fishing, conservation and special projects.

Listen to Brad's Interview

Listen to Jessica's interview

If you're interested in Wes David's personal favourite sizes and patterns watch the Gear Talk video below.

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The Best of 2020

12/21/2020

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As we look back at an incredibly unprecedented and challenging year for all, we feel incredibly grateful for your support and for the good things that happened in 2020. Here's a list of 10 cool things that happened in the Len Thompson/Northern King world in 2020.

1. A special Meet & Greet

In January (before you-know-what hit) we exhibited at a show in Niagara Falls and got to meet up with Beverly Cahill – daughter of Northern King founder Pat Distafen. We’re so honoured to carry on the Northern King legacy.

2. Viral Video

Hunter Warford caught a beautiful Laker on a Len Thompson Five of Diamonds and the video went a little viral on Facebook. Seeing kids catch fish and make memories with our lures is one of the things we love most about what we do!

3. Getting our "Stock" on

With the help of Blindman Brewing, we were able to support a couple of different stocking programs. Learn more.

4. Fishing for Food Banks 2020

We launched the Fishing for Food Banks 2020 campaign and made our first $1,100 donation in May to the Lacombe Food Bank. In the end, the campaign raised over $24,000 and supported 29 communities across Canada.

5. O-fISH-ally THE WORLD'S LARGEST LURE

It’s official! Our Guinness World Record Certification application was approved and we loved seeing all of your photos with the World's Largest Lure.

6. New Road Side Attraction

We got a call requesting use of the Five of Diamonds® in another Alberta based monument installed at the Summer Village of Rochon Sands. The 8 meter Northern Pike replica can be found at Buffalo Lake, Alberta. We were honoured to be included in the project. Learn more.

7. Big THINGS SMALL TOWNS

Tamarra Canu with Big Things Small Towns visited us and shared our story of the World's Largest Lure. Check out the video.

8. FISHING & FAMILY

We went fishing! We hope you did too.

9. ROAD TRIP!!!!

We took a road trip delivering donations to 10 food banks in 9 communities over 8 days as part of the Fishing for Food Banks 2020 campaign. We recorded our adventure in a three part video series.

10. Every DAY WE HUSTLIN'

We added five new staff members to our team and made a lot of fish hooks this year. We couldn't do what we do without our incredible group of 23 in Lacombe, Alberta, Canada. Thank you again for supporting Canadian made!

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Len Thompson Christmas Gift Guide

11/25/2020

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via GIPHY

It's true what they say - when you buy local, we all do a little happy dance... Please visit your local tackle retailer to check out their in-stock Len Thompson, Northern King and True North products.

If you're looking for a few unique ideas for the angler in your life not available in store, we've also put together a list of ideas below. Simply click on the product image to shop.

Thank you for supporting our family business and dedicated staff of 21 people!

1. Customized Lure Kit - SOLD OUT

Add a custom message to the middle lure in our Christmas Kit! Design the lure yourself online or contact custom@lenthompson.com for assistance. Cost: $32.99 each.

2. Merry Christmas & Season's Greetings Lures and Christmas Tree Decorations

The perfect stocking stuffer and not available in store! Enough said. Cost: $5.39 - $5.99 each

3. Book & Hook

Don't let the "Fishing with Grandpa" title fool you, this children's book speaks to each and every angler who has ever taught a child how to fish (and the kids will love it too!) Written, illustrated and printed in Canada. Cost: $19.99 each

4. Made in Canada - Len Thompson T-shirt

Yes, we believe in supporting local too! These t-shirts are Made in Canada and decorated in house. Limited quantities available. New stock and designs are expected to launch Spring 2020. Cost: $24.99 each

5. Hats! Hats! Hats!

We have lots in stock and ready to ship. Cost: $29.99

OUR OTHER BRANDS

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Tips FOR Fishing with Kids

8/5/2020

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Taking children out fishing requires a lot of patience but can be extremely rewarding. The look on a child’s face when they catch a fish just can’t be topped. Here are a few tips to help make your next fishing adventure a success. Happy fishing!

Start early.

Getting your child excited about a fishing trip starts early. Show them fishing pictures and videos or take them to pick out a new fishing lure at the store. You can also get them involved by assigning a job. Ask them to help you re-spool your line or pack a picnic. These small steps can really help build anticipation.

Walk the walk.

Respect the environment. Pick up the garbage. Treat fish well. Kids are always watching your actions and by walking the walk, you are instilling a sense of responsibility and a respect for conservation that will last for years to come.

Location, location, location.

Do your best to set your child up for success. Choose a location that is easily accessible and where the chance of catching a fish is high (we know, this can be easier said than done). Remember, the typical child will not care about the size of the fish. The more action they see, the more likely they are to stay engaged in the activity! Kids and adults really aren’t so different in this way. Also, choose a location where there are a lot of opportunities for free play and discovery. If your child grows bored, encourage them to explore.

Keep it short.

Plan on keeping the trip short and positive, especially if your child is very young or new to the activity. Tired and restless kids may be discouraged to try fishing again so if your kid(s) are ready to call it a day, call it a day. Don’t worry, one day soon, your child will be begging for one last cast.

Don’t forget…

Safety first and remember the snacks. Snacks are very important.

Seriously. Don’t forget the snacks.