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Lure History

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Legend, Lore & Legacy: Plastic Worm Inventor Changed Bass Fishing|March 2015| TPW magazine

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Latest Activity: Nov 4, 2025

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Lure Histories 7 Replies

Rubber Worms, Original Floating Rapala, Johnson Silver Minnow, Dardevle Spoons Abu Reflex spinners Hula Popper , Jitterbug .Just some of the Lures I've used to catch Fish since my youth. Johnson…Continue

Started by John Sheehan. Last reply by John Sheehan Jun 21, 2024.

Discontinued Lures

Some of my favorites I can't find anymore: Acme Flash King Wobbler Flutter Spoon, Manns Auger Tail Worm, Philips Crippled Killer, .....Continue

Started by John Sheehan Mar 27, 2024.

Plastic Worm varieties 11 Replies

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Started by John Sheehan. Last reply by John Sheehan Mar 24, 2024.

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Comment by John Sheehan on November 4, 2025 at 10:40am: Norman Crankbaits have been long time favorites!

Comment by John Sheehan on November 4, 2025 at 10:29am: left side top to bottom "SILENT', DD22/white /green fleck ...
Middle: ?.... DD22/Black splatter back,
right side: Deep little N Rainbow Trout, Tennessee shad, Brown craw

Comment by John Sheehan on November 4, 2025 at 6:55am: Wish I could help you, Bruce! Frustrating !

Comment by Bruce Tomaselli on November 1, 2025 at 2:32pm: This is what I've been seeing when I try to log in. I don't understand it. Help would be very much appreciated because I know I've been missed, hahaha!

Access blocked: FAOL Discourse Oauth’s request is invalid

btomas1822@gmail.com

Comment by Bruce Tomaselli on November 1, 2025 at 2:29pm: This is the first time in weeks I've been able to log in. I don't know what's going on here.

Comment by John Sheehan on November 1, 2025 at 11:32am: https://bass-archives.com/bill-norman-lures-catalog/

Comment by John Sheehan on November 1, 2025 at 11:12am

Overview of Bill Norman Crankbaits

Bill Norman is a significant figure in the fishing industry, known for his innovative crankbaits. His company, Norman Lures, was established in Greenwood, Arkansas, and became famous for producing high-quality fishing lures.

Key Developments in Crankbait History

Early Beginnings

Military Service and Early Career: After serving in the military, Norman transitioned from early jobs to pursue his passion for fishing.
Partnership with Wood Lures: He initially worked with Wood Lures, which produced wooden lures, before shifting to plastic lures in the late 1960s.

Establishment of Norman Lures

Founding of Norman Manufacturing: In the early 1970s, Norman founded his own company, Norman Manufacturing, coinciding with the rise of organized bass fishing and tournaments.
Innovative Designs: Norman introduced several popular crankbait models, including the Big N, Little N, and DD22, which became staples among anglers.

Impact on Fishing Culture

Sponsorship and Promotion

Pro Team Sponsorship: Norman was one of the first to sponsor professional anglers, using tournaments to showcase his lures.
Market Influence: His ability to predict trends in bass fishing helped shape the industry, making his lures widely recognized and sought after.

Collectibility and Legacy

Collectible Status: Original Norman lures are now considered collectible items, valued by both fishermen and collectors.
Continued Popularity: Many of Norman's designs remain popular today, with anglers relying on them for effective fishing.

Bill Norman's contributions to crankbaits have left a lasting legacy in the fishing world, influencing both the products available and the culture surrounding bass fishing.