Fish decoy

[1] They have been prized as a form of folk art for as long as they have existed, but have gained popularity and collector value following the Great Depression era.

Round the middle of the fish-effigy is tied a small packthread; when at the depth of ten fathoms, where it is intended to be employed, it is made, by drawing the string and by the simultaneous pressure of the water, to move forward after the manner of a real fish.

Trout and other large fish, deceived by its resemblance, spring forward to seize it: but by a dexterous jerking of the string, it is instantly taken from their reach.

The line is often attached to the roof of the ice shanty (sometimes called a darkhouse or fish house), some other stationary object, or held with a jigging stick.

They have been a form of folk art for as long as they have been around, but since the Great Depression era they have especially begun to be valued and collected by makers and enthusiasts.

[4][2] Among notable 20th century fish decoy artists are Gordon Charbeneau, Abe De Hate Sr, Gordon "Pecore" Fox, Hans Janner Sr., David Forton, Yock Meldrom, Larry Joseph Peltier, Oscar W. Peterson, William Jesse Ramey, Tom Schroeder, Harry Seymore, Andy Trombley, and Ted Van DeBossche.