After designing several types of prototypes back in 1996, we came up
with a working model. A basic prototype of sheet metal, square metal rod, and some PVC plastic pipe.
We had solved the problem we wanted to solve. An angler using our
fish-n-chums can tend two rods that can be easily reached, without moving his or her center of gravity, or rocking the
boat. This a basic idea and the prototypes we came up with do that job very well. If that is all they would do, that would be fine, but they do so much
more. After field testing our prototypes we were amazed at the sensitivity of the outside of the shin. Even small light nibbles
could be felt, even through heavy pants. And that wasn't all, instinctively after feeling a hit my leg would somehow react to
set the hook. This was fantastic, we never dreamed of this. We experimented with our
prototypes, and thought we would document what they can do with
photographs.
Showing Movement Reaction
These photos show that with a small amount of effort of the leg being raised, a
substantial amount of force can be put to the rod tip.
Extraction
The rod can be
removed without moving the center of gravity. When the leg is rotated forward,
the rotation brings the rod to the hand.
Jigging Or Chumming
With
the heel being raised up and down, the reaction of the rod tip is similar.
This in a fishing term, is called jigging the bait, or
chumming the fish.
Setting A Hook
There are various ways of setting
a hook with a fish-n-chum. We have used them, and they are proven.
The action of the leg twisting up causes a reaction on the rod tip.