Crippled Alewive Lure
The Legacy of BFG Tackle and the Crippled Alewive
History and Origins
The BFG Tackle Crippled Alewive Lure Company has been a fixture of the American fishing industry since 1930. For over 80 years, the company has operated from the shores of the Chesapeake Bay, specializing in handcrafted lures for saltwater environments. The brand is closely associated with the Griffin family (specifically Bill Griffin), who maintained the tradition of manual production for generations.
The Signature Product
The company’s reputation was built on The Crippled Alewive Spoon.
Design: Its primary feature is a patented off-center curve.
Action: This specific geometry causes the lure to oscillate in the water, accurately imitating the erratic movement of a wounded (crippled) alewife or minnow.
Durability: Unlike mass-produced freshwater lures, these were engineered as "tough" weedless spoons specifically for saltwater use.
Specialization and Target Species
The company developed a range of heavy-duty gear to meet the needs of offshore and bay anglers:
Product Range: Tandem spoon rigs, umbrella rigs, spire head jigs, and offshore dredge teasers.
Target Species: While highly effective for Rockfish (Striped Bass) in the Chesapeake, they are staples for offshore fishing targeting Tuna, Marlin, and Dolphin (Mahi-Mahi).
