Gapen

The Gapen Company  A Legacy of Wilderness Fishing Excellence

The Gapen Fishing Company, founded  1936 by the legendary Dan Gapen in Minnesota, is a cornerstone of American fishing history. It is a brand built on deep knowledge of fish behavior and rigorous field testing in the wild waters of North America.

The Gapen family is credited with the commercial success of the Muddler Minnow, a design that bridged the gap between fly fishing and lure fishing. Another staple is the Ugly Bug, a specialized hair-dressed head that remains a favorite for river anglers.

 Dan Gapen’s motto was to create lures that "catch fish, not fishermen." The focus has always been on functionality, natural action, and durability rather than flashy, unnecessary aesthetics.

 Gapen lures are particularly famous for their effectiveness in river systems and rocky bottoms. Their designs minimize snags while maximizing vibration and visual appeal in moving water.