G.M. Skinner

G.M. Skinner is a historic American fishing lure manufacturer regarded as one of the pioneers in the production of metal spinnerbaits and spoons in the United States. The company's products hold high collectible value due to their age and what was, at the time, innovative design.

The G.M. Skinner company was founded and based in Clayton, New York, USA.

 The company's active period dates back to the second half of the 19th century. Some lures and boxes feature patents dated, for example, 1874 or 1886 (specifically, the patent from May 18, 1886). This makes Skinner one of the oldest lure manufacturers.

Significance: The company made a significant contribution to the development of metal lures even before the widespread use of wooden plugs in the early 20th century.

G.M. Skinner is primarily known for its metal-constructed lures used for freshwater fishing, particularly for targeting musky and large bass 

Spinners: The company's primary product, known as the Spinner Bait or Fluted Spoon Bait. These were among the first commercially successful spinnerbaits. They were often large (up to 9 inches), intended for trophy fish.

Spoon Lures: The company also produced various metal spoons, which could be nickel-plated or silver, sometimes marked as the "G.M. Skinner Fluted Spoon".

Construction: Lures often featured markings like "CLAYTON NY PAT USA CANADA 1874" or "G.M. Skinner Clayton, N.Y. Patented May 18, 1886", highlighting their patent protection and manufacturing location.