Hay

Hay Manufacturing Company operated from 1231 Milwaukee Avenue in Racine, Wisconsin, during a period spanning the late 1940s to the mid-1950s. The company specialized in the production of various metal lures, including spoons and spinners with distinct structural features. Their manufacturing output included models such as the TAILS, FIN-SPIN, and FIN TAIL.

The earliest identified lure in the company's catalog was a metal spoon simply named TAILS. This 3-1/2 inch fish-shaped model featured red faceted plastic eyes. Unlike later releases, it was distributed on cardboard backing rather than in plastic boxes. Historical notes on the packaging indicated that the design was passed from Native Americans to commercial fishermen in the Fox River Valley.

The FIN-SPIN was a metal spinner known for its chrome finish and rotating design. The original version measured 4-1/8 inches and featured a three-sided body with a tail twisted in opposite directions to facilitate rotation. In the 1950s, the design was modified to a V-shaped profile with two wings instead of three. This model was produced in 4-1/8, 2-7/8, and 2-1/8 inch sizes and came equipped with a feathered treble hook.

The FIN TAIL lure measured 2-3/4 inches and was characterized by a rounded front and two long, upward-curved forked tails. This model included a French-made Luxon line connector but was sold without hooks, allowing for individual terminal tackle selection. It was packaged in plastic boxes with identification inserts and was produced in finishes such as brass, nickel, chrome, black, silver iridescent crystal, and a red-and-white diagonal stripe.

The MUSKY FIN TAIL was designed for larger specimens and measured 4-1/4 inches. This lure featured a full-bodied fish shape ending in a sharp, forked tail. It was constructed from solid copper or finished in chrome, with red plastic eyes secured by a transverse wire passed through the head of the lure.