Hofschneider
Hofschneider Lures
The famous American spoon lure, the Red Eye Junior Wiggler, was invented in the mid-1920s by a dentist from Rochester, New York, Dr. Frederic Hofschneider. While working as a doctor, Hofschneider patented a lubricant – one of the first dental anesthetics. In 1932, he suffered a stroke and could no longer practice dentistry. His hobby saved him. He focused entirely on fishing lures. Thanks to him, the Red Eye emerged – a classic "spoon" that allows for the slowest retrieve, which is essential when fishing for pike sluggish from the summer heat. The bright, light-reflecting red eyes are sure to attract predators. The spoon is especially popular for pike and perch.
The company was founded by Hofschneider in the 1930s.
Hofschneider was one of the pioneers in developing lures specifically adapted for deep-water trolling in the Great Lakes.
Key Product: Redeye Wiggler / Redeye Spoons:
Redeye lures are elongated, metal spoon lures, but their uniqueness lies in the large, sometimes luminous, red eye that was believed to be a powerful visual attractant for predators in dark, deep waters.
Redeye spoons are known for their high-frequency, quivering action, which mimics a wounded or distressed baitfish, appealing to salmon (Chinook, Coho) and lake trout.
They became essential for deep trolling, often used with downriggers or heavy weights on lakes Erie, Huron, and Michigan.
Evolution and Ownership:
The Hofschneider company operated successfully for decades.
The Hofschneider Redeye brand was eventually acquired by Eppinger, but its legacy and original design endure.
Hofschneider lures, especially the Redeye, are icons of Great Lakes fishing and are valued by collectors as part of the golden age of trolling.
