Fishing – trapping – and vermin destroying – Fishing – Signal devices
Reexamination Certificate
2002-06-04
2004-01-06
Ark, Darren W. (Department: 3643)
Fishing, trapping, and vermin destroying
Fishing
Signal devices
C043S017500
Reexamination Certificate
active
06671994
ABSTRACT:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to fishing and more particularly to a fishing bobber having a signaling device for indicating a strike.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
A variety of strike indicators have been used with various articles of fishing equipment. One is a light indicator operated by a battery. When a fish strikes, the light is turned on. Another common indicator is a flag, which is elevated when there is a strike on the line. The bobber described in my prior U.S. Pat. No. 6,397,510 which is incorporated herein by reference requires moving parts that close an electrical switch. Prior systems, moreover, are not always reliable, particularly when the fisherman is busy with other activities, is resting or in the fish house where the fishing equipment cannot be seen. Accordingly, there exists a need for a more highly effective indicator to let the fisherman know when there is a strike on the line even if he is occupied with other duties or is in an area where the fishing equipment cannot be seen.
In view of these shortcomings, it is a primary object of the present invention to provide an improved fishing bobber which is inexpensive, light in weight, rugged in construction, and with no moving parts, but yet will reliably signal the fisherman when there is a strike on the line without the need for a visible indicator.
Another object is to provide a way of actuating an indicator or signaling device by means of an electrical sensor as a part of the fishing bobber.
Yet another object is to provide an improved indicator for signaling a fish on the line which has no moving parts for operating a switch and yet can be adjusted to operate under different conditions and allows different bobbers to be easily distinguished from one another.
These and other more detailed and specific objects of the present invention will be better understood by reference to the following figures and detailed description which illustrate by way of example of but a few of the various forms of the invention within the scope of the appended claims.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The invention provides a fishing bobber having a strike-indicating signal producing transmitter, e.g. a radio transmitter, for transmitting a radio signal to the fisherman when there is a strike on the line. The bobber includes a bobber body adapted to float on a body of water. A fishing line is connected to it during use. The signal transmitter, which may be a lamp, an audible alarm or radio transmitter is supported by and preferably housed within the bobber. Operatively connected to the transmitter are a pair of probes or electrodes for actuating the transmitter. A sensing means is connected to the probes to detect a current passing between them in response to a fish exerting tension on the fishing line to thereby operate the signal transmitter so as to signal the fisherman, e.g. by broadcasting, a radio signal to alert the fisherman when a fish has struck the bait. One preferred form the bobber includes a pair of electrical probes, i.e. electrodes coupled through a sensing circuit for actuating the signal transmitter when submerged in water so as to permit an electrical circuit to be completed between the probes when the bobber is pulled down by a strike.
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Ark Darren W.
Harmon James V.
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