Beaded Spoons- a Timeless Tale of Michigan’s Thumb
This publication of Foresight Fishing Media has been brought to you in part by Mike Mentor of Diamond Willow Custom Ice Fishing Lures and readers like you. Thank you!
The beaded spoon is a timeless tradition of historical and cultural context as it applies to the modern era of ice fishing. From what might look like a simple do-dad on the shelf or in the tackle box, the history and placement of these baits have a story to be shared. A legend centered around revolution, industrial, economic, and political in nature.
Ice fishing is deeply ingrained in the culture of Michigan’s Thumb region, where anglers share a passion to venture onto frozen lakes to target species like perch, walleye, and other gamefish. Among the many techniques employed, one stands out for both its effectiveness and historical significance—the use of Russian beaded spoons. These handcrafted lures, originating from Russia, have not only proven their worth beneath the ice but also hold a unique connection to the region’s immigrant history. Post-Russian revolution, immigrants sought after economic security by working in agriculture- specifically with their skills in growing root vegetables. In the 1920’s and 30’s there was an influx of Russian immigrants who came to Michigan’s Thumb area to work for in the sugar beat harvest for what would eventually become Pioneer Sugar.
The Origins of Beaded Spoons
Russian beaded spoons trace their roots to traditional fishing methods, where anglers crafted lures that combined metal spoons with glass beads to mimic the movement and flash of small baitfish. These lures were especially effective for ice fishing, as their design allowed for enticing jigging motions that could trigger aggressive strikes from perch and other species.
Local legend shares that these people were known to be secretive. They would arrive wearing big heavy coats and keeping to themselves, for concern that their approach to perch fishing would be known. Craftsmen and fabricators in the area caught wind when bait makers would go around in search for metal to use on their own creations. Their approach to using these active baits while covering water searching for active fish was a practice of efficiency that originated from their style of fishing. It was a mentality of survival and harvest from living in a geo-politically uneasy time and place.
The spoons themselves are often made of brass or copper, materials that create both flash and subtle vibrations in the water. The beads, traditionally made of glass, add color, sound, and an element of realism, making them highly attractive to fish in cold, clear water conditions. This lure-making tradition was passed down through generations in Russia and eventually found its way to the United States through immigrant communities. Eating utensils, tin cans, and other repurposed metal was shaped into a willow-leaf shape to imitate a swimming bait fish.
Immigration and the Thumb’s Sugar Beet Industry
The waters of Saginaw Bay and surrounding inland lakes provided these newcomers with familiar fishing opportunities, and they naturally applied the methods they had used in their homeland. The Russian beaded spoon, already a staple in ice fishing back home, quickly became a favorite among local anglers in the Thumb. Over time, these lures became a part of the region’s fishing culture, passed down through generations of both Russian-American families and other local anglers who recognized their effectiveness.
Mike Mentor is lifelong resident to the thumb area. He the proprietor of Diamond Willows Custom Ice Fishing Lures, where he keeps the tradition alive. The company ownership was transferred to him when Mr. Rich Ingatowski retired in 2021. Ingatoski being one of the recognized names in regional ice fishing tackle amongst Darren M. with the Slab Grabber, Ken from Kens Hooks, the late Mark Guster of Guster Hooks, and Art Best.
Means and methods may change, but tradition does not!
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Means and methods may change, but tradition does not! 〰️
What Mentor shares about what makes Diamond Willow unique is the size profile, offering a flashy and finessey presentation in shallow-moderate depths. Beaded spoons were traditionally larger at one time. This approach to fishing was used for large perch and gamefish in deep northern lakes around the eural mountains.
Diamond Willow baits are available in many different colors and finishes!
With handsmade craftsmanship, Diamond Willow spoons are made out of nickel, copper, and soldered silver bearing to a VMC hook. A 6mm bead is drilled out to encompass a 3mm different color bead to enhance the offering for. IN the early days of this bait, pieices of rubber, leather, or cloth were used to tip the hook. Traditionally, a barbless jack hook was used for efficiency in getting the fish off and getting back to fishing with a quickness.
Continued Relevance
Today, Russian beaded spoons remain a valuable tool for ice anglers targeting perch in Michigan’s Thumb. While modern variations exist, many fishermen still craft their own, adhering to the time-honored techniques brought over by early Russian immigrants. The combination of metal spoons and colorful beads continues to entice fish, proving that some of the best fishing innovations stand the test of time.
The presence of these lures in the Thumb is more than just a fishing tradition—it’s a testament to the enduring influence of immigrant communities on local culture. What started as a simple, effective fishing technique in Russia became a lasting part of Michigan’s angling heritage, thanks to the hardworking Russian immigrants who helped shape the region’s economy and traditions.
Foresight Fishing recognizes Mr. Mike Mentor for his time and efforts contributing to this article. Please consider patronizing his business for ice fishing baits. For those in the greater thumb area, he also operates Lawns in Order for landscaping needs. All photos shared are his property and have been used with expressed permission.
Diamond Willow Custom Ice Fishing Lures
Michael Mentor:
989-553-1735
Commercial/Residential
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