Z-Man announced this week that it's been issued a third patent for its ChatterBait bladed jig.
United States Patent No. 9,253,967 (the ‘967 patent) is entitled “Snag-Resistant Fishing Lure and Method for Making and Using" and covers the design of the ChatterBait. It joins two previously issued utility patents and continues to protect the direct head-to-blade connection and erratic vibrating action exclusive to ChatterBait brand lures.
"The ChatterBait bladed jig’s profound impact on tournament bass fishing demonstrates that the efforts we’ve taken to protect this groundbreaking invention via the patent system are warranted,” said Z-Man president Daniel Nussbaum. “While patents are sometimes a foreign concept to anglers and even tackle industry professionals, receiving multiple patents stemming from a single invention is commonplace in other industries and exemplifies how the patent system can encourage innovation and reward innovators, as well as companies like Z-Man that invest in taking the proper steps to protect their innovations.”
Ron Davis Sr. invented the ChatterBait and initially manufactured baits in his garage in Greenwood, S.C. Following dramatic tournament success in the spring of 2006, demand for Davis’ product exploded, far exceeding what he was capable of supplying. Davis then sought out the assistance of Z-Man, another South Carolina business and his silicone skirt supplier.
Z-Man began manufacturing, marketing, and distributing ChatterBait brand products and eventually expanded the product line. Unlike many other lure inventors and small-scale manufacturers, Davis had the wherewithal to take the steps required by law to protect his invention and brand via the United States Patent and Trademark Office, resulting in valuable ChatterBait intellectual property that he sold to Z-Man in 2008.
