1920's Muskie MinnowMichiana antique fishing tackle collectors will be displaying decades-old items made by home-grown tackle manufacturers at the Niles Riverfest Aug. 3-5, 2012.

This 1920s Heddon Muskie Minnow was purchased by lure collectors at a previous Niles Riverfest. Although it had prop blades, it was weighted to run underwater and create a disturbance to attract muskies. (Photo by Doug Bucha)

In addition to showing their valuables made by the likes of the former Heddon, South Bend, Paw Paw, Creek Chub and Shakespeare tackle companies, the collectors are seeking any historical information people have from the pre-1970s era, including that about obscure smaller tackle manufacturers as well.

As they always do, the antique experts will offer free appraisals of any old gear you take to the Riverfest with no obligation to sell.

Other items of interest are paintings and prints of fishing from the late 1800s-early 1900s, hand-forged ice spears, wooden tackle boxes, creels and other antique fishing items.

The Riverfest runs 9-7 Saturday and 11-5 Sunday. For more info on antique tackle or the Riverfest display, call Doug Bucha, 269-683-0686.