The Pacific Shiner was a product of Army Air Corps veteran A.L. Gower. The Pacific Shiner was a hollow fish shaped metal bait. They were available in 1 3/4", 2 1/2", 3" and 4" sizes. Throughout the years Gowers manufacturing operation was based in California. Initially located in Malaga, then Burbank and by 1950 they relocated to Madera.
Pacific Shiners were available as early as 1939 and as late as 1950. It is likely that production ceased during the war years. Historic accounts show that Gower was involved in the making of Aircraft hand tools as early as 1939. This May 15 , 1939 envelope is one of the earliest Pacific Shiner advertising pieces I have come across. The envelope is addressed to National Sportsman. I can't help but wonder if this mailing had anything to do with Gower possibly advertising his bait in the magazine. I'll have to keep my out for any Pacific Shiner ads in the National Sportsman.
Best Regards,
Jim Jordan
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