FIELD

The present invention relates to a device for triggering an automatic strike action in a fishing rig.

BACKGROUND

Fishing is a popular recreational pastime. Rod anglers will cast a weighted and baited hook attached at the end of a nylon line or similar into a lake or river, and wait for a fish to take the bait. Once the fish has taken the bait and the hook is in the mouth of the fish, this can usually, but not always, be seen, or felt by the angler via ‘tugging’ on the line and the rod. At this point, having felt or seen the bite, the angler will move their rod in order to pull the ‘rig’ (the hook and line/braid at the end of the fishing line) further into the fish’s mouth, and ‘hook’ the fish.

However, anglers who use fishing weights/fishing lines often face the issue of not knowing for sure when a fish has taken the bait. It is common for fish to take the hook and bait into their mouth, and then reject the bait/hook, without the angler receiving any sort of indication of a ‘bite’ at the fishing rod end of the line.

In this specification where reference has been made to patent specifications, other external documents, or other sources of information, this is generally for the purpose of providing a context for discussing the features of the invention. Unless specifically stated otherwise, reference to such external documents is not to be construed as an admission that such documents, or such sources of information, in any jurisdiction, are prior art, or form part of the common general knowledge in the art.

SUMMARY

It is an object of the present invention to provide a device for triggering an automatic strike action in a fishing rig which goes some way to overcoming the abovementioned disadvantages or which at least provides the public or industry with a useful choice.

The term “comprising” as used in this specification and indicative independent claims means “consisting at least in part of”. When interpreting each statement in this specification and indicative independent claims that includes the term “comprising”, features other than that or those prefaced by the term may also be present. Related terms such as “comprise” and “comprises” are to be interpreted in the same manner.

As used herein the term “and/or” means “and” or “or”, or both. As used herein “(s)” following a noun means the plural and/or singular forms of the noun.

Accordingly, in a first aspect the present invention may broadly be said to consist in a device for triggering an automatic strike action in a fishing rig, comprising: a first body and a second body, the first and second bodies configured for connection to one another such that they can move relative to one another between a first position and a second position; an elastic means configured to connect between the first and second bodies, in the second position the elastic means stretched away from its neutral state and configured so as to exert force to move the first and second bodies towards the first position; a trigger mechanism configured to hold the first and second bodies in the second position, and to release to allow the elastic means to contract when there is a strike on the fishing rig.

In an embodiment, the first and second bodies comprise substantially cylindrical sections, the second body section configured to fit and slide within the first body section.

In an embodiment, the first and second body sections have a mutual central axis, and move relative to one another along the central axis.

In an embodiment, the elastic means comprises a coil spring.

In an embodiment, the trigger mechanism comprises at least one elongate member connected to the second body by a first end, the second end of the elongate member free, the first body further comprising at least one corresponding latch section, the latch section and second end configured for mutual releasable engagement so that when engaged, the first and second bodies are held in the second position.

In an embodiment, the at least one latch section comprises a cut-out in the first body, the second end comprising an inner locking section configured to locate into the cutout to retain the second end in engagement with the first body.

In an embodiment, the second end further comprises an inwardly-angled hook section, the inner locking section and an outer guard section formed on the outer surface of the hook section, the outer guard section and inner locking section separated by a gap.

In an embodiment, the outer guard section and inner locking section are substantially parallel to one another and the body of the elongate member. In an embodiment, the at least one elongate member is angled outwards from the second body in a neutral state when not engaged with the latch section, the at least one elongate member pivotable inwards to engage with the latch section and configured to return to the neutral state when not engaged with the latch section.

In an embodiment, the latch section and second end are configured so that when engaged with the first and second bodies in the second position, further tension applied to the elastic means causes the latch section and second end to disengage.

In an embodiment, the at least one elongate member comprises a pair of elongate members, and the cut-out section comprises a pair of cut-out sections.

In an embodiment, the device for triggering an automatic strike further comprises a pair of swivel eye assemblies located one each at or towards the outer ends of the first and second bodies, each assembly having an outwards-facing swivel eye, the assemblies configured so that the outwards-facing swivel eyes can swivel freely relative to the bodies.

In an embodiment, the swivel eye assemblies are recessed into the first and second bodies, the swivel eye assembly at or towards the free end(s) of the elongate member(s) recessed more deeply than the swivel eye assembly at the opposed end.

In an embodiment, the device for triggering an automatic strike further comprises at least one ridge on the first body, running at least partly around the body and configured to assist a user in positioning tape or similar on the body to hold the at least one elongate member in position during casting.

In an embodiment, the device for triggering an automatic strike further comprises a length of braid connected between the first and second bodies.

In an embodiment, the device for triggering an automatic strike further comprises an integral weight.

In an embodiment, the integral weight comprises a casing configured to substantially enclose the trigger body, the ends of the trigger arms extending from the casing.

In an embodiment, the first body section is configured to act as a latch section, the second body comprising a cutout section configured to receive the free end of the elongate member, the free end enclosed within the main body.

In an embodiment, the second body section is hollow, the elastic means running within the hollow body and connected internally to the second body section at an outer end, and to a length of line at the inner end, the length of line running through the first body section, a stop member connected at or towards the inner end, the inner side of the elongate member shaped so as to receive and cradle the stop member and to extend partly around the stop member to prevent movement of the stop member towards the outer end of the second body section.

In an embodiment, the at least one elongate member is angled outwards from the second body in a neutral state when not engaged with the latch section, the at least one elongate member pivotable inwards to engage with the latch section and configured to return to the neutral state when not engaged with the latch section.

In an embodiment, the latch section and second end are configured so that when engaged with the first and second bodies in the second position, further tension applied to the elastic means causes the latch section and second end to disengage.

In an embodiment, the device for triggering an automatic strike further comprises a cage feeder connected to the second body.

In a second aspect, the invention may broadly be said to consist in a fishing rig comprising a device for triggering an automatic strike action as claimed in any one of the preceding statements.

In a third aspect, the invention may broadly be said to consist in a device for triggering an automatic strike action in a fishing rig, comprising: a length of elastic material configured to stretch from, and recoil to, a neutral state; a stiff elongate member having a length greater than that of the length of elastic material in the neutral state, the stiffness of the elongate member and strength of the elastic when stretched to the length of the elongate member mutually configured such that the elongate member will remain substantially undeformed when connected to the stretched elastic material at or towards each end; first and second attachment positions, configured to connect in line in a fishing apparatus, between the hook and the reel; the attachment positions and length of elastic material mutually configured for connection to one another, the length of elastic material connected at each end of the length of elastic material to the first and second attachment points so that the material extends between the attachment points; the stiff elongate member coupled to the first attachment point, the elongate member and second attachment point configured for releasable connection; the stiff elongate member, second attachment point, and length of elastic material further mutually configured so that the elongate member and second attachment point will release from the connection when the length of elastic material is stretched beyond the length of the elongate member. In an embodiment, the length of elastic material comprises a length of silicone rubber.

In an embodiment, the first attachment position comprises a first swivel assembly, the first swivel assembly comprising first and second swivel eyes connected to one another so as to freely swivel relative to one another in use, the first swivel eye configured to in use allow the attachment of the end of a length of fishing line.

In an embodiment, the second attachment position comprises a second swivel assembly comprising a main body with a weight attachment point configured to allow attachment of a weight, a line attachment point configured to allow connection of the end of a main length of fishing line, and a swivel eye configured to freely swivel relative to the main body.

In an embodiment, the stiff elongate member comprises a rod.

In an embodiment, the rod is formed from carbon fibre.

In an embodiment, the rod is tapered at a first end, the first end configured to locate into the second swivel eye, the main body of the rod configured so that it cannot fit through the swivel eye.

In an embodiment, the rod comprises a bulge at a second end, the bulge having an hourglass shape in side view.

In an embodiment, the device for triggering an automatic strike action further comprises a length of line connecting between the attachment points, the length of the length of line greater than that of the stiff elongate member.

In a fourth aspect, the invention may broadly be said to consist in a fishing rig comprising a device for triggering an automatic strike action as claimed in any one of the preceding statements.

With respect to the above description then, it is to be realised that the optimum dimensional relationships for the parts of the invention, to include variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and manner of operation, assembly and use, are deemed readily apparent and obvious to one skilled in the art, and all equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the drawings and described in the specification are intended to be encompassed by the present invention.

This invention may also be said broadly to consist in the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated in the specification of the application, individually or collectively, and any or all combinations of any two or more said parts, elements or features, and where specific integers are mentioned herein which have known equivalents in the art to which this invention relates, such known equivalents are deemed to be incorporated herein as if individually set forth.

Therefore, the foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the invention. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown and described, and accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to, falling within the scope of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

Further aspects of the invention will become apparent from the following description which is given by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings which show an embodiment of the device by way of example, and in which:

Figure 1 shows a view of a fishing rig that includes an embodiment of the device of the present invention, the fishing rig comprising a hook and hair rig attached at one end of the device via a short length of line, and a weight at the other end, a main length of fishing line extending from the weight end back to a rod (not shown).

Figure 2 shows a close up of the embodiment of the device shown in figure 1 set and ready for use, the device comprising a rigid rod, a length of elastic, and a length of fishing line connected between swivel assemblies at each end, the elastic and line permanently connected between the swivel assemblies, a first end of the rigid rod permanently connected to the first swivel assembly, a second end of the rod detachably connecting in use to the second swivel assembly, the elastic stretched and taut in the ‘use’ position.

Figure 3 shows a close up from another angle of the embodiment of the device shown in figures 1 and 2, set and ready for use.

Figure 4 shows the embodiment of the device of the present invention from the same angle as figure 3, the device shown in an unset state, with the second end of the rod unconnected to the first swivel assembly, the elastic slack or loose in this position.

Figure 5 shows a perspective view from above and to one side of a device for triggering an automatic strike action according to a second embodiment of the invention, the device shown in a non-ready/un-cocked/unarmed state.

Figure 6 shows an exploded view of the device of figure 5 from the same angle. Figures 7a - 7c show side views of the device of figures 5 and 6, figure 7c showing a cutaway view along the line A-A of figure 7b.

Figures 8a - 8c show side views of the device of the previous figures in a ready for use, or armed/cocked state, figure 8c showing a cutaway view along the line A-A of figure 8b.

Figures 9a - 9e show side views of a third embodiment of the device of the present invention, the device shown as it would be as it is prepared for use in figures 9a and 9c, in a cocked or armed state in figures 9d and 9e, and in a discharged or triggered state in figure 9b, with figures 9b and 9c showing cutaway detail along the line B-B shown in figure 9a.

Figure 10 shows a perspective view from the side and towards one end of a fourth embodiment of the device of the present invention, the device substantially the same as the second embodiment, but further comprising an integral weighted casing, the device shown armed ready for use.

Figures 11a and 11b show side views of the device of figure 10.

Figure 12 shows a cutaway side view from the same angle as figure 11a, along the line A-A shown in figure 11b.

Figure 13 shows a cutaway side view from the same angle as figure 12 of the device triggered or fired.

Figure 14 shows a side view from the same angle as figures 12 and 13 of the device of the fourth embodiment with the casing not present, the device shown in the armed state or position.

Figure 15 shows a side view from the same angle as figures 12 and 13 of the device of the fourth embodiment with the casing not present, the device shown triggered or fired.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments of the invention, and variations thereof, will now be described in detail with reference to the figures.

First Embodiment

A first embodiment of device 1 for triggering an automatic strike action in a fishing rig (detecting a fish bite) is shown in figures 1 to 4. The device 1 is shown in figure 1 as part of a fishing rig that is connected via a main fishing line 8 to a fishing rod. The fishing rig comprises a weight 7, hook 2 and hair rig 3, with the device 1 located between the hook 2/hair rig 3, and the weight 7. The hair rig 3 and hook 2 are substantially co-located and are connected to one end of the device 1 via a short length of line 4, and the weight 7 is connected to the other end of the device 1 so that it is substantially co-located with the outer end of the main fishing line 8 (that end away from the reel (not shown)). The main fishing line 8 runs between this end of the fishing rig and a rod.

In use, the weight 7 keeps the fishing rig suspended and extended in the water with the weight 7 at the lower end. As outlined above, the hook 2 is co-located with the hair rig 3. The main line 8 extends from at or close to the weight 7 to a rod. The reminder of the rig extends between the hair rig 3/hook 2 and weight 7.

As shown in figures 2 and 3, the device 1 in this embodiment comprises a rigid rod 9, a length of elastic material 10, and a length of anchor line 11.

The rod 9 is a stiff elongate item, formed from plastic or carbon fibre or any other similar material. The anchor line 11 is longer than the rod 9 by a small amount, roughly 20-25% greater than the length of the rod 9. The length of elastic 10 is of a length so that it needs to be stretched in order to be the same length (or a greater length) than the rod 9.

The elastic material 10 comprises silicone rubber or similar having the property of being able to stretch/extend from, and recoil to, a neutral state. Although an elastic material is preferred, any similar material or mechanism could be used, such as for example a metal spring.

The rigid rod 9, length of elastic 10, and length of anchor line 11 are located between a first swivel assembly 5 and a second swivel assembly 6, at what are in use (when in the water) the upper and lower ends of the device respectively. The first and second swivel assemblies 5 and 6 act as attachment positions for the rigid rod 9, length of elastic 10, and length of anchor line 11.

Weight 7 is attached to the body of the second swivel assembly 6, the main length of fishing line 8 connected to and extending back from the body of the second swivel assembly 6 to a fishing rod (not shown). The hook 2/hair rig 3 are connected to the first swivel assembly 5 via the short length of line 4.

The upper or first swivel assembly 5 comprises a pair of swivel eyes adjacent to one another, and connected to one another so as to be able to swivel relative to one another. The short length of line 4 is connected to the outer (upper) one of the eyes, and the length of elastic 10 and length of anchor line 11 to the inner swivel eye. The free end of the rod 9 engages with the inner swivel eye in the manner described in detail below. The upper swivel assembly 5 is configured so that the swivel eyes freely rotate relative to one another, so that the length of line 4 does not twist and/or tangle with the other elements in use.

The lower or second swivel assembly 6 comprises a main body with an attachment point configured to allow attachment of the weight 7 close to the main body. The main line 8 is connected to the outer end of the main body (the lower end in use).

The second swivel assembly 6 further comprises a swivel eye that is connected to and extends from the inner end of the main body, and which can freely swivel relative to the main body.

The rod 9, length of elastic 10, and length of anchor line 11 are connected to the swivel eye of the second swivel assembly 6 as described below.

The length of elastic 10 and length of anchor line 11 are each connected at one of their ends to the inner-facing eye of the first swivel assembly 5, and at their other ends to the swivel eye of the second swivel assembly 6. These connections can be made in any suitable manner, such as for example by splicing, using a connector, or even tying. These connections are intended to be non-detachable in normal use

The rod 9 is permanently connected to the second swivel assembly 6 at one end, so that the connected end is directly adjacent to the swivel eye of the second swivel assembly 6. The connection is formed in such a manner that the end of the rod will stay next to the swivel eye, but so that the remainder of the rod can move freely, and the rod can rotate with the swivel. As shown in figure 3, in the preferred embodiment this is achieved by using a rod 9 that has a bulge at the end of the rod 9, with a ‘waist’ formed in the bulge so that in side profile the bulge at the end of the rod 9 has a generally ‘figure of eight’ or hourglass shape. A connector element such as a length of wire passes around the ‘waist’ and connects the rod 9 to the second swivel assembly 6, the connector held in place at the ‘waist’ of the bulge and prevented from slipping along the rod 9 by the bulges each side of the waist. The rod 9 can therefore rotate with the second swivel assembly 6 and move/bend relative to the second swivel assembly 6.

As shown in figure 4, when in a slack or ‘not set’ state, the first and second swivel assemblies 5, 6 are connected via the length of elastic 10 and length of anchor line 11. The rod 9 is held at one end as described above, but otherwise free to move. When a user wishes to ‘set’ the apparatus, they grasp and pull the rig so as to extend the elastic 10 and put this in tension. The free end of the rod 9 is then inserted into the inner/closer one of the swivel eyes on first swivel assembly 5 (that swivel eye which is not attached to the short length of line 4). The main body of the rod 9 is sized so that it is too thick to fit through the swivel eye, but the free end of the rod 9 is slightly tapered or pointed so that it will fit into the swivel eye. As outlined above, the length of line 11 is longer than the rod, so the length of the line 11 does not interfere with this process.

A user then releases the rig to ‘set’ it. The elastic 10 will attempt to release the tension within itself by contracting. This pulls the inner/closer one of the swivel eyes on first swivel assembly 5 onto the rod 9, so that the tapered tip is held in position within the swivel eye, and the swivel eye is held onto the rod 9. As noted above, the elastic 10 needs to be stretched in order to reach the same length as the rod 9, and therefore the rigid nature of the rod 9 will now keep the elastic 10 in tension, stretched along the length of the rod 9, with the tip of the rod 9 is retained in the swivel eye. The device is now ready for use.

As noted above, once the rig is cast and is in the water, the weight 7 will keep the fishing rig suspended and extended in the water with the weight 7 at the lower end.

If a fish takes the hook 2/hair rig 3 into it’s mouth, this will pull on the hook 2 sufficiently to transmit a pulling force to the elastic 10 via the short length of line 4 and the swivel assembly 5. This pulling force slightly stretches the elastic 10, stretching it sufficiently to dislodge the tip of the rod 9 from the swivel eye. Once the rod is free, this allows the elastic 10 to fully contract. As the elastic contracts, this pulls the upper and lower parts of the rig (which are separated and connected via the device 1 as outlined above) together.

The force of the elastic contracting is sufficient to have the dual effect of tugging on the main line 11 , which will act to pull on the hook so that this hooks deeper within the flesh of the mouth of the fish, stopping the fish from being able to shake the hook out of it’s mouth. This will either also alert the person holding the rod that they have had a ‘bite’, or set off an alarm connected to the rod, which will alert the user.

The ‘recoil’ of the contracting elastic 10 is similar to the human hand pulling back on the hook underwater from a tensioned starting point. This motion helps to convert more pick-ups of the bait into landed fish for the angler, as the hook is more likely to be set deeper into the flesh of the fish that it would otherwise be, even before the angler strikes to set the hook. It helps eliminates a key moment where many opportunities are missed.

The strength and dimensions of the elastic 10 and the size of the rod 9 are set so that a fish taking the bait is likely to release the rod 9 before the fish has been able to shake the hook out of their mouths with the weight of the fishing weight. That is, that the rod will remain in position during casting and normal use, but will be released with minimal pulling force on the hook.

The length of anchor line 11 that runs between the first swivel assembly 5 and second swivel assembly 6, in parallel with the elastic, allows the angler to reel the fish in without risking breaking the elastic. This non-extendible length of anchor line 11 will only allow the elastic to stetch to a certain point before the line 11 becomes fully taut, which prevents the elastic 10 from over-stretching and breaking.

The present invention mimics the ‘strike’ action of an angler (pulling on the rod to pull the hook into the mouth of the fish) without the angler needing to actively do anything, once the device is set and active. The recoil on release mimics the movement of the human hand on a strike.

This device can be positioned between any point from or including the fishing weight and the hook.

The length and strength of the elastic 10, and the length and dimensions of the tip of the rod 9, can be set as required to alter the triggering force to that required for a particular fishing set up, from a very light set up where very little force is required to activated or trigger the rig, to a heavier set up requiring more force.

Second Embodiment

A second embodiment of device for triggering an automatic strike action in a fishing rig is shown in figures 5 to 8.

The device 100 of this embodiment comprises two main parts: a first/main body 101 , and a second/trigger body 102.

The main body 101 is generally cylindrical in appearance, and hollow with one open end.

The trigger body 102 comprises a central body section 103 that is mutually configured with the main body 101 so that the central body section 103 can slide into the open end of the main body 101, and fit substantially fully within the main body 101. A flange 105 is located towards the free end or outer end of the trigger body 102 (that end that extends out from the open end of the main body 101), with a short section of the trigger body 102 extending from the free end/outer end of the flange 105.

A pair of trigger arms 104a, 104b are connected to the flange 105. The trigger arms 104a, 104b comprise elongate members that are connected on diametrically opposed sides of the flange 105, at/by one end of the trigger arm 104. The body of the trigger arm extends from the connection with the flange in the direction of the central body section 103 - that is, towards the main body 101 in use, with the outer end of the trigger arm free. The arms 104 are configured so that in their natural or neutral position, they are angled slightly away from the central body section 103. If pushed towards the central body section 103 (rotated inwards around their connection with the flange 105), they will be slightly in tension, and once the pushing force is released, will pivot back towards the outwardly-angled neutral position, around their connection with the flange 105.

A pair of swivel eye assemblies 107a, 107b are located one each at each end of the device 100, one on the main body 101 opposite the open end, and one at the end of the short section of the trigger body 102 that extends from the free end/outer end of the flange 105. The swivel eye assemblies 107 and the main and trigger bodies 101 , 102 are configured so that one eye of the two eyes of each swivel eye assembly locates into the body and it held in place by a screw 108 (swivel eye assembly 107a by screw 108a, and swivel eye assembly 107b by screw 108b), the screws 108 screwing into the body (e.g. screw 108b screwing into and through the short section of the trigger body 102 that extends from the free end/outer end of the flange 105. The other eye of each of the swivel eye assemblies extends/protrudes from the body when the swivel assembly is connected, and can swivel freely.

The central body section 103 of the trigger body 102 is hollow, with an open end that faces towards the main body 101 (that end away from the flange 105). A length of elastic material or an elastic means - in this embodiment the elastic material or means comprises an elongate coil spring 106 - locates into the hollow central body section 3 in use. The two ends of the coil spring 106 are connected to the inner ends of the swivel eye assemblies 107. The coil spring 106 is sized so that it is in tension, and when connected continuously pulls the main body 101 and trigger body 102 towards one another. The main body 101 further comprises a pair of indents or cut-out sections 109 close to the open end, and on diametrically opposed sides. These act as latch sections in use, as outlined below.

The free ends of the trigger arms 104a, 104b are configured to locate into the cut-out sections 109, so that with the spring 106 in tension, and no other force acting on the device 100, the trigger arms will remain in the cut-out section 109. In this position, the spring 106 is extended, and the trigger body 102 is nearly all of the way out of the main body 101. However, if the trigger body 102 is pulled slightly further out, then the trigger arms 104 will release from the apertures 109 and rotate or ‘spring’ outwards, towards their natural or neutral position. When the pulling force that has pulled the trigger body 102 outwards is removed, then the spring 106 will pull the trigger body 102 all the way into the main body 101. The trigger arms 104 are angled outwards in their natural or neutral position and so don’t present a physical barrier that would prevent this.

The free ends of each of the trigger arms 104 comprise an inwardly-angled hook section 110, which is angled so as to be approximately perpendicular to the main body of the trigger arm 104, and which extends inwards a short distance.

An outer guard section 111 and an inner locking section 112 are formed on the hook section 110, on the outer side of the hook section. Each of the sections 111, 112 has the general form of a flat plate, with the outer guard section 111 being larger/longer than the inner locking section 112. The inner and outer sections 111, 112 are separated by a small gap. The outer guard section 111 and an inner locking section 112 are substantially parallel to the body of the trigger arm 104 to which they are connected. In use, the inner locking sections 112 act to retain the arms in the inwards position until a strike, as described in detail below. The length of the inner locking sections 112 can be changed between different embodiments or models of the device 100, in order to change the force required to trigger a strike action. The strength of the elastic material can also be changed as required.

In use, a user will, for example, connect one end of the device 100 to a fishing rig in a similar manner to the device 1 of the first embodiment. That is, with the main fishing line 8 connected to one of the swivel eye assemblies 107b, with the weight 7 substantially directly adjacent to the swivel eye assembly 107b. In general, it will be most usual for a user to attach the main fishing line 8 to the same end as the weighted lead - e.g. swivel eye assembly 107b. The hook 2/hair rig 3 are connected to the other swivel assembly 107a via the short length of line 4.

As can be seen from figure 5, swivel eye assembly 107b protrudes further outwards than swivel eye assembly 107a, assembly 107a recessed further/deeper than assembly 107b. This protrusion, and the configuration of the arms 104 (free end away from assembly 107b), both help (either separately or in combination) to avoid tangling a connected line, both during normal use, and when the device is triggered.

It should be noted that the device can also be used the other way around, with the weights and lines connected to the other swivel eye assemblies. However, this is not preferred.

The device 100 can also be used with or without an anchor point - attached between two ends of fishing line - or the hook could be attached directly to the device at one end. This is useful if the device is used with just a handline.

A user ‘sets’ the device by pulling the trigger body 102 out from the main body 101 , and, once extended far enough, by pushing the trigger arms 104a, 104b inwards into the apertures 109. When the pulling force exerted is reduced sufficiently to allow the spring 106 to pull the trigger body 102 back towards the main body 101, the inner locking section 112 is inside the main body 101. The main body section 101 and trigger section 102 will move relative to one another for the height of the inner locking section 112, until the base of the gap between the inner locking section 112 and the outer shield section 111 meets that edge of the aperture that is furthest away from the open end of the main body 101.

The device 100 is now set, ready for use.

A user will fish as normal. However, if a fish ‘bites’ and the hook is in their mouth, then there will be a pull on the line. This will have the effect of pulling the trigger section 102 and main section 101 slightly apart, allowing the inner locking sections 112 to move free of the apertures 109. The arms 104 will move outwards towards their neutral outwardly-angled positions, and clear of the apertures 109. Because the arms 104 are no longer preventing the spring 106 from retracting, the spring 106 will then retract, causing the main body section 101 and trigger section 102 to pull towards one another. This mimics the ‘strike’ action of an angler (pulling on the rod to pull the hook into the mouth of the fish) without the angler needing to actively do anything. The recoil on release mimics the movement of the human hand on a strike. As noted above, spring 106 is a coil spring. This can be of different lengths and strength depending on the particular use, but in the preferred embodiment, this has a free, unextended length of 30mm and a diameter of just under 2mm. The spring rate is 0.028N/mm. The overall length of the device 100 when armed or set is approximately 5cm.

As noted above, the force required to cause a strike action can be changed in different variations of the device, by changing the dimensions of the inner locking sections 112 so that the bodies 101, 102 have to be pulled further apart in order to clear the edge of the aperture 109. The force required can also be altered by changing the strength of the spring 106. Either or both can be changed as required individually or in combination.

The body 101 further has a pair of ridges 120 running perpendicularly around the body 101 , around part of the circumference of the body 101. These are configured to assist a user in positioning PVA tape or similar on the body, once the device has been set ready for use. A user will wind the tape around the body, inside the grooves. The tape acts to hold the arms in position and keep the device set during casting, which can be vigorous and exert force on the device, leading to premature triggering. The tape prevents triggering during casting, and then dissolves once the device is in the water and not subject to casting forces, so that it acts in the manner described above.

In embodiments, a length of braid or similar (not shown) can be connected between the inner ends of the swivel-eye assemblies 107a, 107b (those ends inside the bodies 101 , 102), in parallel to the spring 106. The braid is intended to retain the elements of the device 100 together after a strike, without having to rely on the spring 106 to achieve this. A spring strength for a successful strike may be considerably less than that required for retaining the assembly together during the period after the strike, before the fish is landed. The braid is chosen so as to have a suitable length and strength to achieve this. The braid can comprise a braided line, a length of monofilament, or fluorocarbon, or any other form of material that would secure the device.

The devices as described in the two embodiments above, or any other embodiment of the invention, can be used as an addition to any fishing rig. These can be made or positioned within or external to, for example, a fishing weight, float, lure, fly or even attached directly just to a hook which is holding a live or dead bait, without a lure, float or weight present. This means that the invention could be used for freelining. The triggering device is extremely versatile and can be used in multiple types of fishing, and with or as part of any device where pulling on the line can trigger the device. This also includes commercial long line fishing.

The device can be formed from any suitable material, such as for example plastic. However, the static/outer parts of the device can be at least partly formed in any suitable manner, depending on the particular requirement for that embodiment. For example, these could be integrally weighted for fishing lower in the water, or formed to allow for floating baits on the surface.

Third Embodiment

A third embodiment of a device for triggering an automatic strike action in a fishing rig is shown in figures 9a to 9e.

The device 200 in this embodiment comprises two main parts: a first/main body 201 , and a second/trigger body 202.

In this embodiment, the main body 201 is generally cylindrical in appearance, with a domed or hemispherical outer end. The main body 201 is hollow, with the inner end open.

The trigger body 202 comprises an elongate cylindrical central body section 203 that is mutually configured with the main body 201 so that one end of the central body section 203 can fit within and slide a short distance into the open end of the main body 201. The first and second body sections have substantially the same outer diameter.

A flange 220 is located towards the mutually-connecting inner end of the trigger body

202, around the outside of the trigger body 202. The flange 220 acts as a stop, with the open inner end of main body 201 butting against the flange in use to prevent further movement of the central body section 203 within the hollow body of the main body 201.

A trigger arm 204 is connected to the central body section 203. The trigger arm 204 comprises an elongate member that is integrally formed with the central body section

203. The trigger arm 204 is integrally connected at a first end to the central body section 203, with the remainder or main body of the trigger arm 204 free. The arm 204 is configured to pivot or bend around the first end so that in a natural or neutral position it is angled slightly away from the trigger body section 203. If pushed towards the central body section 203 (rotated inwards around its connection), it will be slightly in tension, and once the pushing force is released, will pivot back towards the outwardly-angled neutral position. The trigger body section 203 and trigger arm 204 are configured so that in the position where the trigger arm 204 is fully pushed towards the trigger body section 203, the trigger arm 204 will fit snugly into a cut-out section on the trigger body section 203, substantially flush with the surface of the trigger body section 203.

The trigger arm 204 is located on the trigger body section 203 so that the outer or free end of the trigger arm 204 extends beyond the flange 220. Therefore, when the trigger arm 204 is fully pushed towards the trigger body section 203, and the end of the central body section 203 is fitted within and slid a short distance into the open end of the main body 201 , the free end of the trigger arm 204 will be enclosed within the main body 201 , with the trigger arm 204 in tension. That is, the main body 201 is configured to act as a latch section in this embodiment.

A swivel eye assembly 207 is located at the outer end of the trigger body section 203 - the opposite end from the end that engages with the trigger body 202. The swivel eye assembly 207 is configured to rotate freely in relation to the trigger body section 203, and for attachment to a length of fishing line such as for example line 8.

The central body section 203 of the trigger body 202 is hollow, with an open end that faces towards the main body 201. A length of elastic material or an elastic means (in this embodiment the elastic material or means comprises a length of elastic 206 but this could also be a coil spring or similar) locates into the hollow central body section 203 in use. A first end of the length of elastic 206 is connected inside the central body section 203, at or towards the closed outer end. The length of elastic 206 is sized so that in a neutral state, it will extend only part of the length along the inside of the hollow central body section 203. That is, the elastic 206 needs to be put in tension in order for it to extend the full length of the central body section 203. The second end of the length of elastic 206 is connected to a short length of line 4, which extends along the central body section 203, into the main body 201, and out of the main body 201 via an aperture in the top of the hemispherical outer end.

In this embodiment, the connection between the elastic 206 and the short length of line 4 is made via an attachment member 221. The attachment member 221 in this embodiment comprises a spherical element 221a and a swivel eye assembly 221b, arranged so that the spherical element 221a is towards the outer end of the central body section 203, with the swivel eye assembly 221b between the spherical element 221a and the open end of the central body section 203. The diameter of the spherical element 221a is sized so that it fits snugly, but can move freely within, the hollow central passage of the central body section 203. A second spherical element - stop sphere 222 - is located on the line 4 so that the swivel eye assembly 221b is between the stop sphere 222 and the spherical element 221a, with the stop sphere 222 connected to the line 4 a short distance along the line 4 from the stop sphere 222.

The closed outer end of the main body 201 is shaped internally so as to receive the stop sphere 222.

The inner side of the trigger arm 204 is shaped so as to receive and cradle the spherical element 221a, and to extend partly around the spherical element 221a.

In use, a user ‘sets’ the device by separating the trigger body 202 from the main body 201. They then pull on the length of line 4 extending from the aperture in the top of the hemispherical outer end of central body section 203, pulling this through the main body 201 until the stop sphere 222 is located against the closed end of the main body 201. This causes the length of elastic 206 to extend, and for the attachment member 221 to be pulled towards and through the open inner end of the central body section 203.

A user then pushes the trigger arm 204 inwards, and then pushes the main body 201 onto the top of the central body section 203 so that it ‘caps’ and closes the central body section 203.

The trigger arm 204 in the inwards position is in tension, but cannot move outwards as it is held in position by the main body 201 to its outer side.

As noted above, the inner side of the trigger arm 204 is shaped so as to receive and cradle one side of the spherical element 221a, and to extend partly around the spherical element 221a. Because the trigger arm 204 is held in the inwards position, spherical element 221a is also held in position within the main body 201 , and the elastic 206 cannot retract to release the tension in the elastic 206 and pull the spherical element 221a back into the central body section 203. The device 200 in this state is armed.

In use, a user will, for example, connect one end of the device 200 to a fishing rig in a similar manner to the devices 1 and 100 previously described. That is, with the main fishing line 8 connected to the swivel eye assembly 207, with a weight such as for example weight 7 substantially directly adjacent to this.

The hook 2/hair rig 3 are connected at the other end - e.g. via the length of line 4. It should be noted that the device can also be used the other way around, with the weights and lines connected to the other swivel eye assemblies. However, this is not preferred.

The device 200 is now set, ready for use, and a user will fish as normal. However, if a fish ‘bites’ and the hook is in their mouth, then there will be a pull on the line 8.

This has the effect of pulling the trigger body 202 and main body 201 apart. As the trigger arm 204 is no longer restrained in an inwards position, it rotates outwards about its inner end where it is connected to the central body section 203. Because the spherical element 221a is no longer held in place by the trigger arm 204, it can move freely, and the elastic 206 pulls the spherical element 221a back into the central body section 203.

This mimics the ‘strike’ action of an angler (pulling on the rod to pull the hook into the mouth of the fish) without the angler needing to actively do anything. The recoil on release mimics the movement of the human hand on a strike.

Elastic 206 can be of different lengths and strength depending on the particular use, in order to change the force required to cause a strike action.

The device can be formed from any suitable material, such as for example plastic. However, the static/outer parts of the device can be at least partly formed in any suitable manner, depending on the particular requirement for that embodiment. For example, these could be integrally weighted for fishing lower in the water, or formed to allow for floating baits on the surface.

This embodiment further comprises a cage feeder 260 connected to the central body section 203. The cage feeder 260 comprises a framework extending from the central body section 203 that can be packed with bait. A device having a single trigger arm is far more suitable for use with a cage feeder, as this allows the cage feeder 260 to extend around the central body section 203.

Fourth embodiment

A fourth embodiment of a device for triggering an automatic strike action in a fishing rig is shown in figures 10 to 15.

The device 300 of this embodiment is substantially the same as for the second embodiment, with all elements corresponding as shown on the figures - first/main body 301 corresponding to first/main body 101 in the second embodiment, trigger body 302 corresponding to trigger body 102, trigger arms 304a, 304b corresponding to trigger arms 104a, 104b, etc. In this embodiment, the elements are formed so that the overall length of the assembly between the swivel-eye assemblies 307a, 307b is shorter than that of the second embodiment, so that the device is more compact than the device 100 of the second embodiment.

The device 300 of this embodiment is intended for use with an integral weight 350.

As shown in figures 10 to 13, the integral weight 350 comprises a tapered casing that encloses the trigger body 302 of the device 300, and the swivel-eye assembly 307b. The main body 301 and the ends of the trigger arms 304 extend from the wider end of the casing. The main fishing line - e.g. line 8 - is connected to the swivel-eye assembly 307b and extends from an aperture at the tapered end.

Also as shown in figures 10 to 13, the device 300 differs from the device 100 of the second embodiment in that the trigger arms 304 have curved fins 321 that extend from the outer side of the trigger arms and curve towards the trigger body end of the device 300. The fins 321 are located at the point along the length of the arms 304 at the same point as the inwardly-angled hook section 310 on the inside of the arm.

The integral weight comprises recesses formed at the wider end, into which the curved fins 321 fit when the device is armed and ready for use. As shown in figure 13, when the device is fired or triggered, the fins move outwards away from the integral weight 350.

Operation of the device is otherwise substantially the same as for the device 100 of the second embodiment.