VISIT TO NILS MASTER 

Roberto Ferrario

During my visit to Finland last month I had the pleasure to visit the Finlandia Uistin Oy, the Finnish firm that produces the world famous Nils Master fishing lures.

Let's read about Nils Master's history: “In 1963 Hannu and Kalevi Kangas established enterprise manufacturing lures on their farm in Kalkkinen, famous for its fishing traditions and rapids. The two brothers in their twenties were fascinated by the emotions of fish and when whittling model lures from wood they realized what is essential in arousing the fish to strike. The appearence of the lure and its similarity to real fish is of little consequence. The most significant thing is the effect that is produced by motion and colours.

Finding the right patterns, action and colours one more irritating than the next have laid a good foundation for the success of the Nils Master product range that has lasted for decades. The first colours choices became permanent favourites. The four favourite colours of that time still top the sales list.

What helped Finlandia Uistin to a good start in addition to the popularitv of the first successful products was the fact that spinning was at that time very popular in America. People started to spend more and more leisure time on recreation fishing even in Finland.

More than 20 million lures have left the factorv in Kalkkinen in 40 years. At present they are used for fishing in 30 countries around the world the main markets being in Europe, North America, Far East, Russia and Australia.

Finlandia Uistin is still a family business cherishing hand craft and traditions of high quality. The company communicates with people taking an interest in fishing and pays attention to its customers' opinions and hints when developing lures.”

The current product range is versatile ranging from ordinary wooden lures, spoons to jigs. One of the current phenomenon seems to be that the basic lure of Finnish winter fishing, the balance jig is going through a renaissance. Its popularity is increasing. And its demand is not restricted to Scandinavia and icefishing, but it is in great demand in Australia, Russia and the United States.

Below we are happy to show Pescarte readers the complete working process of Nils Master lure production. Click  here or on the picture and check the steps!!

For more information about Nils Master, visit the web site www.nilsmaster.fi