Thread: Copyright Question

yes, you can get into trouble. most big bait companies have patents on their baits, not just one but several per bait on about every thing about the bait.There has been a few bait companies lately that have been going after the little guy's.

So how do you know if they have a copyright? I mean like tube baits. Everyone makes tubes.

Another along the same lines.....If the bait isn't an exact copy but is changed or modified can it still be called copyright infringement?

Originally Posted by mepperson

Another along the same lines.....If the bait isn't an exact copy but is changed or modified can it still be called copyright infringement?

it depends on what they have protected in their bait, if you change one thing but they have protected other parts of their design then you could still have them come after you. Best advise I could give is to design your baits, and dont copy others hard work and investment. cant get in to trouble if its all your design.

Go to U.S. Patent and Trademarks. But you will have a hard time finding a plastic tube or minnow. Basically you will have to patent the plastic and let them tell you if you can have sole ownership of that product but if you do get it,Well you have claim to it (but you cannot sue companies that have been making that product before your patent). Costs 300 to 5000 I guess to get it done. Legal discription and all. You can do a name search for products being sold at stores and see if they are active or none active patents on them. But you will see problems such as name changes and companies buying out other companies. Its like looking for a needle in a hay stack.

TT

the thing is, so many look so much alike that it is hard not to have something very similar and only certain kinds seem to be successful to some people for catching fish

if I ever get to live to retire I might want to sell some products for a little side hobby and cash lol

Originally Posted by crappieday

it depends on what they have protected in their bait, if you change one thing but they have protected other parts of their design then you could still have them come after you. Best advise I could give is to design your baits, and dont copy others hard work and investment. cant get in to trouble if its all your design.

I think you are correct but with all of the baits out there, it's hard to design something that doesn't have characteristics of something already made, especially since most baits are made to look like some natural prey. I was thinking about getting into it as a hobby and possibly some extra income when I retire, but I guess I'll just make my own to fish with and become a part-time male exotic dancer to make ends meet :D.