George Snyder, GS Reels

George Snyder, Paris, KY

George Snyder was a watchmaker and silversmith in Paris, KY. It is thought that he made fishing reels between 1820 and 1840. His reels resemble in some ways the early British reels available at the time. George Snyder reels are the most desireable of reels for reel collectors. The only markings on the reel that identify them as Snyder's are the initials "GS". George Snyder has been credited with making the first American multiplying (geared) reel.

The SNYDER Reel, No. 5 Size

Three SNYDER Reels, No. 4 and 2 Sizes

A SNYDER Reel

Photos of this Snyder Reel by Ray Carver

To see high quality digitized history of the Kentucky Reel on Google Books website, click on the links below.

Outing Magazine, Dr. Henshall's Evolution of the Kentucky Reel, Dec. 1900

Forrest and Stream Magazine, Interview with J. L. Sage, Jan. 1915

Forrest and Stream Magazine, Dr. Henshall's More About The Kentucky Reel, Feb. 1915

For any questions about antique fishing reels, lures or tackle, please feel free to Email or Call me. I always like to talk about old tackle.

Email me at: ron@luresnreels.com or Call me at: 407-496-7940

Thanks!

Ron Gast

P.O. Box 420703

Kissimmee, FL 34742-0703