James L. McDonald, AIA

As a kid growing up in Texas, I spent a lot of time fishing, hunting and collecting lures. I always kept a box full of lures for fishing and another box of lures “just for looking-at”. Back then; my father thought I was wasting my hard earned cash. Now he thinks differently after witnessing some of the collector’s values listed for lures in my collection.

Other interest I have maintained all of my life are wood crafting, art and design. In middle and high school I won several awards for woodworking and architectural designs. I later went on to become a registered architect here in Texas and continued woodworking as a hobby. I typically built furniture (married w/ kids, could’nt afford to buy it!), carved modern sculptures and crafted various items for gifts, etc.

It has taken until I’m in my forties to figure out that I could combine my love of fishing, design and wood crafting into one hobby……….LURES! I have currently crafted over 200. Some original designs, some reproductions and some made it to the trashcan! Much like the buildings I design, I first sit down and design them on paper to full scale. I incorporate templates and fixtures to maintain uniformity when crafting multiple lures of the same design. I finish the lures in the traditional paint color schemes and in some cases when using exotic woods, left them natural.

If you are into this craft, I can offer one word of advice…”patience”. If you do not achieve your goals the first time, slow-it-down and try again. I have ruined many lures before getting it right. Usually from rushing a process or experimenting with various finishes.

Good luck to all and keep the woodchips flying!

These are some examples of my work. If you like my work and would like to order some lures please email me.

E-MAIL James McDonaldWith questions and orders.