Four Tees Bait Company - Joe's Old Lures

Four Tees Bait Company
Tampa, Florida

The Four Tees Bait Company was a small, family run operation that was started by William R. Bales of the Tampa area. He began making wooden lures by hand in the late 1930's. Operation of the company continued throughout the 1940's. The company name is taken from the logo The Topper That's Tops which appeared on the lure boxes. The Four Tees name is usually, but not always, painted on the belly of the lure. The lure name might also be seen painted on the belly. Staple wire clips are sometimes found at the front of the belly hooks to keep the hooks from going forward.

The lures shown here are part of our collection. Click on the thumbnail pictures to see a larger image

This is probably a one of a kind, as I have never seen or heard of another Four Tees lure in this paint pattern. The lure has Dolphin painted on the belly and the hooks have staple clip protectors.


The Four Tees Dolphin was made in two and three hook models in a variety of different colors.

Four Tees Bait Company also made a smaller lure known as the Cuke. It was painted in a variety of different colors. This one has Cuke painted on the belly.

We are always interested in adding to this collection. Please send an email if you have any old Four Tees lures or boxes for sale or trade.
Visit my page about Antique Florida Lures to see other lure makers from Florida.