The Charles Magin Collection of Lake Chautauqua Fish Decoys - Paperback

by Charles E. Magin (Author)

This book contains photos and descriptions of a collection of approximately ninety Chautauqua fish decoys, or minnows as they were sometimes called. Originally created for winter spear fishing on Chautauqua Lake, these fish decoys are old, rare, and fine examples of American folk art. Now, more than one hundred years after winter spearing on the lake was declared illegal, there is very little published information concerning these old treasures. The decoys in this collection, assembled over more than 25 years, include some unusual and unique examples of Chautauqua fish decoys including some of outstanding quality from makers including Harry Seymour, Edward W. Irwin, William A. Spooner, Andrew Carlson, Albert Heminway, E. G. Gleason, Harry Conroe, and Hall.

Author Biography

Charles Magin was born and raised in Rochester, NY and spent many weekends and summers at Sodus Bay. It was during those years that he learned the sport of fishing, including ice fishing. After graduating from high school, he spent three years in the U.S. Army, mostly stationed in Germany. Afterwards, he graduated from Rochester Institute of Technology with a BS in Photographic Science. He went on to reside in Paramus, NJ, then Brookfield, CT, and currently in Macedon, NY. His entire working career was within the photographic and printing industries, mostly in technical sales. After working for several manufacturers, he started his own business as an independent Manufacturer's Representative until he retired in 2012. When living in Connecticut near Candlewood Lake, much time was spent on the lake in both summer and winter. His favorite sport was ice fishing with rod and reel or tip-ups.