Lamar Wilson
Dallas County, Alabama
Hand Carved Fishing Lures
Lamar Wilson has spent many years refurnishing historic homes and furniture across Alabama's Black Belt region - from Furman and Oak Hill in Wilcox County to Marion in Perry County. A few years ago, he decided to find a smaller wood craft to occupy his time, so he ordered several fishing lure pattern books, practiced and perfected his techniques, and then set out to teach himself a new art. While lures are much smaller than the homes and furniture that have occupied much of his time, he says that making lures is the hardest craft he has ever done!
Each lure begins with a basic shape, which he then carves and whittles until it is the shape he desires. Once the shape is complete, he brushes and sprays several layers of paint, protects the paint with several coats of spar urethane, and finishes with appropriate hooks, weights, spinners, and feathers.
Some lures are arranged within a rustic wood frame, while others are sold individually. Each box is numbered on the back, and each lure is signed by the artist.
While he admits to being a recreational fisherman, he spends most of his time helping his four year old grandson learn to fish. He is content in knowing that his lures are being used and admired by competitive and recreational fishermen and women from across the state.
At this time, Wilson's lures are only sold at Black Belt Treasures Cultural Arts Center.