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The landscape of fishing tackle and lure manufacturing on the West Coast has a rich history, intertwined with pioneering entrepreneurs and resilient businesses that have left an indelible mark on the community. Among these storied enterprises are PEETZ, renowned for its iconic Canada’s ORIGINAL Knuckle-Buster Salmon Trolling Reels and classic flashers and lures, and PAL, celebrated for its innovative PALCO trolling spoons and lures. Today, these brands are united under the PEETZ House of Tackle – a testament to enduring craftsmanship, innovation, and community resilience.
The Origins of PEETZ: From Humble Beginnings to Industry Staple
Founded over a century ago, PEETZ established itself as a trusted name in manufacturing high-quality fishing reels, flashers, and trolling lures. Known for their durability and innovative design, PEETZ products became a staple among salmon anglers along the Pacific Northwest and beyond. The iconic Knuckle-Buster Salmon Trolling Reels earned a legendary reputation among fishermen for their toughness and reliability, especially in the challenging conditions of the open water.
Over decades, PEETZ expanded its product line to include classic flashers and trolling lures, maintaining its commitment to quality and innovation. The company’s reputation was built on craftsmanship, with many of its reels and gear still prized by collectors and professional anglers today.
PAL and the Rise of PALCO: Pioneering Lure Craftsmanship
Parallel to PEETZ’s growth was the rise of PAL, particularly through the PALCO brand, which gained notoriety for its innovative trolling spoons. The PALCO lure company emerged as a leader in creating effective, visually appealing lures that helped anglers achieve success on the water. The PALCO spoons became a staple among local and international fishermen, renowned for their effectiveness and craftsmanship.
The 1993 Pallister Fire: A Turning Point in Sooke’s Fishing Community
On June 12, 1993, Sooke experienced one of its most memorable and devastating fires – the destruction of Pallister’s waterfront emporium, known as PALCO. Excerpts from Elida Peers’ account in the Sooke News Mirror describe the event as a “spectacular” blaze that seared into the collective memory of the community. The fire, ignited at the foot of Maple Avenue, consumed Pallister’s warehouse filled with salvage operations, lure manufacturing equipment, and a vast inventory of fishing gear.
The blaze was fueled by plastics, nylon nets, chemicals, acids, and lead – materials that not only intensified the flames but also created toxic smoke that posed serious public safety risks. The resulting hazard zone prompted evacuations of nearby homes, and brave firefighters, including those from Sooke’s volunteer department, faced significant danger. Seven firefighters required hospital treatment for smoke inhalation, underscoring the perilous nature of the incident.
Ed Pallister: The “Millionaire Junkman” and Innovator
Ed Pallister, a colorful and inventive figure, arrived in Sooke in 1956 with a fish-buying scow and a keen eye for salvage and innovation. His enterprise, PALCO, became a cornerstone of Sooke’s waterfront, renowned for its eclectic collection of salvage, tools, and custom lure manufacturing. Pallister’s machine shop produced a myriad of lures, earning recognition from San Diego to Ketchikan, and he became affectionately known as the “millionaire junkman of the Pacific.”
Despite the destruction of his emporium, Pallister’s resilience shone through. His business continued to operate in temporary facilities, thanks to the foresight of staff like bookkeeper Pat Shambrook, who preserved critical inventory records. Pallister’s ingenuity and perseverance helped sustain the legacy of PALCO and its contributions to Pacific Coast fishing culture.
From Ashes to Revival: The Resilience of the Brands
The 1993 fire marked a pivotal moment, but it also exemplified the resilience of Pallister’s enterprise. The community’s support and Pallister’s unwavering spirit enabled the revival of PALCO and its signature lures, which continue to be cherished by anglers today.
In recent years, Robert Van Pelt acquired all tools, equipment, punch presses, and shaping dies for the various models, styles, and sizes of the popular PAL trolling spoons. His acquisition was a significant milestone, ensuring that the craftsmanship and tradition behind PALCO lures would endure. Van Pelt’s expertise and resources have facilitated the re-establishment of PAL as a vital component of PEETZ.
The Modern PEETZ: Honoring Legacy and Innovation
Today, PEETZ continues to produce its legendary Knuckle-Buster Salmon Trolling Reels, along with classic flashers and lures that have become essential tools for serious anglers. Through meticulous craftsmanship and a dedication to preserving tradition, PEETZ serves anglers worldwide, carrying forward the legacy of resilience, ingenuity, and community that defined Pallister’s and PEETZ’s storied past.
Conclusion
From the legendary reels that define salmon trolling to the innovative lures of PALCO, and the fiery trials of 1993, these brands exemplify the enduring spirit of craftsmanship and resilience. Now united under the PEETZ name, they continue to inspire new generations of fishermen, ensuring that the rich history of Pacific Coast fishing culture remains vibrant and alive for years to come.
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