History
Shakespeare was founded by William Shakespeare Jr. in 1896. The company began in Kalamazoo, Michigan with the patent and introduction of the level-wind reel. The technology was ground breaking and gained popularity quickly. By the early 20th century the Shakespeare company had over a dozen employees and the reels could be found through 5,000 dealers. In 1946 the company began producing fly line and monofilament line that was manufactured in the new Iowa factory and by 1947 the popular President model reel hit the market along with the first Shakespeare rods. The company continued as market leader through the mid-20th century and opened a factory in Great Britain in 1965. The company has since expanded to numerous foreign nations while continuing as a highly competitive brand in the United States.
Function
Shakespeare changed the reel market with the level-wind technology. Level-wind reels are a standard among spinning reels because the tangles are greatly reduced. The company also makes bait-casting reels, fly fishing reels and trolling reels for saltwater and freshwater fishing. Shakespeare is also a major brand in the rod market with the popular Ugly Stick series.
Features
The majority of Shakespeare products are purchased with some degree of warranty. The company has a full service department for reel and rod maintenance and repair.
Fun Fact
Shakespeare converted their factory to produce carburetors and mortar fuses during World War I. During World War II, the company built jeeps, tanks and aircraft. In 1965 the company opened a plant in Arkansas. The plant was one of the first environmentally conscious factories and it recycled and reused contaminated waste water.
Expert Insight
Shakespeare products can be found in the majority of tackle shops in the United States. The reels are common and the company is capable of maintenance and repair with current and past models. The common factor makes the products a safe choice when looking for moderately priced fishing tackle that will be durable, functional, and will have parts available for repair.
