Charlie Tanabe Lures.
Charlie Tanabe was a legendary Honolulu, Hawaii lure maker active from the 1970s into the 2000s. Operating out of Oʻahu, Tanabe is widely considered one of the Hawaiian island chain's "best-kept fishing secrets". His handcrafted offshore trolling pieces are highly prized, particularly by local Oʻahu fishermen targeting marlin and tuna.
The Tanabe Style & Defining Models
- Real Fish Head Bullets & Slants: Tanabe is most famous for casting real preserved fish heads (such as small mackerel, aku, or scad) inside his heavy clear-resin bullet and slant heads. These realistic eyes and natural flash profiles are legendary for generating explosive strikes.
- Jetted Heads: He heavily utilized multi-hole jetted designs (such as his famous 4-Hole Jetted Slants and 4-Jet Bullets). These machined jets stream a dense smoke trail behind the lure, creating irresistible bubbles while trolling.
- Color Themes: Common variations include clear single-hole inserts, light blue tints, and specialized foil or color schemes like his Black Salmon inserts.
Collectibility & Value
Because Tanabe has passed away, authentic vintage heads are strictly limited in availability. Collectors and offshore anglers frequently hunt down pre-owned or "new old stock" pieces. Depending on size, condition, and whether it features a real fish head, they sell in a wide price range:
- 7" to 9" Bullet or Jetted Slant Heads: Typically fetch $60 to $80+
- 12" Fish Head Bullets: Can command $200+ per head.