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This image is of a wordmark. The wordmark PANFISHPRO is a federally registered trademark, signifying its official protection under United States law. A key visual element of this registration is the presence of the circle R (®) symbol, which is strategically positioned at the top right of the wordmark. Under the provisions of the Lanham Act, this symbol is reserved exclusively for marks currently maintained on the Principal or Supplemental Register of the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Panfishpro, LLC, based in Elgin, Illinois, asserts exclusive proprietary rights to this design by virtue of its use in commerce and formal federal registration. The company has not granted any other entity permission, whether explicit or implicit, to utilize this mark. Consequently, any unauthorized use of the PANFISHPRO trademark constitutes a violation of federal law. This legal standing is particularly significant in the fishing tackle industry, where Panfishpro has maintained a continuous online retail presence for twenty-five years, since January 1, 2001.
This is our current website header image. This image is a clean, professional product graphic featuring NEXTALGX brand fishing jigs. The layout is split between a product demonstration on the left and brand messaging on the right. Product Display: On the left side, there are five small, clear plastic tubes. Four of these tubes contain a single pink jig, while one tube stands empty with its cap sitting nearby on the surface. The Jigs: These are "mini" style jigs consisting of a bright hot pink round lead head and a matching hot pink ribbed soft plastic body that tapers into the cone the inventor made famous over forty years ago! Branding and Text: NEXTALGX®: The brand name is displayed in a bold, slightly stylized black font. A jagged, brush-stroke-style red line underlines the logo, adding a sense of energy or "strike" action. Tagline: Below the logo, it reads: "From the inventors of the Cubby Mini-Mite Jig." This provides historical context and suggests a legacy of quality in the panfish lure market. Visual Style: The entire composition is set against a seamless white background, which is typical for e-commerce or catalog listings. The lighting is soft and even, highlighting the translucent nature of the plastic tubes and the vibrant color of the lures.
The word "NEXTALGX" is presented in a stylized font with a registered trademark symbol (®) positioned at its upper right. An intense, bright red brush stroke is featured directly beneath the text.

The authentic 1980’s design from the original inventors of the Cubby® Mini-Mite® Jig.

The Legacy of the Mini-Mite: The Panfishpro Story

Over four decades ago, in the heart of Chicago, Illinois, on a seemingly ordinary street named Henderson, the seeds of what would become Panfishpro, LLC. were sown. It was within the walls of his childhood home that the company’s founder, driven by an entrepreneurial spirit and a passion for fishing, meticulously crafted the first Mini-Mite Jig.

The Neptune Lures Era

While many today associate the Mini-Mite with modern panfish legends, its true origins date back to the early 1980s. Before it became a staple of the Cubby Lures lineup, the Mini-Mite was originally produced and marketed under the banner of Neptune Lures. Owned and operated by that same young entrepreneur, Neptune Lures was the original vessel for this innovation. This unassuming panfish bait, born of innovation and a deep understanding of fish behavior, would soon become a staple in the tackle boxes of anglers across the region, and eventually, the nation.

Today, that journey has come full circle, with that original founder returning to his roots as the sole member of Panfishpro, bringing decades of history and expertise back to the brand.

MiniMight Replacement Tails, as sold in the 80’s

Humble Beginnings and Local Legends

With an unwavering belief in his product, the founder embarked on a journey to introduce the Mini-Mite Jig to the local fishing community. His initial sales strategy was simple but effective: forge relationships with the proprietors of neighborhood bait and tackle shops. Armed with infectious enthusiasm and the undeniable quality of his jigs, he began knocking on doors.

One by one, local establishments recognized the potential of the Mini-Mite Jig. Frank’s Live Bait & Tackle, a cornerstone of the Chicago fishing scene, became one of the first retailers to carry the product. Captain’s Quarters, Superior Sports, and Park Bait Shop soon followed suit, each recognizing the value of offering their customers a locally made, high-quality jig that consistently delivered results.

A composite photograph of Franks Live Bait & Tackle
A composite photograph of Frank’s Live Bait & Tackle

Expansion and the Great Lakes Network

As the Mini-Mite’s reputation as a “panfish getter” grew, it became clear that a wider distribution network was needed. To scale the business, the founder enlisted the help of close family members and a few trusted fishing companions—Carl Vizzone, Ken Schneider (affectionately known as “Lip of the Lake”), and Scott “Scooter” Gresham.

Together, they traveled throughout the southern region of Lake Michigan, forging relationships with shops in Indiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin. They ensured that his home state of Illinois was well-supplied while introducing the lure to fellow anglers across the Great Lakes. This dedication successfully established a robust distribution network, and the Mini-Mite Jig became a household name for regional fishermen.

A New Chapter: The Digital Frontier

Panfishpro.com proudly launched its online shop on January 1, 2001. At a time when e-commerce was in its nascent stages, the company ventured into uncharted territory to make high-quality products accessible to anglers across the United States.

Our very first online customer was Mr. Frank Wilhelm (right) of Onalaska, Wisconsin, who placed his order on January 2, 2001. Mr. Wilhelm remained a loyal customer for many years, and we remain deeply grateful for the trust he placed in us during those early days.

Photo courtesy of Mr. Frank Wilhelm of Onalaska, Wisconsin.

Innovation and Commitment

Today, we continue to innovate, offering exciting new products like NEXTALGX Rigged Jigs, Nailz’M Jig Tails, INSTINCTRIX Jigs, and Jigabite Jigs. Serving over 41,000 anglers and fulfilling thousands of orders annually, we remain committed to the same principles that started on Henderson Street:

  • Fast Shipping: Large inventory maintained for immediate dispatch.
  • Quality Control: Meticulous packaging to ensure perfect arrival.
  • Satisfaction Guarantee: A “no questions asked” return policy.
  • Privacy: A firm promise to never share your personal information.

“This is my second year using jigabites. They are my go to/bread and butter panfish plastics. This week I’ve caught over 50 hand sized bluegills and several crappies, including this 14 1/2″ slab. My biggest crappie ever.  I’ve been tipping the jigabites with wax worms and the fish are killing it. Great product.”

Jeff, from Perrysville, Ohio
Photo courtesy of Jeff, from Perrysville, Ohio.
Photo courtesy of Jeff, of Perrysville, Ohio.

Our baits are designed to catch fish, and they do it well. Whether you’ve been with us since the Neptune Lures days or just discovered us through our database-driven site launched in 2018, we thank you for being part of our history.

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This is an animated cartoon of our mascot, Bubbles McSmiley.

Blah, blah, blah. Let’s go fishing now!

“PANFISHPRO” and “MILLIONS OF FISH, COUNTLESS MEMORIES.” are federally registered trademarks of Panfishpro, LLC.

Disclaimer: Please be advised that Cubby® and Mini-Mite® are registered trademarks of their respective owners. Panfishpro® and NEXTALGX® are also registered trademarks; however, they are not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by the current owners of the Cubby Lures brand. Any reference to these marks is made exclusively for the purpose of providing a truthful historical account regarding the development, origin, and inventor of the Mini-Mite Jig.