Join the Mepps Community

For over 80 years, the name Mepps has been synonymous with success on the water. Whether you are a seasoned pro or a weekend warrior, you likely have a few of these iconic spinners tucked away in your tackle box. But being a fan of these lures goes beyond just owning the gear; it is about joining a global community of anglers who appreciate the art of the catch.

Many anglers searching for a way to connect with the brand are looking for more than just a store. They are looking for the “Mepps Club” experience—a way to share stories, earn recognition for their catches, and dive deeper into the technical aspects of spinner fishing. This guide explores how you can become an active part of this legendary fishing community.

The Mepps Master Angler Program

The closest thing to an official club for fans is the Master Angler program. This initiative has been running for decades, rewarding fishermen for their skill and dedication. It is not just about catching the biggest fish; it is about catching a variety of species using specific lures.

To join the ranks of Master Anglers, you must submit an application after catching a qualifying fish. The program is divided into various categories, ensuring that everyone from panfish enthusiasts to trophy hunters has a chance to participate. When you qualify, you receive a handsome embroidered patch that signifies your achievement.

How to Qualify for Awards

Qualifying for an award requires following specific guidelines to ensure fair play. First, the fish must be caught on a Mepps lure. Second, it must meet the minimum weight or length requirements set for that specific species in your region.

Once you have your catch, you take a photo and fill out the official application. Many anglers take great pride in collecting these patches over the years, displaying them on fishing vests or hats. It is a badge of honor that connects you to generations of fishermen who have done the exact same thing.

The Legendary Squirrel Tail Program

One of the most unique aspects of the Mepps community is the squirrel tail recycling program. This is perhaps the most famous “club” activity in the fishing world. For decades, the company has called upon hunters to send in squirrel tails to be used in the construction of their hand-tied lures.

Because squirrel hair does not mat in the water, it provides a unique pulsating action that other materials cannot replicate. By participating in this program, you are contributing directly to the manufacturing of the lures you love. It is a sustainable cycle that has kept the community connected to the outdoors in a very literal way.

Why Participation Matters

Participating in the tail program isn’t just about getting a few cents or some lures in exchange. It is about being part of a conservation-minded tradition. The company only accepts tails from squirrels that were harvested for meat, ensuring that no part of the animal goes to waste.

This program has fostered a deep sense of loyalty among those who spend their winters in the woods and their summers on the lake. It bridges the gap between different types of outdoorsmen and creates a shared identity centered around the brand’s heritage.

Collecting Vintage Mepps Apparel

If you have been searching for the “Mepps Club,” you may have come across vintage sweatshirts and hats featuring large, bold logos. During the 1980s and 90s, the brand released a line of “Club” apparel that has since become highly sought after by collectors and vintage fashion enthusiasts.

Finding these items today usually involves scouring secondary markets or estate sales. Wearing this vintage gear is a way for modern anglers to signal their appreciation for the history of the sport. The classic red, white, and black branding remains one of the most recognizable aesthetics in the fishing industry.

Mastering the Art of the Spinner

Being part of the community also means sharing knowledge. While spinners might seem simple to use, there is a significant amount of strategy involved in mastering them. True enthusiasts spend time learning the nuances of blade size, color selection, and retrieval speed.

Choosing the Right Blade

The heart of any Mepps lure is the blade. The Aglia, the original French spinner, is designed to start spinning the moment it hits the water. However, different water conditions require different approaches. For example, a Willow Leaf blade is better for fast-moving water, while a Colorado blade provides more thump in murky conditions.

Community members often debate the merits of silver versus gold blades. Silver is generally preferred for bright days and clear water, as it provides a high-flash reflection. Gold, on the other hand, is excellent for overcast days or stained water where a warmer glow is more visible to predatory fish.

Retrieval Techniques for Success

Don’t just cast and reel. To truly excel, you should experiment with your retrieval. The “stop and go” method involves reeling for a few seconds and then pausing, allowing the spinner to flutter down. This often triggers a strike from a following fish that was previously undecided.

Another popular technique is “burning” the lure. This involves a very high-speed retrieve just below the surface. This creates a massive amount of vibration and flash, which can be particularly effective for aggressive species like Smallmouth Bass or Northern Pike during the summer months.

Connecting with Others Online

While the physical patches and vintage gear are great, most of the modern community interaction happens online. There are numerous forums and social media groups dedicated specifically to lure collecting and spinner fishing. These platforms are excellent places to ask for advice, share photos of your latest trophies, or find rare lures.

Engaging with these groups allows you to learn about regional variations in fishing. You might find that a specific color pattern that works wonders in the North Woods of Wisconsin is completely different from what works in the streams of the Appalachian Mountains. Sharing this localized knowledge is what keeps the community vibrant and helpful.

Conclusion

Whether you are chasing a Master Angler patch, sending in squirrel tails, or hunting for vintage apparel, being part of the Mepps community is about celebrating a rich history of angling success. This brand has stood the test of time because it produces results, and the people who use these lures are some of the most passionate fishermen in the world.

Ready to join the ranks? Start by heading to your local bait shop, picking up a classic Aglia, and hitting the water. Document your catches, share your stories, and maybe even start your journey toward becoming a certified Master Angler. The water is waiting, and there is no better time to become part of the legacy.