New ice fishing product ideas

[ThunderCAT]

I have a few (6-7) functional product ideas for ice fishing, but am not sure how to go about design and prototyping, etc...anyone here own a small company that would like to work with me? If it's something that you think might do well and are interested in producing we could explore some sort of profit sharing agreement or something. I'd like a couple of these things made just because it would make my ice fishing life easier! 

[Russ-Judy]

send us a e mail

r-j-rabbitz@msn.com

[ThunderCAT]

E-mail sent.

[Cousin Kyle]

I can help you with a retail strategy, packaging, and any consulting post development.  If you need help finding any factories once prototypes are done I have some connections it just depends on materials needed.  If you need help with the development I know a few companies but it is not cheap.  They do help walking you through the patenting process trademark and will help in locating a factory.  If you have some more questions shoot me a PM.

[ThunderCAT]

I am not sure I have the time or $ to works these through on my own, which is why I wanted to hook up with a company and work out some sort of agreement if they are interested in the ideas...let them work on the development, etc.

[Cousin Kyle]

First go to this website www.uspto.gov and see if it is locked up, this takes a while searching throughout the database since it is all keyword.  If it is not in the database or your product is significantly different your in luck.  I suggest locking up your product by filing a trademark.  It costs about $100.00.  Then track down companies that you think can pull off your concepts and pitch it (e.g. rapala, vexilar, etc.). 

This is a long process and typically defeating if you are not working with the right people.  I hate to say it but do not bother unless you have a lot of faith in your idea, money to invest and most importantly TIME.  Make sure you keep it to yourself and lock it up with the Trademark (I cannot stress this enough).  I have seen alot of ideas taken and developed by friends co-workers, or major companies, because it is all about speed to market if you do not lock up your idea. At least get a Non disclosure signed before you discuss with anyone.

[ThunderCAT]

NDAs would be signed for sure...already have that in mind. Sadly enough, I may not have the time or money to put into it, so I may have to sit on them for awhile if that is the case.

I did some searching on www.uspto.gov this morning...and didn't find anything similar...but like you said, it's a lot like searching for a needle in a haystack!

[Cousin Kyle]

Good Luck! 

[ThunderCAT]

Thanks....I am sure I'll need it!   

[Fawkinnae]

Hey ThunderCat I've chased a few of these kind of things. And it's not easy. I would be happy to sit down with you and tell you what I know. I think Cousin Kyle had some good feedback.

Where I've always fell down is the sales end. And it always comes down to the selling part. The best is probably if you can find a sales person who has a parallel product or products they sell - that could be a good fit. I know that's down the road but think of it as part of the equation right now.

[Cousin Kyle]

The sales part is my bread and butter.  I am not currently working to much in sporting goods but I know some good reps if you needs help with sales.  I have met with Gander Mountain multiple times and currently have a few lines in there but primarily camping.  Either of you let me know what you need for sales help I can help walk you through the rep world.