The Charles Magin Collection of Lake Chautauqua Fish Decoys

This book contains photos and descriptions of a collection of approximately ninety Chautauqua fish decoys, or minnows as they were sometimes called. Originally created for winter spear fishing on Chautauqua Lake, these fish decoys are old, rare, and fine examples of American folk art. Now, more than one hundred years after winter spearing on the lake was declared illegal, there is very little published information concerning these old treasures. The decoys in this collection, assembled over more than 25 years, include some unusual and unique examples of Chautauqua fish decoys including some of outstanding quality from makers including Harry Seymour, Edward W. Irwin, William A. Spooner, Andrew Carlson, Albert Heminway, E. G. Gleason, Harry Conroe, and Hall.