Area Development
LureCraft Fisherman’s Shop, Inc., a manufacturer of liquid soft plastic, coloring, plastic molds and aluminum molds, which fisherman and other companies use to manufacture and assemble fishing lures, plans to expand its operations plant, creating up to 91 new jobs by 2017, in Orland, Indiana.

The homegrown-Hoosier company will invest $408,000 to purchase, renovate and equip a 22,000 square foot facility in Orland, which will increase its operations by more than 15,000 square feet from its current facility. The new location, which will be operational by December, will allow the company to grow its fishing lure production, expand its warehouse and ship its products around the world.

“When looking across the Midwest for the ideal facility, we kept coming back to Indiana,” said Kim Straley, Owner/President of LureCraft. “We found the ideal location in Orland, and when paired with the Hoosier workforce available here, Indiana stood out as the perfect location.” LureCraft is already hiring for manufacturing positions and plans to hire additional assembly, packing and managerial associates in the coming months.

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered LureCraft Fisherman’s Shop, Inc. up to $350,000 in conditional tax credits and up to $100,000 in training grants based on the company's job creation plans. These tax credits are performance-based, meaning until Hoosiers are hired, the company is not eligible to claim incentives. Steuben County will consider additional incentives at the request of the Steuben County Economic Development Corporation.

“LureCraft noticed a need in the market and met it, helping fishermen build their own lures,” said Eric Doden, President of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation. “After establishing itself, it sought growth opportunities and found them. These are hallmarks of Hoosier innovation and ingenuity. We are happy that after its initial Indiana success, they are adding new jobs and keeping their growth here at home.”

"LureCraft has an excellent opportunity through their new partnership with Wicked Tuna and the National Geographic channel,” said Rick Shipe, President of the Steuben County Council. “We are happy to assist the company and wish them great success.” LureCraft has been awarded a contract for the Wicked Glow Lures line of fishing lures featured in the National Geographic reality television series Wicked Tuna.