OAHU, HAWAII

In 1973, seeking a creative outlet while recovering from back issues in Kona, Al Bento carved a wooden dowel to replicate the hydrodynamic shape of a skipjack tuna (Aku). This became “Ol’ Blu,” his premier custom-molded lure. He later engineered the “Silver Fox,” a lighter variation optimized for high-speed long-rigger trolling.

On May 12, 1994, navigating punishing 25-knot winds and 6–8 foot seas off Kalaupapa, Molokai, Bento proved the ultimate efficacy of his handcrafted lures. Running both Ol' Blu and the Silver Fox, he hooked and successfully landed a massive 1,207 lb. Pacific Blue Marlin.

Beyond entering the elite ranks of "Grander" marlin anglers, Bento cemented his place in Hawaii’s fishing heritage as a selfless community leader. He is celebrated for assisting fellow fishermen in distress and founding foundational local events, including the Hawaii Yacht Club's Goodwill, Ho’olea, and Keiki fishing tournaments.

His lures are highly sought after for by old school local fishermen here, we have come across a few in our early days of Luremonger.

In regards to identification, Bento's lures are known to not be labeled, but the Ol' Blu shape seen below are distinct in their single saddle post, and unique bullet shape.

Below, you’ll find our ever-growing digital archive showcasing every lure that has come through our shop. This collection is constantly evolving as new lures arrive, making it a living record of rare, limited-production lures. We will continue updating this database regularly, building what we aim to be the largest digital archive of offshore trolling lures in the world.

If you have any further information or any lures you believe deserve to be showcased, please reach out to us at ren@luremonger.com