R.D. Hull's Fishing Invention Was Game Changing!

Meet the man who introduced fishing to millions of people by inventing a fishing reel that was free from backlashing. R.D. Hull was a lifelong tinkerer and his fishing invention changed the industry forever.
A special Thank You goes out to the family for providing photographs of Jasper R. Dell Hull and his family.
Send Mail Here!
Rhetty for History
P.O. Box 850593
Yukon, OK 73085
#Fishing #Zebco #Tulsa

[@slowtwist]

Thanks for the video. My wife's aunt was one of the first assemblers hired. She retired in the early seventies. She gave my father in law several rods and reels in the fifties and sixties. I still use some of them.

[@RhettyforHistory]

Those would be neat to have. Especially with the story. Might be good to display on the wall. Thank you so much for watching!

[@tractorhyatt7044]

Thank you, Rhetty! I grew up fishing with Zebco reels. They are the best. Such a beautiful final resting place. Enjoyed! 🇺🇸🚜👍

[@RhettyforHistory]

I have a lot of memories with those old Zebcos and I still have them all. Thank you so much for watching!

[@DOMINYPAUL]

Love this tribute, I'm 66 and started using a Zebco 33 as a child and I still own a couple, Best reel in the world as far as I'm concern. Thanks for the video. P.W.D.

[@RhettyforHistory]

I'm glad to hear you enjoyed the video. Mr. Hull changed the fishing industry forever and they were definitely great reels. They are still really popular. Thank you for watching!

[@conniephillips8217]

I have used zebco reels my entire life. I just love them and always fall back to the zebco because they are so dependable! Thanks for a great video!

[@RhettyforHistory]

They have definitely made a lot of memories over the years. Thank you for watching.

[@amoore8761]

That's a family that has brought joys into more lives than be counted. What a way to bring calm and joy into times of need. Warm day, light breeze, a family pond, and fishing pole with a Zebco 33. Thanks for sharing.

[@RhettyforHistory]

Nothing can really beat getting away with family and friends enjoying a day of fishing. We may take the gear for granted during those times but you're right about Zebco bringing a lot of smiles. Thank you for watching!

[@TheGraveyardChannel]

I drove right by his crypt when I was there and didn't even know it. I haven't fished since I was a kid, but I loved this vlog. And I love his location, too. And leaving a lure was perfect. This is one of my favorite destinations that you've visited. As always, great job, Rhetty!

[@RhettyforHistory]

I'm sure there is a lot of history in that cemetery that I don't even know about. I know you did Leon there but i can't remember if you did anyone else? Thanks for watching my friend.

[@caroleroseburgh1344]

Hi Rhett 🖐🏼. My dad and brother used the Rod's and reels. All the time. AWESOME video. Thanks so much for sharing.💯👍✔️🐟🐠🐟🐠🐟🐠🐟🐠🐟🎣.

[@RhettyforHistory]

They were good rods and reels for sure! I bet there were never too many who didn't own one back in the day. Thank you for watching Carole!

[@caroleroseburgh1344]

@@RhettyforHistory you're welcome.🖐🏼

[@marypozzi3745]

My Dad caught many a catfish with zebco reelmy Dad has been gone since 1985 but I still carry his love for fishing

[@RhettyforHistory]

That's awesome you are carrying his love for fishing on! I do love to go catfishing. Thank you for watching!

[@colleenbazyn2171]

Many a great memories fishing with my grandpa, dad, husband, kids & now grandkids. I have a Zebco 33 I've had for years & it's still going strong. Thanks Rhetty, I really enjoyed this video. Stay safe..

[@RhettyforHistory]

They are really tough reels! I have some early ones my grandpa gave me! Sounds like you really shared some special memories with your loved ones as well. Thank you so much for watching and I hope you stay safe as well.

[@nadiazahroon6573]

You brought back nostalgic memories When right off 11th st. East I lived and would go to work on 11th st. To the university of Tulsa where I worked. Almost bought a house in Catoosa, OK. Husband was laid-off from Rockwell and we moved to CA. My husband went to Spartan Aeronautical School in the early 70's. What memories, thanks Rhetty. Stay safe you and the family.

[@RhettyforHistory]

That school has always been considered to be the top school in the nation for that field. Catoosa seems to be booming now. A lot is popping in there. Thanks for watching Nadia!

[@Corgis175]

Quite a story. My nephew is an avid fisherman and I'm sure he has that kind of reel, probably a couple. A beautiful lake too.

[@RhettyforHistory]

I've always been fascinated with people who bring new innovative ideas. Thank you so much for watching Arleen!

[@macmccollum6064]

That was incredibly interesting. Takes me back 60 years to 1960 as a 5 year old with my Dad. We fished often in eastern Oklahoma at Tenkiller, Spavinaw and Eucha. I had a Zebco.

[@RhettyforHistory]

I love Tenkiller! I used to fish and camp there a lot. There is a lot of good fishing in Eastern Oklahoma. Thank you for watching!

[@RalphReagan]

Fantastic video. Thank you!

[@RhettyforHistory]

You're welcome and thank you for watching Ralph!

[@albertwaggoner3249]

My friend, keep up the great work. What an enjoyable episode, my uncle Roger has a Zebco 55, it's the largest Zebco I have seen. Like you I have a 202, 404 and probably 4 or so, model 33. What a great memory you have given me this morning. Thanks and as usual, please keep on. GREAT....

[@RhettyforHistory]

I have never seen a Zebco 55 much less heard of one. That's pretty interesting. I'll have to look that up now. Thanks for watching!

[@marypozzi3745]

I have always had Zebco fishing equipment

[@RhettyforHistory]

It's good equipment to have! Thanks for watching!

[@M_Darabi]

Greatest invention ever! I grew up in the 70's and did own many Zebco reels in my younger days. Thanks for sharing this story. I never really new who invented reel.

[@RhettyforHistory]

I agree with you! It made fishing simpler. Especially if you were tromping thru tall grass to your spot or riding on a bike. Thank you for watching!

[@thomaswhitten2537]

I loved those old rattle traps! They work!

[@RhettyforHistory]

Yes they do! I've had a lot of luck on them! Thank you for watching!

[@annerobinson8824]

What a beautiful peaceful resting place for this inventor, very apt. Once again thank you for a very interesting and thoughtful video.

[@RhettyforHistory]

You're welcome Anne. I really loved his location in the cemetery. Thank you so much for watching!

[@paulstan9828]

That was really interesting about the inventors life. The first fishing set I ever had was a zebco. Never knew who invented it. I thought the fishing lure was a nice idea!

[@RhettyforHistory]

You're right. The fishing lure is a good one. I'm not sure who did that one. Thank you so much for watching Paul!

[@whiterabbit-wo7hw]

My dad had one and liked it a lot. Beautiful cemetery.

[@RhettyforHistory]

Yes it is. Thank you so much for watching!

[@graycloud057]

This was really good! A big thanks to Mr. Hull! I’ve had many Zebco reels.

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thank you! They are certainly a reel to have! I appreciate you watching!

[@SnyderTools]

I live in Scurry County!! Can’t wait to tell everyone this story!! Thank you!!

[@RhettyforHistory]

You're welcome and thank you for watching!

[@cwb0051]

I didnt go fishing myself, but living on Lake Erie, My father, and brothers sure Did!.Im Sure they Used this fishing reel..Stay Safe..God Bless you and your family..

[@RhettyforHistory]

I bet you're right but who knows. Definitely a good area for the fishing though. Thank you for watching!

[@brianquilty687]

That was a very interesting history lesson. Thanks Rhett, I found that very informative .... you did your homework.

[@RhettyforHistory]

I'm glad you enjoyed it! I had a lot of help from the family. Thank you so much for watching!

[@CuratorOfCrime]

Very neat story and a great way to keep his name alive!

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thank you and I appreciate you watching!

[@jenniferfranklin479]

My mom worked for Zebco when I was young.

[@RhettyforHistory]

That's interesting. Judging by the photos it looked as though they employed a lot of women there. Thank you so much for watching!

[@rebeccamartin9664]

We can always count on you for learning more everytime.. thanks for sharing.. was my first as well. Love to hunt and fish also. God bless us all. Past and present. ♥️🙏☝️

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thank you so much for watching Rebecca!

[@clintperry799]

I actually met RD 's wife in the 1980's and fished on his property. She gave me a tour inside their home , which was round. She showed me the first reel off the assembly line , Incased in clear glass or plastic . It was a very special to me and to his wife. I'm very proud of that memory. 😊

[@ravensbrood3544]

R.D. was a great example of good old fashioned Okie know how. 👍

[@RhettyforHistory]

Yes except he was a Texas but we can still claim him! Lol! Thank you for watching!

[@ravensbrood3544]

@@RhettyforHistory The Dumbest part was the Texan part..the smarts are from the sooner state.😁

[@rickashay6023]

Great American and great video . Thanks for the wildlife footage great job .

[@RhettyforHistory]

You're welcome and thank you so much for watching!

[@ramonachapman368]

What a beautiful place! Thank you for another interesting video!

[@RhettyforHistory]

You're welcome Ramona and thank you so much for watching!

[@ramonachapman368]

@@RhettyforHistory my pleasure! Stay well!

[@RhettyforHistory]

We are doing our best. I hope you stay well too!

[@ramonachapman368]

@@RhettyforHistory we, too are doing our best!

[@RhettyforHistory]

That's good to hear!

[@georgeearls3338]

My first one was a 202, I bought a new 808 last summer. I've used many reels. I have to say zebco is mt favorite.

[@RhettyforHistory]

They are good reels for sure. I've never had an 808. Thanks for watching George!

[@rosseganjr9402]

Great video I hope you and your family have a happy Easter even though things are bad now

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thank you Ross. I hope you have a Happy Easter too. We are planning on staying home safe and sound.

[@jodysappington7008]

thank you for sharing....stay safe

[@RhettyforHistory]

You're welcome. Thank you for watching and I hope you stay safe as well.

[@hullxsm]

Thanks for the effort to put this together. I have not seen some of those photos before. I placed a 202 on a rod in the flower holder some time back. Any idea what happened to that? My Grandfather was a fun man. Wish you could have met him. Stephen

[@RhettyforHistory]

Sounds like he would have been a great guy! The photos came from the Hull family themselves. They were extremely nice in sharing them as well as information. I would say that no one outside of the family has seen them before. Thank you for watching!

[@hullxsm]

@@RhettyforHistory Well since I am the Hull family, RD was my grandfather, you must have talked to my cousin. We should meet when this is all over.

[@RhettyforHistory]

It very well could have been. That's pretty neat to see that this is your grandfather as well! Thank you for sharing that!

[@clintperry799]

I had the pleasure of fishing in the pond at his house, back in the 1980s and actually met your grandmother. She took me on a tour of the house and showed me the first reel it was incased in glass or plastic cylinder. Your grandmother was very kind. I still love to fish and it all started with a Zebco. 🙂

[@DenitaArnold]

Interesting. Didn't know the inventor was local in TX and OK

[@RhettyforHistory]

Yes, I think it's sort of been forgotten about somewhat. Thank you so much for watching!

[@giggles8458]

Thank you again.

[@RhettyforHistory]

You're welcome and thank you for watching!

[@kirkmorrison6131]

Although I don't use closed face reels at all. This was very very interesting. Thanks I had no idea who invented them

[@RhettyforHistory]

You're welcome and I'm glad you found it interesting. Thank you for watching!

[@JamiJR]

My parents and I tend to call those "closed bails" - have to admit that despite the fact they get birds nests, I prefer open bails. I just find them easier to use. And I LOVE that house.

[@thomaswhitten2537]

Oh, now you can't blame tree fishing on the reel!!

[@JamiJR]

@@thomaswhitten2537 Assuming you're serious and not joking (because no tone of voice in a computer, that's why we have emojis to denote joking, sarcasm, etc) - a "bird's nest" is a type of tangle in the line, usually at the reel. Like some some Gordian Knot. Personally, I think the ones I'm getting right now are because the guy who put the line on put it on too loose. When I cast out there's tons of loops in the line. The shop where I got it done was closing because the owners decided to retire so I think he did a half-assed job because he was sad about losing his job that he had for years. I really need to get them redone.

[@thomaswhitten2537]

@@JamiJR Oh, I know what a birds nest is alright! I was just teasin' about it. 😏 Spent many an hour trying to untangle a mess or just cut it all off and go back with new. I learned to always carry a new line with me! 😏

[@JamiJR]

@@thomaswhitten2537 Yeah, anymore I just cut and start fresh. Still need to get new line on my reels. Not going fishing until September, however. (Like to go when the kids are back in school.) So I have time. Might have it done at a store up in the area I fish since the only other options are Big Five - which always does a lousy job, a store that specializes in saltwater fishing so they don't carry much freshwater, or driving all the way up to Rancho Cucamonga to Bass Pro and what with the Coronavirus I really don't want to do that much traveling at the moment. That, or order a motorized reel spooler of my own. Tried the hand crank version and it doesn't work well for me as I can't spin it fast enough.

[@thomaswhitten2537]

@@JamiJR I live about a mile off the Gulf of Mexico so everything here is salt water. Can't say I know of any fresh water lakes around here. I guess I'd have to drive inland a hour or so to fish fresh water. Not much into salt water fishing at this point. Health has kept me more tied to the house the last couple of years. But you never know. I might get into a salt water set up this summer. At least it's something to do. I have a feeling boats are going to get real cheap around here pretty soon. Don't think I'll get into a boat though. Money pits. I was mechanic at one point in time and space so I'd do all my own work on a boat. We'll see! 🙂🙂

[@victoriamercado202]

Awesome video again😃😃😃👍👍👍👍

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thank you Victoria! I appreciate you watching!

[@moviedog1]

If you're looking for a video, the inventer of Tums antacid is buried in Bolivar Missouri. Also Gene Clark from the band The Birds is buried in Tipton Missouri.

[@RhettyforHistory]

Interesting! I did not know about that one. Thank you for telling me about that!

[@EllenCFarmGirl]

I've been a fishing nut since I was little! Loved this! Fishing is definitely a Social Distancing activity.

[@RhettyforHistory]

You're right about that! It is one of the thing I love doing most. Thank you for watching Ellen!

[@EllenCFarmGirl]

You should do a fishing vlog, just take us fishing with you! Relaxing. I just did a trail ride on my Farm Girl channel.

[@RhettyforHistory]

I'll have to figure out how to do that.

[@kenycharles8600]

Zebco employed a lot of women. A really good friend worked for Zebco at their 41st Street manufacturing facility in Tulsa until they sold out and moved their manufacturing to Mexico. I don't know where they make their products now. I have not bought a new Zebco reel since they laid off my friend and left the country.

[@RhettyforHistory]

What is funny is that those old ones keep going and going. You're right about them employing a lot of women. You can see it in the photos. I never really knew where those facilities were. Is there any sort of painting on the sides of the building? I know there is a Zebco plant/office that is newer and I have been past there. Can't remember the exact location.

[@okharpman]

My son say you should visit his home. It is in the shape of a reel. It is Tulsa. My son says The Outdoor Oklahoma TV show on OETA has shared this story several times as well as his home.

[@RhettyforHistory]

Interesting so it's similar to the Hull House?

[@awh5773]

i cought my first large mouth on a zebco 202 rod and reel back in 1975 when i was 4 years old. and i was using a yellow and black spot rooster tail lure

[@macmccollum6064]

Does the water front Hull house near Catoosa still exist? Is it on the Verdigris River? Tried to locate it, no luck.

[@RhettyforHistory]

It is still there. I know it wasn't too long ago and the owner was trying to sell it.

[@macmccollum6064]

@@RhettyforHistory Looked without success on google earth, where is it from Catoosa?

[@kathynunnally4014]

N 305th Ave Catoosa Ok

[@thegrimreaper1991]

Ive never been fishing in my life. But I would like to go deep sea fishing....that interests me!

[@RhettyforHistory]

That's pretty fun as you never know what you might reel in. I highly recommend a little 4 hour excursion. Thank you for watching.

[@johnkelsey2482]

Very Good...........

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thank you for watching John!

[@sherrycambridge1531]

My Daddy Bought Me A Zebco Reel When I Was 5 Years Old !!!

[@RhettyforHistory]

Do you still have it?

[@sherrycambridge1531]

@@RhettyforHistory No, After All The Kids & Grandkids It Eventually Came To Ruin. (Just Plumb Wore Out)

[@RhettyforHistory]

Ah, sounds like it got it's money's worth though!

[@sherrycambridge1531]

@@RhettyforHistory Very Much So !!

[@maryrohner215]

"🎣 👍"

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thank you for watching!

[@ehrldawg]

I bet his estate is worth a lot of coin.

[@RhettyforHistory]

Not to long ago I think the house came up for sale. Thank you for watching!

[@scoobydoodle5473]

I like cookies!

[@RhettyforHistory]

Me too Scooby!

[@denniscorson8997]

Zebco is the reel every body copes......