Fishin'
About This Machine
The 1943 Fishin pinball machine from Exhibit Supply Company (ESCO), manufactured in June 1943, is a rare example of early electro-mechanical pinball design. ESCO was a prominent Chicago manufacturer active from 1932 to 1957, producing many machines during this period, though Fishin's specific theme and features are not documented in surviving records.
As a machine of this pre-flipper era, gameplay on Fishin was likely straightforward, relying on bumpers, targets, and relays to control scoring, with players influencing the ball's path primarily through skillful nudging of the cabinet rather than flippers, which were not introduced to pinball until 1947. No specific details about its design or notable features are available, leaving much to speculation.
While limited information exists about this particular machine, its age and ESCO provenance make it a fascinating artifact for pinball enthusiasts and historians researching the pre-flipper era of the game's development.