Vintage wooden fishing lure / topwater plug with treble hooks

Toys / Sporting Goods / Fishing Tackle

Uncommon; common as a type, but specific collectible examples can be rare depending on maker, color pattern, and condition

Identified on September 15, 2026

Estimated Value

$20-$75 USD; potentially higher if identified as a desirable maker/model or if provenance is documented

This appears to be a vintage fishing lure, likely a topwater plug or crankbait designed to imitate a baitfish. The body is elongated and fish-shaped with a green-to-yellow scale-pattern paint scheme, a molded or painted eye, a front propeller or lip-like hardware element, and multiple treble hooks attached along the underside and rear. The lure shows classic mid-century tackle construction, with a wooden or hard-bodied core and metal rigging. The finish exhibits age-related cracking consistent with older painted lures. No maker's mark is visible in the image, so exact manufacturer cannot be confirmed from this view alone.

Era

Mid-20th Century (approximately 1940s-1960s)

Origin

Likely United States

Material

Painted wood body, metal hardware, steel treble hooks, glass or plastic eye insert, clear protective finish

Condition

Fair to Good; visible surface crazing/checking in the paint/finish, light wear from use, and possible oxidation on metal components. No obvious major breaks visible, but age-related wear is present.

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Physical Details

Dimensions

Approximately 4 to 5 inches long

Weight

Light

Authentication

Authenticity Score

Medium; the construction and aging look consistent with a genuine vintage lure, but the maker and exact age cannot be confirmed from the image alone

Provenance

Likely mass-produced American fishing tackle from the postwar era; possibly from a well-known lure maker, but insufficient visible markings to attribute confidently.

Historical Significance

Vintage wooden fishing lures are collectible examples of mid-20th-century recreational fishing culture and tackle craftsmanship. Certain makers and color patterns are highly sought after by collectors, especially if original paint and hardware remain intact.

Restoration Notes

•No clear evidence of restoration visible
•Finish shows age checking and wear consistent with original aging

Learn more about this type of antique

This identification and value range are AI-generated research aids, not authentication, certification, or a formal appraisal. Learn about the limitations and when to consult a qualified professional appraiser.