Museum Archive: Vintage Bill Lewis Rat-L-Trap, 1/2oz fishing lure #10489

Tipping the scales at a solid 1/2 oz (14 g), this lipless crankbait is weighted for long-distance casting and a fast sink rate to cover water efficiently. Measuring 3" (7.5 cm) in length, the body displays a textured scale pattern over metallic gold sides with a bright orange belly and a dark-shaded back. This Bill Lewis original, identified by product code 10489, is an American-made staple that holds a condition rating of 5/5. The lure’s acoustic profile is defined by extra-loud internal rattles designed to be heard through the hull of a boat, paired with a tight wobbling action that targets the lateral lines of nearby predators. Its design allows for versatile presentations, including vertical jigging in colder months when fish congregate in deep wintering holes or around submerged structure. Featuring a large black spot near the eye for added visual impact, the hardware consists of two sturdy treble hooks attached via split rings. This specimen is particularly effective in stained or dirty water where its sound and high-contrast gold-and-orange palette provide a distinct advantage.