Museum Archive: Bill Lewis Rat-L-Trap Floater RT 258, 1/3oz RT 258 Nickel Black Blue fishing lure #13475

Measuring exactly 3" (7.5 cm) in length, this specific specimen showcases the classic lipless profile that made Bill Lewis a household name among bass anglers. The RT 258 Nickel Black Blue finish features a highly reflective chrome-like nickel body, accented by a deep blue back and a prominent black kill spot near the gill plate. A yellow-rimmed eye is positioned on the head. Stamped clearly with "FLOATER" on its side, this 1/3 oz (9.5 g) model offers a buoyant alternative to the standard sinking trap, designed for working over submerged vegetation or shallow flats. The original silver-tone hardware is intact, including the belly and tail treble hooks. Found in its original clear plastic box with the Alexandria, Louisiana address, the lure is an unused example, rating a 5/5. The "Rat-L-Trap" name remains synonymous with the internal rattle technology pioneered by Lewis to provoke strikes through sound.