Museum Archive: Vintage Bill Lewis Rat-L-Trap RT 521 Toledo Gold, 1/2oz RT 521 Toledo Gold fishing lure #8310

Weighing in at 1/2 oz (14 g), this American-made specimen represents the classic lipless silhouette that made Bill Lewis a household name among bass anglers. The RT 521 Toledo Gold pattern features a bold orange base accented by dark, rhythmic vertical markings and a subtle shimmer, designed to mimic high-contrast forage. Measuring 3" (7.5 cm) in length, the body is equipped with two original silver-finish treble hooks and a sturdy top-mounted line tie. A standout technical feature of this specific 8310 product code model is its reaction to UV light; the body fluoresces with a brilliant orange glow under ultraviolet rays, providing a visual edge in stained water or during low-light conditions. The surface is exceptionally clean with the paint and hardware well-preserved, earning a condition rating of 5/5. Bill Lewis designed these lures with an internal rattle chamber that produces a distinct sound signature intended to be heard through the water column when retrieved or jigged vertically.