Museum Archive: Vintage Bill Lewis Rat-L-Trap RT376, 2/5oz RT376 Bleeding Shadill fishing lure #9039

Striking red accents along the lower belly and gill area distinguish the RT376 Bleeding Shadill pattern on this Bill Lewis Rat-L-Trap. Measuring 6 cm (2 1/4 in) and weighing 12 g (2/5 oz), this lure belongs to the 9039 product code series. The lipless body is designed to sink quickly, facilitating deep-water presentations and vertical jigging during colder months. The metallic silver and gold finish is topped with dark horizontal stripes and a prominent black spot behind the gill, reflecting the quality of USA manufacturing. Equipped with dual silver treble hooks, the hardware remains robust and intact. This specimen is in 5/5 condition, with the paintwork and large dark eyes showing no signs of use. Anglers often rely on these models in stained or dirty water due to their high-visibility color scheme and the internal rattles that can be heard even through a boat hull. The line tie is securely fastened to the top of the dorsal fin, balanced for various casting techniques across the water column.