Museum Archive: Vintage Bill Lewis Rat-L-Trap UV, 1/2oz fishing lure #17276

A striking red finish with a dark scale pattern across the back defines this Bill Lewis Rat-L-Trap UV, cataloged as product code 17276. Weighing in at 1/2 oz (14 g) and measuring 3" (7.5 cm), this specimen shows the classic lipless profile that has become a staple for many anglers. Under UV light, the body emits a vibrant orange glow, a clever detail intended to provide better visibility in stained or deep water where light is scarce. The hardware features two clean treble hooks, and the overall presentation is in 5/5 condition. A distinctive black spot sits just behind the yellow-ringed eye, creating a realistic target point. Because it is a sinking lure, the design allows for versatile depth control, supported by a loud internal rattle chamber that can be heard through boat hulls during a retrieve. The transition from the bright red sides to the gold-flecked scales on the dorsal edge is remarkably sharp. Anglers often employ these for long-distance casting or vertical jigging around deep structure during colder months. The tight wobbling action is a signature technical characteristic of this Bill Lewis model.