Museum Archive: Vintage Burke Flex Plug Bandit , 1/2oz Perch fishing lure #23203

Weighing 1/2 oz (14 g), this rubber-bodied surface lure showcases the innovative "Flex-Plug" construction developed by Michigan’s Burke Flexo-Products Company. The classic Perch finish on this specimen features a dark, scaled-pattern back over a bright yellow underbelly, a color scheme traditionally used to target pike and bass. Measuring 2 1/4" (6 cm) in length, the Burke Flex Plug Bandit (Product Code: 23203) feels remarkably substantial due to its flexible material, a hallmark of Burke's production from 1950 through 1993. The hardware consists of two treble hooks, one belly-mounted and one at the tail, which are secured firmly into the pliable body. A distinctive red-and-white painted eye adds a focused visual point just behind the cupped face designed for surface work. The exterior shows very little wear, maintaining a vibrant appearance that corresponds to a 5/5 condition rating. Every aspect of the molding, from the subtle gill details to the integrated hook hangers, reflects the quality of mid-century American lure manufacturing.