Museum Archive: Vintage Eppinger Dardevle, 1oz Red / Orange / Nickel fishing spoon #3044

Weighed at 1 oz (28 g), this substantial casting spoon feels solid in the hand and belongs in any serious pike or muskellunge kit. The front face displays an orange finish accented with black dots and a bold red patch near the tail, while the reverse features the iconic stamped "DARDEVLE" DETROIT U.S.A. hallmark on a nickel-plated surface. Measuring 3 1/2" (9 cm), this specimen carries product code 3044 and shows its history through a condition rating of 3/5. You can see visible paint wear and surface scuffing along the edges and face, revealing the metal beneath from previous seasons on the water. The hardware consists of a sturdy split ring and a large, darkened treble hook that remains structurally sound for use. This particular lure represents the craftsmanship of Lou Eppinger’s Detroit era before the company’s 1959 move to Dearborn. The concave body is technically designed to produce a wobbling motion during a slow retrieve, a design so effective it was famously included in military aviation survival kits during wartime. The nickel back is a traditional choice for maintaining visibility in clearer water conditions.