Museum Archive: Fred Arbogast Hula Popper, 3/16oz Yellow / Red fishing lure #9299

Tipping the scales at a delicate 3/16 oz (5.3 g), this specimen represents the smaller-profile topwater tools that revolutionized surface fishing for the light-tackle angler. This Fred Arbogast Hula Popper, cataloged under Product Code 9299, features a bright yellow finish with subtle spots and the signature red and yellow rubber skirt that gives the lure its name. Measuring 1 1/4" (3.2 cm), the bait remains in unused condition, still sealed in its original vintage retail packaging. The deep concave mouth is designed to create substantial surface commotion with every twitch of the rod tip. This particular model hails from the Akron, Ohio factory, as evidenced by the historical manufacturing details on the card back. The hula skirt was originally pioneered by Fred Arbogast in 1941 to provide life-like motion even while the lure stayed stationary on the water's surface. Secured by a single belly treble, the hardware reflects the standard of quality maintained at the 313 W. North Street facility.