Museum Archive: Vintage Fred Arbogast Jitterbug, 1/3oz Black fishing lure #16316

Heavy-duty double-lobed metal lips on this vintage find are clearly stamped with Akron, Ohio origins and early patent numbers, including 2281867. Finished in a deep, glossy black, the 2 1/4" (6 cm) body features a bold white JITTERBUG stencil along the spine for easy identification. Weighing in at 1/3 oz (10 g), this lure provides the heft needed for accurate casting into calm backwaters. The prominent yellow-and-black iris eyes provide a high-contrast target against the dark finish. Underneath, the 16316 model is equipped with two sharp treble hooks secured by classic metal hangers. This Fred Arbogast design, pioneered in the late 1930s, utilizes the heart-shaped frontal plate to generate a rhythmic gurgling sound during a steady surface retrieve. Maintaining a 5/5 condition rating, the surface finish remains smooth and the metal components show a high luster.