Museum Archive: Vintage Fred Arbogast Jitterbug , 1/4oz Black fishing lure #5880

Standing out in a deep, matte black finish, this specimen showcases the timeless silhouette that made Fred Arbogast a household name among topwater enthusiasts. Measuring exactly 2" (5 cm) and weighing in at 1/4 oz (7 g), this Fred Arbogast Jitterbug features the signature double-lobed metal lip that creates a rhythmic gurgling sound during a steady retrieve. This specific design has been a staple for night-fishing since its introduction in 1938. On the upper surface of the body, the white "JITTERBUG" stencil remains crisp and highly visible against the dark paint. The hardware consists of two treble hooks that remain in good shape, reflecting a 4/5 condition rating for this vintage piece. Cataloged under product code 5880, this 1/4 oz (7 g) lure represents a classic era of tackle manufacturing from the USA. The yellow-rimmed eyes are placed precisely at the front, just behind the wide aluminum cup that drives its unique surface movement.