Museum Archive: Vintage Fred Arbogast Jitterbug, 1/4oz fishing lure #9645

Cream-colored with bold black spots, this 1/4oz (7g) vintage plug represents a cornerstone of American topwater history. The 2" (5cm) body is finished with a distinct frog-style pattern, featuring a bright orange patch on the throat and large yellow-rimmed eyes. On the dark-shaded back, the JITTERBUG brand name remains crisp and legible. Bearing product code 9645, this specimen is in exceptional condition, earning a 5/5 rating with clean surfaces and polished metalwork. The wide, heart-shaped lip is a hallmark of Fred Arbogast's 1938 design, built to create a deep, rhythmic gurgling sound during a steady retrieve. The hardware, including the dual treble hooks, is securely mounted and shows no signs of use. Manufactured in the USA, this Jitterbug is a well-preserved example of one of the most successful surface lures ever produced.