Museum Archive: Vintage Fred Arbogast Jitterbug Jointed , 1/2oz Tiger / Red fishing lure #0127

Tipping the scales at 1/2 oz (14 g), this jointed Fred Arbogast classic is a standout piece of American fishing history from the mid-20th century. Measuring 2 3/4" (7 cm) in length, the lure features the Tiger / Red color scheme, showcasing a dark, spotted pattern over a cream base that remains a favorite for low-light conditions. The prominent heart-shaped metal lip is stamped with the JITTERBUG name, a component Fred Arbogast pioneered in 1938 to generate a specific rhythmic gurgling sound as it moves across the surface. This specimen, identified by product code 0127, carries a condition rating of 4/5, showing some signs of age and the absence of the middle treble hook. The jointed body design adds extra motion to its silhouette compared to the solid-body models, increasing surface displacement during a steady retrieve. It was originally engineered for casting in open water, where that wide metal lip creates a thick, visible bubble trail.