Museum Archive: Vintage Helin Tackle Helin Flatfish, 1/3oz Yellow / Black fishing lure #4686

Stamping “S-J” on the belly immediately identifies this vintage Helin Flatfish, a classic design from Helin Tackle known for its distinctive curved profile. This 3 1/2" (9 cm) specimen features a vibrant yellow and black color scheme, complemented by subtle red dots along the bottom of the body. Weighing in at 1/3 oz (9 g), the lure utilizes a complex wire spreader harness to support its three sets of treble hooks, a configuration designed to ensure solid hooksets when trolling or casting. Identified by product code 4686, the lure maintains a handsome appearance with a soft, authentic character to the finish that places it at a 4/5 condition rating. These wood-bodied lures were a staple in many mid-century tackle boxes across the USA, particularly for anglers targeting trout and pike. The original hardware remains firm, from the belly stamp to the wire rigging, preserving a piece of fishing history from an era when slow-speed presentation was an art form.