Museum Archive: Vintage Kmart Kresge #370, 1/3oz fishing lure #20577

A classic metallic silver finish with subtle red gill slashes identifies this Kmart Kresge #370, an interesting piece of Japanese-manufactured tackle history. Weighing in at 1/3 oz (10 g) and measuring 3 1/4" (8 cm), this jointed model features a two-piece body construction joined by a robust metal hinge. It is designed as a suspender, targeting depths between 2 ft (0.6 m) and 7 ft (2.1 m) for both casting and trolling applications. The metal diving lip is clearly stamped with "JAPAN," a hallmark of the manufacturing era for the Kresge line under product code 20577. Looking closely at the hardware, the two treble hooks show signs of use, consistent with a lure that has seen action. The specimen displays an honest 3/5 condition, with noticeable paint wear on the head section and around the glass-style eyes. These Kresge-branded lures are notable for how they brought Japanese lure-making precision to the aisles of American department stores.