Museum Archive: Vintage Lazy Ike Natural Ike, 1/2oz Perch fishing lure #10487

Measuring 3 inches (7.5 cm) in length, the clear plastic diving lip on this specimen features a distinct 'Natural Ike' stamp, marking it as a piece of American fishing history. The perch finish displays a deep olive green along the spine that transitions into a vibrant yellow midsection with subtle orange highlights on the belly. Detailed black mottling covers the flanks, showcasing the Kautzky Manufacturing Company’s shift toward hyper-realistic patterns after the transition to plastic production in the 1960s. Weighing in at 1/2 oz (14 g), the lure is equipped with two original treble hooks that remain in excellent form. The large, dark pupils set within pale white eyes give the profile a lifelike presence, consistent with the high 5/5 condition rating. Recorded under product code 10487, the body maintains a smooth surface, reflecting the quality control of a manufacturer originally founded as a firearms company in 1897. Collectors will appreciate how the 'Natural Ike' name molded into the lip serves as a direct link to the brand's pre-Pradco era, emphasizing the artisanal origins of Joseph Kautzky’s designs.