Museum Archive: Vintage Marathon Marathon, 2/5oz Pink / Nickel fishing spoon #3003

A classic pink-on-nickel scale pattern covers the face of this mid-century spoon, providing a textured visual that stands out against the polished metal back. Produced by the Marathon Bait Company, a legendary Wisconsin manufacturer that operated between 1929 and 1979, this specimen represents a clever piece of American tackle history. Listed under product code 3003, the lure measures 2 1/4" (6 cm) and weighs 2/5 oz (12 g), making it a versatile choice for standard casting setups. The most distinctive feature is the inclusion of two "sonic blades"—small, elongated metal petals attached via split rings near the hook. These blades are designed to generate subtle vibration and extra light reflection, serving to mask the treble hook while simulating the movement of a baitfish tail. This specific lure is in 4/5 condition, exhibiting a well-maintained finish on both the painted and nickel-plated surfaces.