Museum Archive: Vintage Marathon (with sonic blades), 2/5oz Nickel / Blue fishing spoon #5285

Measuring 2 1/4" (6cm) in length, this casting spoon highlights the inventive design work typical of the Marathon Bait Company, which operated out of Wisconsin from 1929 to 1979. The face is finished in a bold blue, complemented by a prismatic, diamond-patterned reflective insert that catches the light from multiple angles. Two elongated, silver sonic blades are mounted at the tail via a split ring, a signature feature designed to obscure the treble hook and provide additional flash. Stamped clearly on the polished nickel reverse is the 'MARATHON' brand name, a hallmark of mid-century American tackle production. This specimen, identified by product code 5285, weighs 2/5oz (12g) and remains in well-preserved condition. Some light wear is present, including minor paint loss on the blue surface and a bit of natural aging on the metal components, resulting in a 4/5 rating. The hardware is original and sturdy, ensuring this piece of USA-made fishing history retains its structural integrity.