Museum Archive: Vintage Lazy Ike Natural Ike , 1/4oz fishing lure #14779

Measuring 2" (5 cm) in length, this specimen represents the mid-century evolution of the Lazy Ike brand from handcrafted wood to durable plastic. The finish on this 1/4 oz (8 g) crankbait showcases a detailed crappie-style pattern, utilizing a vivid green base layered with heavy black mottling and a pale, cream-colored belly. Its large, dark eye is a signature design element of the Natural Ike series, intended to mimic the anatomical features of a real panfish. Originally produced by the Kautzky Manufacturing Company, an Austrian-immigrant-founded firm from 1897 that eventually became part of the Pradco family, this model carries product code 14779. The clear plastic diving lip is stamped with the model name, and while it exhibits a small crack, the lure remains a significant piece of American tackle history. Two standard treble hooks are attached via belly and tail loops. This example sits at a 4/5 condition rating, showing well-preserved paint despite the minor hardware stress on the bill.