Museum Archive: Vintage Rapala Original Floater, 1/4oz Gold fishing lure #4101

Weighing in at 1/4 oz (7 g), this classic balsa wood minnow represents the foundational design that Lauri Rapala pioneered nearly a century ago. This 5" (13 cm) Rapala Original Floater, identified by product code 4101, features the iconic balsa construction that remains a benchmark for buoyancy and durability. Finished in a Gold colorway with a distinct black back and vibrant yellow eyes, the body transitions smoothly along its slender profile to a white belly. The hardware consists of three treble hooks, standard for this length to ensure solid hookups during casting or trolling. Designed to work a depth range of 3.9 - 5.9 ft (1.2 - 1.8 m), it is suited for steady retrieves or stop-and-go techniques. This specimen is in 5/5 condition, appearing well-preserved with its lustrous finish and clear, sturdy diving lip. Hand-tuned and tank-tested in Finland, it carries the heritage of a lure model that has famously caught more world-record fish than any other. The clear lip is angled specifically to facilitate the intended wounded minnow presentation when retrieved through the water column.