Museum Archive: Vintage Rapala Original Floater, 1/8oz Perch fishing lure #4242

Hand-tuned balsa wood forms the core of this 2 3/4" (7cm) minnow, a material synonymous with the Rapala legacy since the brand's inception in Finland. Sporting the classic Perch color pattern, the body displays distinct dark vertical bars over a gold-and-green gradient. This specimen, identified by product code 4242, weighs 1/8 oz (3.4g) and is suited for techniques ranging from surface twitching to steady retrieves at depths of 2 - 6 ft (0.6 - 1.8 m). On a condition scale, this lure rates a 4/5; it remains structurally sound, though visual inspection reveals that the barbs on the treble hooks have been filed down by a previous owner. The clear plastic lip is stamped with the manufacturer's mark, confirming its heritage and buoyancy.