Museum Archive: Vintage Rapala Original Floater F7, 1/8oz fishing lure #7989

Weighing in at 1/8 oz (4 g), this balsa wood minnow represents the enduring legacy of Lauri Rapala’s original design. This specific F7 model, identified by product code 7989, measures 2 3/4" (7 cm) and features a lifelike silver and green scale pattern. Originating from Ireland, the lure is equipped with a clear diving lip designed to reach depths between 3ft (0.9 m) and 5ft (1.5 m). The 5/5 condition is visible in the clean, reflective foil and the well-preserved dark gradient along the spine. It is rigged with two bronzed treble hooks, positioned to balance the buoyant balsa body during casting or trolling. The underside reveals the characteristic light belly, which contrasts with the detailed scale work on the flanks.