Museum Archive: Vintage Rapala Original Floater F9, 1/8oz FT (Fire Tiger) fishing lure #15695

Vibrant Fire Tiger (FT) hues dominate the balsa wood body of this Irish-made classic, a color scheme favored for visibility in stained or murky water. This particular specimen, identified by product code 15695, measures 3 1/2" (9 cm) and weighs in at 1/8 oz (4 g). The clear diving lip, stamped with its Irish origin, is designed to take the lure into a depth range of 3 to 5 ft (0.9 - 1.5 m). True to the 1930s design by Lauri Rapala, the construction relies on the natural buoyancy of balsa, allowing for versatile techniques like casting, trolling, or a steady stop-and-go retrieve. Looking closely at the finish, the green-to-yellow gradient transition is sharp, featuring signature dark vertical squiggles and a crisp yellow eye with a black pupil. The hardware includes two original treble hooks that show no signs of use, reflecting its well-preserved 5/5 condition.