Vintage South Bend Bass Oreno Early Metal Eyes Version, 1/2oz fishing lure #22627

Tipping the scales at 1/2 oz (14g), this wooden classic showcases the early manufacturing era of a true American staple. This South Bend Bass Oreno, identified by product code 22627, features the sought-after early metal eyes, a detail that preceded the glass and painted eye variants collectors often find. Measuring 2 3/4" (7cm), the body retains a distinctive yellow-scaled finish with a dark, cross-hatched back, reflecting the hand-applied craftsmanship typical of early 20th-century production in the USA. The deep concave front face, which still shows traces of its original red paint, is the signature design element for this floating model. Rated a 3/5, the lure shows honest character from years on the water, with the paint exhibiting a natural thinning that reveals the underlying wood grain and construction. Two belly-mounted treble hooks are secured with vintage screw-eye hardware, remaining structurally sound.