Museum Archive: Vintage Weedless Johnson Silver Minnow, 3/16oz Gold fishing spoon #8361

A weight of 3/16 oz (5 g) makes this compact spoon a versatile choice for light-tackle anglers targeting species in heavy cover. This Johnson Silver Minnow, cataloged under product code 8361, is an authentic USA-made specimen that showcases the timeless design originally patented by Louis Johnson in 1920. The body is stamped with the brand name on the underside and features a vibrant gold finish that remains in excellent shape, garnering a condition rating of 5/5. Measuring 1 3/4 inches (4.5 cm) in length, the lure’s specific geometry involves a metal thickness that is greater in the center than at the edges. This weighting causes the spoon to rock back and forth through a 270-degree arc during retrieval, which keeps the single hook pointed upward. The integrated wire weed guard is securely attached to the front eyelet, providing reliable protection when pulling the lure through lily pads or dense grass. Because predatory fish often strike from below or the sides, the gold plating is specifically designed to cast flashes in those directions. Many seasoned anglers prefer to tip this spoon with a small trailer to mimic the gills of distressed prey, as the specialized rocking motion is not dampened by the additional weight of a pork rind or soft plastic.