Museum Archive: Vintage Johnnie O'Neil Weedless Weed Wing Jonny ONeils 1, 1/4oz Nickel fishing spoon #9358

Nickel plating covers the entire 2 1/4" (6 cm) frame of this specialized weedless spoon, a design that traces its roots back to Johnnie O’Neil’s 1957 workshop in Akron, Ohio. Weighing 1/4 oz (7 g), the Weedless Weed Wing Jonny ONeils 1 (Product Code 9358) showcases distinctive metal "wings" and a sturdy wire guard engineered for navigating heavy cover. This specimen remains in excellent shape with a condition rating of 5/5, showing a bright, reflective surface. Johnnie O'Neil secured a patent for this specific configuration in 1962 before eventually selling the design to Harrison Industries in the mid-1960s. The single upright hook is integrated directly into the body, protected by a tensioned wire that stays clear of snags. The stamping on the metal is crisp, confirming its USA-manufactured heritage. It remains a functional example of early weedless technology that eventually transitioned to the Panther Martin brand. The metal wire guard is properly aligned with the hook point for its intended casting applications.