Fishing lures aren’t just tackle box staples — they can be prized collectibles that command impressive prizes. But before you fall hook, line, and sinker, it’s important to know what makes a lure valuable in the first place. Many of these pieces, which are handmade and crafted with materials no longer used today, embody a blend of artistry and nostalgia that appeals to anglers and collectors alike.
From intricate metalwork to hand-painted wood, here are over a dozen antique fishing lures that collectors are willing to pay top dollar for.
1. Haskell Minnow (1859)
The Haskell Minnow, valued for its hand-crafted design and intricate metal finish, is among the rarest and most expensive lures in the world. Created by Riley Haskell, this lure dates back to the mid-19th century, with its lifelike fish shape made to attract bass. The Haskell Minnow can fetch impressive amounts at auction, with a 10-inch lure snagging over $100,000 in 2003.
2. Shakespeare Muskellunge Minnow (1907)
This early wooden lure from the Shakespeare Company is prized for its rotating tail and hand-painted details. It was designed to mimic injured prey, which helped enhance its appeal among muskie fishers at the time. Only a few are known to exist in good condition, making this lure ultra-rare and valued in the thousands. You can buy the three-hooked lure for $1,495 on eBay.
3. Salish Wood Fishing Lure (Mid-20th Century)
Is this a fishing lure or a piece of art? Hand-carved and painted by artist Simon Charlie, this lure was designed to capture a specific-sized cod. The lure features a zoomorphic head and various illustrations of other creatures. In 2018, it sold for $650 at auction.
4. Pflueger Trory Minnow (1890s)
Known for its dual propellers, the Pflueger Trory Minnow was crafted with ingenuity in mind, setting it apart from other lures of the era. Its metal construction and unique spin system are used for attracting larger prey, making it a staple for serious anglers. Today, collectors prize this early model for its rarity and innovative design. You’ll often find a single lure listed for around $100.
5. Creek Chub Wiggler (1920s)
This wooden lure became a favorite among bass anglers due to its realistic swimming action. Creek Chub lures are also known for their paint quality and lifelike scales, with those featuring glass eyes being especially valuable. A well-preserved Wiggler can sell from low hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending on its condition, color, and if it comes in the original box.
6. Heddon Dowagiac Minnow (1902)
As one of the earliest wooden lures, the Heddon Dowagiac Minnow is considered another staple due to its scarcity and craftsmanship. The lure’s unique design features glass eyes and intricate metalwork, making it highly desirable among vintage lure collectors. Older models with intact paint can sell for upwards of $400.
7. South Bend Surf Oreno (1916)
Made for saltwater fishing, the Surf Oreno is recognized by its massive size and colorful patterns. Its robust body and durability against choppy ocean conditions make it a reliable pick among fishing enthusiasts, with collectors valuing both its functionality and history. Orenos in good condition, especially in rare colors, can sell for over $100.
8. Moonlight Dreadnought (1908)
This double-jointed lure was designed to resemble a large, slow-moving fish (but if we’re being honest, it looks like a giant radish to us). Its early metal construction and sturdy body make it a unique piece in lure history. Rarely found in good condition, this antique fishing lure can sell for insane amounts, like this Dreadnought No.5 that’s listed for more than $5,000 on eBay.
9. Heddon Vamp (1920s)
The Vamp’s elongated body and vibrant color options make it a popular antique fishing lure among freshwater anglers, especially for catching pike, which are known to be aggressive. Its realistic features, such as glass eyes and detailed paintwork that resemble scales, add to its appeal. Collectors are known to pay premium prices for well-preserved Vamps, with some exceeding $250.
10. Hastings Weedless Frog (1915)
Shaped like a small frog, this lure’s whimsical design and jointed legs made it stand out on the water. Originally made from wood with painted details, it’s a favorite among collectors for its unusual look and design innovation. Intact versions are valued for both their rarity and nostalgic charm, with one selling at auction for $1,800 in 2009.
11. Comstock Flying Hellgrammite (1902)
As one of the oldest American-made lures, the Comstock Flying Hellgrammite is a rare and sought-after lure for its unique design inspired by the hellgrammite insect. Made to attract bass and trout, this detailed lure featured wings and a segmented body to mimic natural prey. Well-kept sets have been known to fetch over $10,000 at auction, according to My Bait Shop.
12. Smithwick Devil’s Horse (1960s)
Known for its slender profile and bright color patterns, the Devil’s Horse is still appreciated for its effective surface action, particularly for catching freshwater fish like bass and pike. Originally made of wood, early versions have become collectible due to their craftsmanship and lasting popularity among anglers. Complete sets have listed for around $300 on eBay.
13. Fred Arbogast Jitterbug (1938)
Dubbed the “bait of champions,” the Jitterbug’s distinctive curved lip was a favorite for night fishing due to its loud, splashy action. Though the design has changed little over the years, early wooden versions hold the most value. Vintage models in their original packaging are especially prized by collectors, and can fetch prices upwards of $200.
14. Jamison Wiggler (1918)
The Jamison Wiggler, introduced in 1918, is known for its unique side-to-side wobbling action that effectively mimics wounded prey. Crafted from wood and fitted with metal fins, this antique fishing lure was designed to attract larger fish like bass. Today, collectors seek out well-preserved Wigglers with original paint and hardware, with some commanding impressive prices (about $400).
Looking for more vintage collectibles?
Depending on the decade, there are plenty of valuable vintage items out there, from 15 Valuable Collectibles From the 1950s to Valuable Collectibles From the 1960s. These 14 Common Places To Find Valuable Collectibles at Home are a great place to start if you’re searching for collectibles around your home.
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