5 Insanely Rare (And Valuable) Lures

All pursuits in the world have their fair share of history, and fishing is no exception. As the industry developed, visionaries put out new bass fishing lures that pushed the boundaries of angling technology. Not all of them stuck - but today, these pieces of discarded history can fetch a pretty penny.

1. Haskell Giant Minnow

Made largely of copper, this lure was patented in the 1850s by gun manufacturer Riley Haskell. It features a rotating tail, beautifully carved features, and twin hooks in the rear. There are a few different sizes available on the market - but the one pictured about sold for over $100,000 in 2003.

2. Heddon Frog

This relatively well-known lure was devised in the late 1800s by honey-maker James Heddon. He started hand carving these frogs to entice people to buy his honey, but the quality and success of the lures is what really made them stick. It features a hanging treble hook, and a hook on each leg.

Less than 10 of these are known to be in existence - and they tend to sell for upwards of $30,000 at auction.

3. Shakespeare Revolution (Wooden)

Shakespeare is a household name in the fishing industry these days, but it wasn’t always that way. Manufactured in 1897, the Revolution was the world’s first wooden bait. Equipped with three treble hooks and propeller, this unconventional-looking lure found great success.

These have been known to go for $15,000 at auction, with a smaller version that sells for around $4,000.  

4. Comstock Flying Hellgrammite

Many collectors consider this to be the first wooden lure, vs. the Revolution above. Imitating a large dragonfly, it features a wooden body with copper parts, and beaded red eyes. Competitor Pfluegger tried to make a similar version, but was shut down in court.

The Comstock sells for around $12,000 at auction, while the Pfluegger knockoff can fetch about $10,000.

5. Moonlight 1913 Special

Manufactured in the same year as its namesake, this lure features a half red, half white body. A propellor up front is accompanied by two treble hooks.

Two sizes were made (standard, and a smaller baby version) that can both can bring in around $10,000 at auction.

We’ve come a long way since the 20th century - bass fishing is now at the forefront of technology. Anglers have the newest technology at their fingertips, and it’s forging an exciting path into the future of fishing. And who knows - in 50 years, something you got from a lure box club like eBaits could be worth a fortune!