Saturday, October 9, 2010

Deconstructing Old Ads with Bill Sonnett



The "Real Sensations" and "Marvels of Beauty"  -- The Clinton Wilt's

This ad and editor's promotional write up from the August 1911 issue of National Sportsman feature the beautiful Clinton Wilt's. I have only come across one over the years in the field, but there are some nice collections in the NFLCC and the workmanship and beauty of these baits is always cause to stop and admire such well made baits. It is a mystery why they are so few and far between as the cost was not out of line with other baits of the day. Most of this advertisement and write up speaks to the beauty and quality of the baits with only one line referring to it's fish catching qualities. Viewing Clinton Wilts today, it is difficult to imagine tying one to the end of a line and casting it out into the great watery unknown. It is just too darn pretty!




-- Bill Sonnett

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