Woven Rattan Fishing Creel Basket with Lid - Natural Brown

This item is an authentic vintage wicker fly fishing creel basket, traditionally used by anglers to store and preserve their catch while wading out in streams.Creels like this are highly sought after by collectors of sporting antiques and rustic lodge decor.Functional Anatomy & FeaturesThe Fish Slot: The rectangular opening on the top-left of the lid is a dedicated fish slot. This allowed fishermen to quickly drop caught trout or bass directly into the basket without having to open the main lid, preventing previous catches from slipping out.The Willow Reed Weave: It is tightly hand-woven from flexible natural split willow or rattan reeds. This design provides excellent ventilation, allowing evaporation to keep the interior cool—especially when lined with damp moss or to preserve fish freshness.Center Wood Toggle Closure: The wooden peg loop fastens securely over the center loop to keep the hinged lid from swinging open during movement.Missing Strap / Harness: Creels of this era originally featured a canvas or leather shoulder harness woven through the back loops so they could hang comfortably at hip level against the body