Fishing lures, your trusty companions in the quest for the perfect catch, deserve proper care. Regular cleaning not only extends their lifespan but also enhances their effectiveness. A clean lure is a more attractive lure, presenting itself better to wary fish. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the best methods for cleaning various types of fishing lures.
Why Clean Your Fishing Lures?
Neglecting lure maintenance can significantly impact their performance and longevity. Here's why cleaning is crucial:
- Improved Attractiveness: Grime, scales, and old scent can dull a lure's appearance and reduce its appeal to fish. A clean lure reflects light better, appearing more lifelike.
- Enhanced Hook Sharpness: Corrosion and residue can dull hooks, reducing their ability to penetrate fish effectively. Cleaning helps maintain their sharpness.
- Extended Lifespan: Removing saltwater, grime, and other damaging elements protects the lure's finish, preventing premature wear and tear. This saves you money in the long run!
- Preventing Snag Issues: Clean lures are less likely to snag on weeds or other obstructions, leading to fewer lost lures and frustrated fishing trips.
Different Lures, Different Cleaning Methods
The optimal cleaning method varies depending on the lure's material. Here's a breakdown for the most common types:
Cleaning Hard Baits (Crankbaits, Minnowbaits, etc.)
1. Rinse Thoroughly: After each use, rinse your hard baits with fresh water. This removes salt, mud, and other debris. Pay particular attention to the hooks and any moving parts.
2. Gentle Scrubbing: For stubborn grime, use a soft-bristled brush (an old toothbrush works great!) and a mild soap. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that could damage the lure's finish.
3. Dry Completely: Once clean, dry your lures thoroughly with a soft cloth to prevent rust and corrosion.
Cleaning Soft Plastic Lures
1. Saltwater Soak (Optional): If fishing in saltwater, you can soak soft plastics in fresh water for several hours to help flush out the salt.
2. Gentle Washing: Rinse with fresh water, and if needed, gently wash them with mild soap and water.
3. Air Dry: Allow soft plastics to air dry completely; avoid direct sunlight or high heat.
Cleaning Metal Lures (Spoons, Spinners, etc.)
1. Remove Rust and Corrosion: Metal lures are prone to rust. Use a fine steel wool pad or a specialized metal cleaner to remove any surface rust or corrosion.
2. Polish (Optional): For a shiny finish, use a metal polish after cleaning.
3. Dry Thoroughly: Dry completely with a clean cloth to prevent further corrosion.
Cleaning Hooks
1. Hook Sharpener: Regularly sharpen your hooks using a hook sharpener to maintain their effectiveness and penetrating power.
2. Wire Brush: Use a wire brush to remove any corrosion or debris from the hook's shaft.
Essential Tools for Cleaning Fishing Lures
- Soft-bristled brush: Old toothbrush or specialized lure cleaning brush.
- Mild soap: Dish soap or a specialized lure cleaner.
- Soft cloths: For drying.
- Freshwater: For rinsing.
- Hook sharpener: To maintain hook sharpness.
- Fine steel wool (for metal lures): To remove rust.
- Metal polish (optional, for metal lures): For a shiny finish.
Maintaining Your Lures for Optimal Performance
Regular cleaning and proper storage are crucial for extending the life of your fishing lures. Remember to store them in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. A tackle box with compartments will keep them organized and protected.
By following these simple steps, you'll ensure your lures remain effective and attractive, increasing your chances of landing that big one! Happy fishing!
