Fishing lures are essential for any angler, but over time, they can become dirty, stained, or even sticky. Cleaning old fishing lures not only helps restore their appearance but also ensures they work like new again. Whether you’ve found a lure stuck in the weeds or have some worn-out tackle you want to bring back to life, this guide provides a step-by-step process for cleaning different types of fishing lures.
Why Clean Old Fishing Lures?
Over time, fishing lures can accumulate dirt, grime, and algae, especially after being submerged in rivers, lakes, or oceans. Cleaning your lures can make them more attractive to fish by restoring their original color, shine, and functionality. Plus, it can save you money by allowing you to reuse lures that might otherwise be discarded.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Fishing Lures
Step 1: Gather Your Cleaning Supplies
Before you start, make sure you have the following supplies on hand:
- Warm water
- Dish soap or a mild cleaner
- Bleach (for stubborn stains)
- Goo Gone (for sticky residues)
- Scrub brush or old toothbrush
- Soft cloth or towel
- Hook sharpening tools
These supplies will work for most lures, including plastic swimbaits, hard plastic stick baits, and metal lures.
Step 2: Clean with Warm Water & Soap (For Regular Dirt and Grime)
For most lures, a warm water and soap mixture will do the trick. This method works best for removing dirt, grime, and oils that may have built up over time.
- Fill a tub or container with warm water.
- Add a few drops of dish soap (choose a gentle, non-toxic soap to avoid damaging the lure’s finish).
- Soak your lures for 10-15 minutes, allowing the soap and water to loosen any debris.
- Use a scrub brush or toothbrush to gently scrub away the dirt. Focus on any grooves or hard-to-reach areas where grime may have built up.
- Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth.
This method works great for cleaning soft plastic lures, such as swimbaits, as well as metal spoons and spinners.
Step 3: Use a Bleach & Water Mixture (For Stubborn Stains)
If your lures have been neglected for years or are dealing with stubborn discoloration or algae stains, a bleach solution can provide stronger cleaning power.
- Mix bleach with water (approximately 1 part bleach to 10 parts water).
- Soak the lures in the bleach solution for 5-10 minutes.
- Use a scrub brush or old toothbrush to scrub away the tough stains. Be careful not to leave the lures in the bleach for too long, as it can damage the lure material.
- Rinse thoroughly to remove any bleach residue.
- Dry the lures with a soft cloth or towel.
Be cautious when using bleach, as it can discolor certain plastics and rubbers. Test a small area first to make sure it won’t affect the lure’s appearance.
Step 4: Get Rid of Sticky Substances with Goo Gone (For Hard Baits)
Sometimes, old fishing lures have sticky substances like glue or adhesives that soap and water won’t remove. This is especially common with hard plastic baits.
- Apply Goo Gone (or a similar adhesive remover) directly to the sticky areas of the lure.
- Let it sit for a few minutes to break down the adhesive.
- Scrub gently with a hard-bristle brush or toothbrush.
- Wipe away excess Goo Gone with a clean cloth.
- Wash the lure with warm soapy water to remove any residual cleaning solution.
- Rinse and dry thoroughly.
This method works wonders on hard baits like crankbaits or jigs that may have accumulated sticky substances from packaging or handling.
Step 5: Sharpen the Hooks (For Maximum Effectiveness)
Even the cleanest lures won’t perform well if the hooks are dull or rusty. Sharpening your hooks is an important step in restoring your lures.
- Use a file or hook sharpening tool to gently sharpen the hooks. You can also use a rough concrete surface for quick sharpening if you don’t have specialized tools.
- Work on the hook’s tip and edges to restore its sharpness.
- Check the hook for rust. If it’s rusted, use a wire brush or sandpaper to remove it.
- Dry the hooks and apply a light coating of oil to prevent future rust.
Sharp hooks make a big difference in your chances of landing fish. Even old lures with rusty or dull hooks can be revived with a little sharpening.
Additional Tips for Cleaning and Preserving Lures
- Dry your lures completely before storing them to prevent rust and mold growth.
- Store lures properly by keeping them in a tackle box or lure wallet to avoid any unnecessary wear and tear.
- Inspect your lures regularly for damage or signs of wear. Cleaning and maintaining your lures will prolong their lifespan.
Restore Your Fishing Lures and Save Money
Cleaning old fishing lures is not only a great way to extend the life of your tackle but also a way to save money on buying new gear. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can restore your lures to their former glory and get back to catching fish.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye out for old lures while fishing. Finding forgotten lures in the water or in the weeds can be a great way to build up your tackle collection—just follow these steps to bring them back to life!
Conclusion
Whether you’re cleaning soft plastic lures, hard baits, or metal spoons, the process can be simple and effective with the right approach. Warm water and soap work for basic cleaning, while bleach and Goo Gone tackle tougher stains and sticky residues. Don’t forget to sharpen your hooks to maximize your lures’ effectiveness. With a little effort, you’ll have your old fishing lures looking and working like new!