How to Make Soft Plastic Fishing Lures: A Dive into Creativity and Functionality

Soft plastic fishing lures have become a staple in the angler’s toolkit, offering versatility, durability, and an uncanny ability to mimic the movements of live bait. Whether you’re a seasoned fisherman or a novice looking to craft your own lures, the process of making soft plastic lures is both an art and a science. This article will guide you through the steps, materials, and techniques needed to create your own custom soft plastic lures, while also exploring the creative possibilities that come with this rewarding hobby.

Materials Needed

Before diving into the process, it’s essential to gather the necessary materials. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:

Plastic Resin: This is the base material for your lures. It comes in various colors and can be mixed to create custom shades.
Mold: You can purchase pre-made molds or create your own using silicone or other mold-making materials.
Heat Source: A microwave or a double boiler is typically used to melt the plastic resin.
Colorants: Dyes and pigments are used to add color to your lures.
Glitter and Flakes: These add visual appeal and can mimic the scales of fish.
Softener: This additive makes the plastic more flexible, giving your lures a more lifelike action in the water.
Hardener: Conversely, this additive makes the plastic more rigid, which can be useful for certain types of lures.
Injector or Pouring Pot: These tools are used to transfer the melted plastic into the mold.
Release Agent: A spray or liquid that helps the lure release easily from the mold.
Hooks and Eyes: These are the hardware that will be embedded into the lure.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare Your Workspace

Ensure you have a clean, well-ventilated area to work in. Melting plastic can produce fumes, so proper ventilation is crucial.
Lay down a protective covering to catch any spills or drips.

2. Melt the Plastic Resin

Measure out the desired amount of plastic resin and place it in a microwave-safe container or a double boiler.
Heat the resin in short intervals, stirring frequently to ensure even melting. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can cause the plastic to burn.

3. Add Colorants and Additives

Once the resin is fully melted, add your chosen colorants. Start with a small amount and gradually add more until you achieve the desired color.
If you want to add glitter or flakes, mix them in at this stage.
Add softener or hardener as needed, depending on the flexibility you want for your lure.

4. Prepare the Mold

Spray the mold with a release agent to ensure the lure will come out easily.
If your mold has multiple cavities, decide which one you want to use for your lure.

5. Inject or Pour the Plastic

If you’re using an injector, fill it with the melted plastic and carefully inject it into the mold. Ensure that the plastic fills all the cavities evenly.
If you’re using a pouring pot, pour the plastic into the mold, making sure to cover all the details.

6. Insert Hooks and Eyes

While the plastic is still warm and pliable, insert the hooks and eyes into the designated areas of the mold. Ensure they are securely embedded.

7. Cool and Demold

Allow the plastic to cool and harden completely. This usually takes a few minutes, but the exact time will depend on the size and thickness of the lure.
Once cooled, gently remove the lure from the mold. If it sticks, you can use a small tool to help release it.

8. Finishing Touches

Trim any excess plastic or flash from the lure using a sharp knife or scissors.
If desired, you can add additional details like eyes or scales using paint or markers.

Creative Possibilities

The beauty of making your own soft plastic lures lies in the endless creative possibilities. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Custom Colors: Experiment with different color combinations to create lures that match the local forage or stand out in murky waters.
Unique Shapes: Design your own molds to create lures with unique shapes and actions. Consider the type of fish you’re targeting and tailor the lure’s design accordingly.
Scented Lures: Add scent attractants to your lures to make them even more enticing to fish.
Glow-in-the-Dark Lures: Use glow-in-the-dark pigments to create lures that are effective in low-light conditions or at night.

Safety Considerations

While making soft plastic lures is a fun and rewarding activity, it’s important to prioritize safety:

Ventilation: Always work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes from the melting plastic.
Protective Gear: Wear gloves and safety glasses to protect your hands and eyes from hot plastic and chemicals.
Heat Safety: Be cautious when handling hot materials. Use appropriate tools and avoid direct contact with the melted plastic.

Q: Can I reuse old soft plastic lures to make new ones? A: Yes, you can melt down old or damaged soft plastic lures and reuse the material to create new ones. Just be sure to clean the plastic thoroughly before melting.

Q: How do I store my homemade soft plastic lures? A: Store your lures in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. You can use tackle boxes or plastic bags to keep them organized and prevent them from sticking together.

Q: What type of plastic resin is best for making lures? A: Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) resin is commonly used for making soft plastic lures due to its flexibility and durability. However, there are other types of resins available, so choose one that best suits your needs.

Q: Can I add scent to my homemade lures? A: Absolutely! Adding scent attractants can make your lures more effective. You can purchase scent additives specifically designed for soft plastic lures or use natural scents like garlic or anise oil.

Q: How do I create my own molds for soft plastic lures? A: You can create custom molds using silicone or other mold-making materials. Start by sculpting your desired lure shape out of clay or another material, then create a mold around it using the silicone. Once the silicone cures, you can use the mold to cast your lures.

By following these steps and exploring the creative possibilities, you can craft soft plastic fishing lures that are not only effective but also uniquely yours. Happy crafting and tight lines!