How Are Plastic Fishing Worms Made?

Commercial and Homemade Plastic Fishing Worms

Plastic fishing worms have been around for well over 100 years, according to the Bass Fishing Resource. The first patent for plastic worm bait was recorded in 1877. The first major production of plastic fishing worms began in the home of Nick Creme in 1951 and became large enough to later be produced by commercial equipment. The process for making plastic fishing worms at home is much the same as the commercial technique of heating plastic, adding enhancing ingredients and pouring into a mold.

Materials Needed

Some of the earliest plastic fishing worms were made of rubber. Plastic fishing worms made today are lighter weight so they move through the water with more action than the earlier heavy worms. There are several forms of liquid plastic: Plastisol and Liquid Plastic are two name brands. Both are noted for not having a "plastic" smell, one of the keys in successful plastic worm making. Another source is taking used plastic fishing worms, and melting them down. If using used plastic worms, one is limited as far as colors that can be achieved. A worm mold and plastic coloring will be needed in addition to liquid plastic. If making plastic worms for the first time, a small starter kit may be purchased that includes everything. Obtain an aluminum pot with a pouring spout to pour the plastic into the mold, a spoon, shallow bowl of cold water, wax paper and worm oil.

Heating Plastic

All forms of the liquid plastic must be heated prior to pouring. Liquid forms of plastic are white initially and become clear when heated. One ounce of plastic typically makes six plastic worms about 6 inches long. It is not recommended to heat more than an ounce at a time unless you have enough molds to accommodate the heated liquid plastic. Using a stove or hot plate, heat the liquid plastic on a low setting to begin with and increase heat gradually to medium. As liquid plastic reaches 325 degrees Fahrenheit it will become clear and begin to thicken. Stir frequently until the liquid plastic is clear and resembles the consistency of syrup. Overheating or failure to stir may cause scorching which will leave a permanent undesirable smell in the plastic.

Add Color/Glitter

Color and glitter are added so worms can be easily spotted in all types of water. There are many different brands of coloring and glitter used to enhance plastic worms and can be found in most sporting good supply stores; just ask for soft plastic worm coloring and glitter. As the liquid plastic begins to turn clear, add coloring. Begin with a drop or two and continue until the desired color is achieved. Add glitter after the color is obtained.

Pour into Mold

After color and glitter have been mixed thoroughly in the liquid plastic, slowly pour the plastic into the mold, filling each mold until it's rounded full. In the event multiple colors are being used, second and third colors must be poured promptly in order for all colors to bond together.

Remove from Mold/Add Worm Oil

Allow the molds to cool for at least 3 or 4 minutes; carefully remove, transfer to a shallow bowl of water or lay on wax paper until completely cooled. Dry thoroughly and place in a zip-lock bag. Add several drops of worm oil to the bag until the worms are coated and do not stick together.

Resources

• Visit the Bass Fishing Resource Guide for history, facts, forums and news.