DIY Swimbaits

The realistic swimming action of swimbaits makes them a popular choice for anglers fishing for both fresh and saltwater game fish. Although swimbaits are widely available and are produced by various manufacturers, many anglers prefer to make their own swimbaits. Making swimbaits at home allows for a degree of customization so that baits are produced to match specific fishing situations and fish species.

Things You'll Need

• Swimbait lure mold
• Old soft plastic lures
• Measuring cup
• 1-quart glass container
• Microwave
• Paper towel
• Wax paper
• Plastic bag
• Vegetable oil
• Scents (anise oil, cod liver oil, garlic)
• Scissors

Instructions

1. Spread paper towels on a work surface to collect any spills. Position the soft plastic swimbait mold on the paper towel. Spread wax paper on the paper towel beside the lure mold.

2. Measure 1 cup of old soft plastic lures. Use old plastics of the same color or combine colors to form new ones based on personal preference.

3. Place the measured cup of old soft plastics in a 1-quart glass container. Place the container and soft plastics in a microwave and heat until melted. Heat the soft plastics for 3 minutes to begin, and add more time if necessary to completely melt the soft plastic baits.

4. Remove the 1-quart container and soft plastics from the microwave. Pour the melted plastic into the swimbait mold. Let the baits cool for 15 minutes.

5. Remove the cooled swimbaits from the molds and place them on the wax paper to completely cool. Trim any excess plastic from the swimbaits with a pair of scissors to neaten them up.

6. Place the swimbaits in a plastic bag and add a few drops of vegetable oil as a lubricant to prevent the baits from sticking together. Add additional scents such as anise oil, garlic, salt and cod liver oil as desired to the baits in the bag.

References

• Tackle Making Magazine: How to Make Soft Plastic Lures