How to Maintain and Store Your Fishing Lures

Proper maintenance and storage of your fishing lures are essential for extending their lifespan and ensuring they remain effective. By taking care of your lures, you can prevent damage, rust, and wear, and keep them in optimal condition for your fishing trips. In this article, we will provide tips for cleaning, organizing, and storing your fishing lures.

Cleaning Your Fishing Lures

Regular cleaning of your fishing lures is crucial to remove dirt, debris, and saltwater residues that can cause damage. Here are some tips for cleaning your lures:

Rinse with Freshwater

After each fishing trip, rinse your lures with freshwater to remove any saltwater, dirt, and debris. This is especially important for lures used in saltwater environments.

Use Mild Soap

For a more thorough cleaning, use a mild soap and a soft brush to scrub your lures. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive brushes that can damage the lure's finish.

Dry Thoroughly

Dry your lures thoroughly with a clean cloth or paper towel. Leaving lures wet can lead to rust and corrosion, especially on metal components.

Organizing Your Fishing Lures

Keeping your fishing lures organized can save you time and frustration on the water. Here are some tips for organizing your lures:

Use Tackle Boxes

Invest in high-quality tackle boxes with adjustable compartments to organize your lures by type, size, and color. This makes it easy to find the right lure when you need it.

Label Your Boxes

Label your tackle boxes to indicate the types of lures they contain. This can help you quickly locate specific lures and keep your tackle organized.

Separate by Season

Organize your lures by season, keeping spring, summer, fall, and winter lures in separate boxes. This allows you to easily switch out your lures based on the time of year.

Keep Soft Plastics in Bags

Store soft plastic lures in resealable plastic bags to prevent them from drying out and sticking together. You can also add a few drops of scent to the bags to keep the lures fresh.

Storing Your Fishing Lures

Proper storage of your fishing lures can prevent damage and ensure they remain in good condition. Here are some tips for storing your lures:

Store in a Cool, Dry Place

Store your tackle boxes and fishing lures in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Extreme temperatures and humidity can cause damage to your lures.

Use Silica Gel Packs

Place silica gel packs in your tackle boxes to absorb moisture and prevent rust and corrosion. Replace the packs regularly to ensure they remain effective.

Check for Damage

Regularly inspect your lures for signs of damage, such as rusted hooks, chipped paint, or worn skirts. Replace or repair damaged lures to ensure they remain effective.

Rotate Your Lures

Rotate your lures periodically to ensure even wear and prevent certain lures from being overused. This can help extend the lifespan of all your lures.

Maintaining and storing your fishing lures properly can significantly extend their lifespan and ensure they remain effective. By following the tips in this guide, you can keep your lures in optimal condition and ready for your next fishing trip. Remember to clean, organize, and store your lures regularly to get the most out of your fishing gear. Happy fishing!