Fishing lures are an essential tool for any angler, as they are used to attract and catch fish. These lures come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, and are made using a range of materials and techniques. In this blog, we will explore the process of how fishing lures are made, starting with the materials used and ending with the final product.
The most common materials used to make fishing lures are plastic, metal, and wood. Each of these materials has its own unique properties and is suitable for different types of lures and fishing situations.
Plastic is the most widely used material for fishing lures, as it is cheap and easy to work with. Plastic lures can be molded into a wide range of shapes and sizes, and can be made to mimic the appearance and movement of various types of baitfish. Some common types of plastic lures include worms, grubs, and swimbaits.
Metal lures, such as spoons and jigs, are typically made from lightweight metals like aluminum and brass. These lures are known for their ability to produce a lot of flash and vibration in the water, which can be highly effective at attracting fish. Metal lures are also very durable, making them a good choice for anglers who are targeting larger, more aggressive fish.
Wood lures, such as plugs and crankbaits, are often made from balsa or cedar. Wood lures have a natural, lifelike appearance that can be highly attractive to fish. They are also relatively lightweight, which allows them to be cast long distances. However, wood lures are not as durable as plastic or metal lures and may require more maintenance to keep them in good condition.
Once the materials have been chosen, the next step in the process of making a fishing lure is to design and create the mold. This can be done using a variety of methods, including hand carving, 3D printing, and injection molding.
For hand-carved lures, the artisan will start by sketching out the design on a piece of paper. They will then use a variety of tools, such as chisels, knives, and sandpaper, to shape the wood or plastic into the desired shape. This process can be time-consuming and requires a high level of skill and attention to detail.
3D printing is another method that is gaining popularity for making fishing lures. This process involves using a computer-controlled printer to build the lure layer by layer using a range of materials, including plastic, metal, and even wood. 3D printing allows for greater design flexibility and the ability to create complex shapes and patterns that may not be possible using traditional methods.
Injection molding is a mass-production technique that is commonly used to make plastic lures. This process involves injecting molten plastic into a mold, which is then cooled and ejected as a finished product. Injection molding is fast and efficient, and it allows for the production of large quantities of lures at a relatively low cost.
Once the mold is created, it is time to start production. For hand-carved and 3D-printed lures, this involves shaping and finishing the lures by hand. For injection-molded lures, the process is more automated, with the lures being produced at a high rate using a machine.
After the lures have been made, they are inspected for quality and any imperfections are corrected. They are then packaged and shipped to retailers or directly to customers.
In conclusion, the process of making fishing lures is complex and involves a range of materials, techniques, and skills. From the selection of materials and design and creation of the mold, to the production and inspection of the final product, each step is crucial in ensuring that the fishing lures are of high quality and able to effectively attract and catch fish. Whether you are a seasoned angler or just starting out, understanding how fishing lures are made can help you make informed choices about the lures you use and improve your chances of success on the water.
