Resin lures are built to last, but salt, blood, slime, and sun dull their finish and shorten the life of skirts and hooks. A simple cleaning routine keeps resin and abalone lures looking and fishing like new for many seasons.
After every trip
- Rinse in fresh water. Soak lures in a bucket of fresh water for a few minutes to loosen salt, then rinse under a gentle stream.
- Wash off blood and slime. Use mild dish soap and a soft cloth or sponge on the head. Avoid abrasive pads that can scratch the resin surface.
- Clean the skirt. Swish skirts in soapy water and rinse. Gently separate strands that are stuck together.
- Rinse hooks and leaders. Flush salt from crimps, swivels, and hook eyes.
- Dry completely in the shade, hanging lures so skirts fall straight.
Protect the finish
Resin is durable, but long exposure to direct sun can dull or yellow some finishes over time. Store lures out of sunlight, and avoid leaving them baking on the deck or in rod holders between trips.
Abalone inlays
The abalone shell in resin lures is sealed inside the resin, so cleaning the outer surface keeps the flash visible. A light polish with a soft microfiber cloth restores shine.
Skirts
Skirts are the first part to wear. If they become sticky, faded, or torn after cleaning, it is time to replace them. See how to re-skirt trolling lures.
Hooks
After drying, check hooks for rust and sharpness. A light spray of corrosion inhibitor on hooks helps, but keep it off skirts. Sharpen or replace as needed.
Storage
- Store lures in roll-up lure bags or ventilated cases so skirts stay straight.
- Do not store lures wet in sealed containers.
- Keep hooks covered or separated so they do not tangle or scratch other lures.
Deep clean
Once or twice a season, remove skirts and hooks, clean every part separately, and inspect the lure head for chips or cracks.
For more, see our guide to cleaning products for offshore gear and storing offshore trolling gear.
