My Custom Baits, Painted!

Here they are, after several coats of paint layered to give a blended look and a good clear finish I'm pretty happy with my baits. I'm sure with lots more practice I'll improve on the airbrush techniques.

I crafted two different styles and will paint different patterns on the next batch...maybe a walleye pattern or sucker!

At $50 plus for some custom baits making them is not only economical but a fish caught on your own bait is even more of a thrill.

Off Season Muskie Bait Making

With a six month layoff from fishing Muskies there is lots of time to sharpen hooks, grease reels re-spool and do boat fixes. If you like Muskie fishing and want to save a little cash and have a creative edge you can also make your own Muskie baits.

I have chosen a couple styles of baits that are good for casting or a slow troll. To start I gather all my materials required, wire, wood, lexan, glue and tools to shape the baits.

Having a pattern to trace getting ready to cut your bait out is a good idea when making multiple baits. I use a band saw to make quick work of this balsa wood.

Next step is to bend up the thru-wire and glue the baits together with a good waterproof high strength durable glue. Clamping and letting sit overnight is a very good idea.

Make sure a good quality fising wiire is used and you'll have a durable long lasting bait.

Next carve out and sand to the correct size and install the lexan lip.

I drilled 2 holes just behind the belly hook to give the bait weight and stability into which lead will be poured.

Pour the lead and get ready to paint.

Painting comes next, 3 coats of primer sanding between coats and then airbrush to your favorite pattern.....stay tuned for the finished product.