How to Wire a Fishing Plug: A Step-by-Step Guide

Fishing plugs are an essential tool in any angler’s arsenal. They are designed to mimic the movements of prey fish and attract predator fish. However, even the best fishing plug won’t catch anything if it’s not wired correctly. Wiring a fishing plug can seem intimidating, but with the right tools and a little know-how, it’s a straightforward process. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through how to wire a fishing plug and get you back out on the water in no time.

The first step in wiring a fishing plug is to gather the necessary materials. You’ll need a pair of wire cutters, a pair of pliers, electrical tape, split rings, and a few other items. Once you have everything you need, you can move on to stripping the wires. This step requires precision and care to ensure that the wires are stripped evenly and not damaged in the process.

After stripping the wires, it’s time to connect them properly. This step requires a little bit of electrical knowledge, but with our detailed instructions and diagrams, you’ll have no trouble completing this crucial step. We’ll also show you how to add a split ring to your fishing plug and test it to make sure it’s working correctly.

Don’t let a poorly wired fishing plug ruin your next fishing trip. With our step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to wire your fishing plugs like a pro and increase your chances of catching that trophy fish you’ve been dreaming of. So, grab your tools and let’s get started!

Materials You’ll Need

Wiring your own fishing plug can seem daunting, but with the right materials, it can be a breeze. Here are the four essential items you’ll need to get started:

Crimp Pliers: These are used for crimping and cutting wires. It’s important to choose a pair of pliers that is comfortable to hold and has a good grip, as you’ll be using them for extended periods.

Wire Cutters: The wire cutters are used for cutting and stripping the wires. A good pair of wire cutters will have a sharp edge and a comfortable grip, making the job easier and more precise.

Wire Strippers: Stripping the wires is essential to connect them properly. A wire stripper is a specialized tool that removes insulation from the wire without damaging it. They come in a variety of sizes and styles to fit different gauges of wire.

Soldering Iron: Soldering is the process of joining two wires together. A soldering iron is an essential tool for this process, as it melts the solder and creates a strong connection between the wires. It’s important to choose a soldering iron that is appropriate for the size of the wires you’ll be working with.

Now that you have all the materials you need, it’s time to move on to the next step: stripping the wires. Keep reading to find out how it’s done!

Gather These Essential Materials Before You Begin

1. Wire Strippers: You’ll need a good quality wire stripper to remove the outer insulation from your wire.
2. Needle-nose pliers: You’ll use these to manipulate the wires and make sure they are in the correct position before crimping.
3. Crimping tool: A good quality crimping tool will ensure that your connection is secure.
4. Fishing plug components: This includes the plug body, hooks, split rings, and any other components you want to add.
5. Wire: You’ll need to choose the right gauge of wire for your plug, depending on the type of fish you’re targeting and the water conditions.

Now that you have your materials gathered, it’s time to get started with wiring your fishing plug. With the right tools and some patience, you’ll be able to create a custom plug that works perfectly for your fishing needs. Keep reading for step-by-step instructions on how to wire a fishing plug.

Selecting the Right Type of Wire for Your Fishing Plug

Choosing the right type of wire is crucial for the effectiveness of your fishing plug. The diameter of the wire is important as it affects the buoyancy and weight of your plug. A thinner wire will make your plug float higher, while a thicker wire will make it sink deeper.

The material of the wire also matters. Stainless steel wire is a good choice because it is corrosion-resistant and durable. However, it can be difficult to work with because it is stiff. Soft annealed stainless steel wire is a good alternative because it is more flexible and easier to work with, yet still strong.

Consider the color of the wire as well. Use silver or clear wire if you want your plug to be less visible underwater. Use colored wire if you want to mimic the look of baitfish or attract more attention from fish.

Why Quality Tools and Supplies Matter

If you’re going to take the time to wire your own fishing plug, it’s important to use quality tools and supplies. Skimping on the essentials can lead to poor results or even a dangerous situation.

Reliability: Fishing plugs are exposed to harsh conditions, including saltwater, sand, and sun. Using quality materials ensures that your plug will withstand the elements and remain reliable when you need it.

Safety: Cheap or low-quality tools can be dangerous, especially when working with electricity. A frayed wire or a short circuit can cause serious injury or damage to your equipment.

Performance: The quality of your wire, connectors, and other materials can affect the overall performance of your fishing plug. Using high-quality supplies can improve conductivity and increase the effectiveness of your lure.

Investing in quality materials may cost more upfront, but it’s worth it in the long run. Your safety and the effectiveness of your fishing plug are worth the extra expense.

How to Strip the Wires

Now that you have all of the necessary materials and supplies, it’s time to get started with wiring your fishing plug. The first step is to strip the insulation off of the ends of the wires. This can be done with a wire stripper tool or with a pair of wire cutters. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: First, make sure you have the right size wire stripper tool for the gauge of wire you’re using. If you don’t have a wire stripper tool, you can use a pair of wire cutters instead.

Step 2: Hold the wire securely in one hand and the wire stripper tool in the other hand. Place the wire in the appropriate gauge slot on the stripper tool, making sure that the insulation is facing outwards.

Step 3: Close the wire stripper tool around the wire and apply pressure. Twist the tool back and forth a few times to score the insulation. Then, pull the tool towards the end of the wire, removing the insulation as you go.

Step 4: Repeat the process for the other wire, making sure to remove the same amount of insulation from both wires. You should be left with two exposed wire ends, each about the same length.

Step 5: After stripping the wires, you may want to twist them together to keep them from unraveling. This will make it easier to connect the wires to the plug later on.

Tools You’ll Need to Strip Wires Safely and Efficiently

Before you start stripping wires, you’ll need to gather a few tools. Here are five tools that will make the process easier and safer:

1. Wire cutters: Use wire cutters to cut the insulation away from the wire and remove any excess wire.
2. Wire strippers: Wire strippers come in different sizes and are used to strip insulation from wires of different gauges.
3. Needle-nose pliers: These pliers are used to hold the wire steady while you strip the insulation away.
4. Heat gun: A heat gun is used to soften the insulation on wires that are difficult to strip.
5. Safety glasses: Protect your eyes from flying debris by wearing safety glasses.

Having the right tools on hand will ensure that you can strip your wires safely and efficiently.

Step-by-Step Guide to Stripping Wires for Your Fishing Plug

• Gather your materials: Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary tools, including wire strippers, pliers, and a wire cutter.
• Measure the length: Determine the length of wire needed by measuring the distance from the plug to the hook.
• Strip the wire: Use the wire stripper to remove the outer insulation, being careful not to nick the inner wires. Then, strip the ends of the inner wires to expose the metal.
• Twist the wires: Twist the exposed wires together tightly to create a strong bond.
• Solder the wires: Apply a small amount of solder to the twisted wires, making sure it flows smoothly and covers the entire joint.

With these steps, you can strip wires like a pro and be on your way to wiring your own fishing plug. Keep reading for more tips and tricks on how to create your own custom fishing lures!

Connecting the Wires Properly

Step 1: Twist the Stripped Wires Together

After stripping the wires, twist the exposed copper strands together. This will help create a stronger connection and prevent the wires from coming loose.

Step 2: Apply Solder to the Wires

Using a soldering iron, apply solder to the twisted wires. This will ensure a strong bond between the wires and create a durable connection that will withstand the rigors of fishing.

Step 3: Cover the Connection with Heat Shrink Tubing

Slide a piece of heat shrink tubing over the soldered connection and heat it with a heat gun. The tubing will shrink and form a tight seal around the connection, protecting it from water and other elements.

Step 4: Test the Connection

Before using your fishing plug, it’s important to test the connection to make sure it’s secure. Give the wires a gentle tug to ensure they are firmly connected.

Step 5: Repeat for Additional Wires

If your fishing plug has multiple wires, repeat the process for each wire. Take care to keep the wires organized and properly labeled to avoid confusion later on.

Understanding the Different Types of Wire Connections

Soldering: A method of joining two wires by heating them and melting a filler metal (solder) that flows into the joint and cools to form a strong bond.

Crimping: A method of joining two wires by using a tool to compress a metal sleeve or connector onto the wires, creating a tight connection.

Twist-on connectors: A type of connector that joins two or more wires by twisting them together and securing them with a plastic cap that screws onto the wires.

Screw terminals: A type of connector that joins two or more wires by tightening them under a screw that is secured to a metal plate.

Wire nuts: A type of connector that joins two or more wires by twisting them together and securing them with a plastic cap that has internal threads that twist onto the wires.

The Proper Way to Solder Wires for Your Fishing Plug

Soldering is a crucial step in properly connecting the wires for your fishing plug. It involves using a metal alloy to create a permanent bond between two or more wires. Here are the steps to solder wires for your fishing plug:

• Step 1: Gather the necessary tools such as a soldering iron, solder wire, and flux.
• Step 2: Strip the insulation off the wires to expose about 1/4 inch of bare wire.
• Step 3: Apply flux to the bare wires to help the solder adhere to the wires.
• Step 4: Heat up the soldering iron and touch it to the wire for a few seconds until it’s hot enough to melt the solder.
• Step 5: Apply the solder wire to the heated wire and let it flow around the joint.
• Step 6: Remove the soldering iron and let the joint cool completely.

It’s important to note that soldering can be dangerous if not done properly, so it’s important to follow safety precautions such as wearing safety glasses and working in a well-ventilated area.

Additionally, it’s important to use high-quality solder and flux to ensure a strong and reliable connection that won’t fail during use. Don’t skimp on these materials, as they can make all the difference in the longevity and performance of your fishing plug.

Alternatives to Soldering for Your Fishing Plug

If you are looking for alternatives to soldering for connecting wires in your fishing plug, there are several options to consider. Here are a few:

• Wire Nuts: These are twist-on connectors that can be used to secure two or more wires together. They are easy to use and require no special tools.
• Crimp Connectors: These are connectors that are crimped onto the ends of wires using a special tool. They are reliable and provide a secure connection.
• Heat Shrink Connectors: These are connectors that are placed over the ends of wires and then heated to shrink and seal the connection. They are waterproof and provide a strong connection.
• Terminal Blocks: These are blocks with screw terminals that can be used to connect wires. They are easy to use and allow for easy removal and replacement of wires.
• Twist and Tape: This is a simple method where the stripped ends of wires are twisted together and then wrapped with electrical tape. While not as secure as other methods, it can be a quick and easy solution.

When choosing an alternative to soldering, it is important to consider the application and the environment in which the fishing plug will be used. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, so be sure to choose the method that best suits your needs.

How to Add a Split Ring

Step 1: Gather your materials. You will need a split ring, pliers, and your fishing plug.

Step 2: Use the pliers to open the split ring. Hold the ring with the pliers on each side of the opening and gently twist to separate the two ends of the ring.

Step 3: Slide the open split ring onto the eyelet of your fishing plug. Make sure the ring is facing the right direction and is securely attached to the plug.

Step 4: Use the pliers to close the split ring. Hold the ring with the pliers on each side of the opening and gently twist to bring the two ends of the ring back together. Make sure the ring is tightly closed and secure.

Adding a split ring to your fishing plug is a simple but important step that can help improve your fishing success. With these easy steps and the right tools, you’ll be ready to hit the water and catch some fish!

Why a Split Ring is Essential for Your Fishing Plug

Durability: A split ring helps to keep your fishing plug intact and prevent damage to its components. It also provides better resistance to rust and corrosion, making it a more durable option for your fishing gear.

Flexibility: A split ring provides flexibility in attaching and detaching hooks or other attachments from your fishing plug. This allows you to easily customize your setup for different fishing conditions and species.

Improved Action: A split ring can also help to improve the action of your fishing plug by allowing it to move more freely in the water. This can make your lure more attractive to fish and increase your chances of a successful catch.

Step-by-Step Guide to Adding a Split Ring

Adding a split ring to your fishing plug is a quick and easy process that can make a big difference in your fishing success. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step	Instructions	Image
Step 1	Get your split ring pliers and split ring ready. Make sure they are clean and dry.
Step 2	Insert the tip of the split ring pliers into the split in the ring. Hold the split ring in place with your other hand.
Step 3	Gently twist the split ring pliers to open the ring. Make sure you don’t twist too hard or you could break the ring.
Step 4	Slide the split ring onto the eye of the fishing plug.
Step 5	Gently twist the split ring pliers in the opposite direction to close the ring around the eye of the fishing plug.
Step 6	Give the split ring a tug to make sure it’s securely attached to the fishing plug.

And there you have it! With your split ring properly attached, your fishing plug is now ready to hit the water and catch some fish.

Testing Your Fishing Plug

After you have finished assembling your fishing plug, it is crucial to test it before using it. Testing ensures that the plug will work properly, and you won’t lose any fish.

One way to test your fishing plug is to tie it to your fishing line and throw it in the water. Observe its action in the water and see if it resembles the movements of a real fish.

Another way to test your plug is to pull it across the surface of the water to see how it creates ripples and wakes. This test will also show you if your plug has a realistic swimming motion.

Why Testing Your Fishing Plug is Crucial Before Use

Accuracy: Testing your fishing plug ensures that it works properly and accurately in the water. By testing your plug before use, you can make sure that it is properly balanced and swimming as it should, which can increase your chances of catching fish.

Safety: Testing your fishing plug can also help ensure that it is safe to use. A faulty plug could potentially damage your fishing line, reel, or even injure you or someone else nearby. By testing it beforehand, you can identify and fix any issues before they cause harm.

Confidence: Lastly, testing your fishing plug can give you confidence in your gear. Knowing that your plug is functioning properly and is properly rigged can give you peace of mind and help you focus on fishing rather than worrying about equipment issues.

Frequently Asked Questions