As a fisherman, you know the value of quality gear when it comes to catching that prized fish. One piece of equipment that often goes overlooked is the humble fishing spinner. These small but mighty lures can make all the difference in your fishing success, but they can also quickly become dirty and dull without proper maintenance.
That’s where we come in. In this article, we’ll show you how to clean fishing spinners like a pro, ensuring that they stay in top condition and continue to catch fish for years to come.
Firstly, it’s important to understand the benefits of cleaning your fishing spinners regularly. Not only does it keep them looking their best, but it also ensures that they perform at their maximum potential, attracting fish with their shiny and vibrant appearance. Additionally, dirty spinners can actually repel fish due to the smell and bacteria that can accumulate over time.
Ready to learn how to clean your fishing spinners? Keep reading to find out our step-by-step guide, recommended tools and products, and common mistakes to avoid.
Table of Contents
Why Clean Your Fishing Spinners?
Fishing spinners are a must-have in every angler’s tackle box. They come in different shapes, sizes, and colors, and are designed to mimic the movement of baitfish in the water. However, after a few fishing trips, these spinners accumulate dirt, debris, and fish scent that can affect their effectiveness. This is why it’s crucial to clean them after every use.
Regular cleaning of your fishing spinners not only ensures their durability and longevity but also enhances their performance. Dirty spinners can affect their ability to spin, wobble, and flash, which makes them less attractive to fish. Therefore, if you want to make the most out of your fishing experience and catch more fish, you should know how to clean your spinners like a pro.
How to Clean Fishing Spinners?
- Step 1: Remove the hook from the spinner and place it in a bowl filled with warm water and mild dish soap. Let it soak for about 10 minutes.
- Step 2: Gently scrub the spinner with a soft-bristled toothbrush to remove dirt and debris. Be careful not to damage the spinner’s finish or bend the wire.
- Step 3: Rinse the spinner with clean water to remove soap residue and any remaining dirt.
- Step 4: Dry the spinner with a clean towel or let it air dry.
Other Tips for Maintaining Your Fishing Spinners
Aside from regular cleaning, there are other things you can do to keep your fishing spinners in good condition:
- Store them in a dry and cool place to prevent rust and corrosion.
- Apply a thin coat of oil or WD-40 to the spinner’s wire to protect it from moisture.
- Inspect the spinner’s blades for cracks or chips and replace them if necessary.
The Bottom Line
Knowing how to clean your fishing spinners is an essential skill for any angler. By following the steps above and taking care of your spinners, you can ensure their longevity and effectiveness, and increase your chances of catching more fish.
When Should You Clean Your Fishing Spinners?
If you’re an avid angler, then you know that cleaning your fishing gear is an essential part of keeping it in good condition. But when it comes to fishing spinners, many people may not know exactly when they should be cleaning them. Here are some tips to help you determine when it’s time to clean your fishing spinners:
Firstly, if you notice that your fishing spinners are not spinning as freely as they used to, or if they’re not attracting fish as much as they used to, it may be time for a cleaning. Additionally, if you’ve been using your fishing spinners in dirty or muddy water, then it’s a good idea to clean them after each use.
Signs That Your Fishing Spinners Need Cleaning
- They don’t spin as freely as they used to
- They’re not attracting fish as much as they used to
- They have a buildup of dirt or grime
How Often Should You Clean Your Fishing Spinners?
As a general rule of thumb, it’s a good idea to clean your fishing spinners after every use. However, this may not always be necessary, especially if you’re only using them in clean water. If you’re using them in dirty or muddy water, then it’s best to clean them after each use to ensure that they continue to work effectively.
Remember, keeping your fishing spinners clean and well-maintained is key to their performance and longevity. By taking the time to clean them properly, you can ensure that they continue to attract fish and provide you with a successful and enjoyable fishing experience.
Tips for Cleaning Your Fishing Spinners
- Use a soft-bristled brush to remove any dirt or grime
- Soak your fishing spinners in warm soapy water for 10-15 minutes
- Rinse them thoroughly with clean water and dry them off with a clean towel
Don’t neglect the maintenance of your fishing spinners, as doing so can lead to reduced performance and shorter lifespan. By cleaning them regularly and properly, you can ensure that your fishing spinners continue to work effectively and help you catch more fish. Keep reading our blog to learn more about proper maintenance of your fishing gear.
What You Need To Clean Your Fishing Spinners?
Keeping your fishing spinners clean is essential for maintaining their functionality and lifespan. Here are the tools you need to effectively clean your fishing spinners:
- Soap or Dish Detergent: You’ll need a gentle soap or dish detergent to clean your fishing spinners. Avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage the lure’s finish or its performance.
- Bowl or Bucket: A bowl or bucket filled with warm water will be used to soak and rinse the fishing spinners.
- Soft-Bristled Brush: A soft-bristled brush like a toothbrush is ideal for scrubbing the fishing spinners without damaging the lure’s finish.
Alternatively, you can purchase a commercial fishing lure cleaner that contains specific ingredients to clean your spinners. However, using simple household items is just as effective and less expensive.
Soap or Dish Detergent
Using a gentle soap or dish detergent is the key to effectively cleaning your fishing spinners. Dish detergents like Dawn or Ivory work well, but make sure to avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the lure’s finish or its performance. Start by filling a bowl or bucket with warm water and adding a small amount of soap or dish detergent.
Bowl or Bucket
You’ll need a bowl or bucket filled with warm water to soak and rinse your fishing spinners. Make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the size of your spinners and use warm, not hot, water. Soaking the spinners in warm water for a few minutes will help to loosen dirt and grime and make them easier to clean.
Soft-Bristled Brush
When it comes to scrubbing your fishing spinners, a soft-bristled brush like a toothbrush is ideal. The soft bristles will clean your spinners without damaging the lure’s finish. Dip the brush into the soapy water and gently scrub the spinner to remove any dirt or grime. Rinse the spinner thoroughly with clean water and dry it with a clean towel.
The Step-by-Step Guide To Cleaning Your Fishing Spinners
Keeping your fishing spinners clean is important to ensure their longevity and effectiveness in catching fish. Cleaning your spinners regularly can prevent rust and corrosion buildup, which can compromise the performance of your lures. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you clean your fishing spinners:
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
Before you start cleaning your fishing spinners, make sure you have all the necessary materials on hand. You will need a small container, warm water, dish soap, an old toothbrush, a soft cloth, and a paper towel.
Step 2: Soak Your Spinners
- Fill the small container with warm water and add a few drops of dish soap.
- Place your fishing spinners in the container and let them soak for 5-10 minutes.
Step 3: Scrub Your Spinners
- Use the old toothbrush to scrub your spinners, paying close attention to any hard-to-reach areas.
- Rinse your spinners thoroughly with warm water to remove any soap residue.
For stubborn stains or buildup, you can use a soft cloth or paper towel to gently scrub the affected areas.
Step 4: Dry Your Spinners
- Pat your spinners dry with a paper towel or soft cloth.
- Leave them out to air dry completely before storing them away.
Properly cleaning your fishing spinners will not only help them last longer, but it will also keep them performing their best. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your spinners are always in top shape for your next fishing trip.
Tips To Extend The Lifespan Of Your Fishing Spinners
As any angler knows, fishing spinners are an essential tool for catching fish. However, they can be expensive to replace, so it’s important to take good care of them to ensure they last as long as possible. Here are some tips to help extend the lifespan of your fishing spinners:
Rinse Your Spinners After Use
After each use, rinse your spinners thoroughly with fresh water to remove any salt or debris that may have accumulated on them during fishing. This will help prevent corrosion and rust from developing on the metal components of the spinner.
Store Your Spinners Properly
When not in use, store your spinners in a dry, cool place, away from direct sunlight. This will help prevent the materials from breaking down due to exposure to the elements. You can use a tackle box, fishing bag or storage container to keep them organized and protected.
Additional Tips:
- Oil Your Spinners Regularly: Use a light oil to lubricate the moving parts of the spinner, which will help prevent corrosion and make it easier to spin.
- Use A Soft Cloth To Clean: Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials when cleaning your spinners, as this can damage the finish or remove the paint.
Conclusion:
Take Good Care Of Your Spinners: By following these tips, you can help extend the lifespan of your fishing spinners and get the most out of your investment. With proper care and maintenance, your spinners can provide years of successful fishing trips.
Common Mistakes To Avoid When Cleaning Fishing Spinners
Properly cleaning your fishing spinners can extend their lifespan and improve their performance. However, there are some common mistakes that you should avoid when cleaning your spinners to ensure that you do not damage them or reduce their effectiveness.
One of the most common mistakes when cleaning fishing spinners is using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials. These can damage the finish or paint on your spinners, and even scratch or bend the hooks, rendering them less effective.
Using the Wrong Tools
- Using a wire brush or steel wool can scratch the finish on your spinners.
- Using a paper towel or cloth that leaves behind lint can clog the spinner blades.
Not Drying Your Spinners Thoroughly
After cleaning your spinners, it’s important to dry them thoroughly. Leaving moisture on your spinners can cause them to rust, which can weaken the hooks and make them less effective at catching fish.
One mistake to avoid is not drying your spinners thoroughly. If you don’t have time to air dry your spinners, you can use a clean towel or cloth to dry them off. Make sure to dry them completely before storing them to avoid rust or other damage.
Storing Your Spinners Improperly
- Leaving your spinners in direct sunlight can fade the colors or warp the plastic parts.
- Storing your spinners in a damp or humid area can cause rust or corrosion.
Proper cleaning and storage of your fishing spinners can help keep them in top condition and improve your chances of catching fish. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can extend the lifespan of your spinners and keep them in great shape for your next fishing trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I clean my fishing spinners?
To clean your fishing spinners, begin by removing any hooks or bait. Next, rinse the spinners in warm water to remove any dirt or debris. If your spinners are particularly dirty, you can use a mild dish soap to clean them. Use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the spinners and then rinse them thoroughly with water. Finally, dry the spinners with a soft cloth to prevent rusting. Soap can help remove stubborn dirt or debris that water alone cannot.
Can I use a dishwasher to clean my fishing spinners?
No, it is not recommended to clean your fishing spinners in a dishwasher. The high heat and powerful jets of water can damage the delicate components of the spinners, such as the hooks or the finish. Stick to hand-washing with warm water and soap to ensure the longevity of your spinners. Hand-washing is the best way to keep your fishing spinners in top condition.
How often should I clean my fishing spinners?
It is recommended to clean your fishing spinners after each use to ensure they stay in top condition. By removing any dirt or debris, you can prevent rusting and extend the lifespan of your spinners. If you fish in particularly dirty or sandy conditions, you may need to clean your spinners more frequently. Each use is the ideal frequency to clean your fishing spinners.
Can I use a metal polish on my fishing spinners?
Yes, you can use a metal polish on your fishing spinners to help remove any rust or tarnish. Apply a small amount of polish to a soft cloth and gently rub the spinners until the rust or tarnish is removed. Be sure to rinse the spinners thoroughly with water and dry them with a soft cloth to prevent any residual polish from damaging the finish. Metal polish is a great option for restoring the shine of your spinners.
Can I soak my fishing spinners in vinegar?
While vinegar can be an effective cleaning agent for some items, it is not recommended to soak your fishing spinners in vinegar. The acidity of vinegar can damage the delicate components of the spinners, such as the finish or the hooks. Stick to using mild soap and warm water to clean your spinners. Mild soap and warm water is the best and safest option for cleaning your fishing spinners.
How can I store my fishing spinners to prevent damage?
The best way to store your fishing spinners is in a dry and cool place, such as a tackle box or a fishing bag. Make sure the spinners are not touching each other, as this can cause scratches or damage to the finish. You can also use a small piece of foam or cloth to wrap each spinner individually for extra protection. A dry and cool place is the ideal storage location for your fishing spinners.