How to Restore Rusty Fishing Lures

Fishing lures, despite their small size, can be valuable investments, with some vintage ones fetching impressive prices in the collector’s market. Yet, instead of shelling out more money for new lures, why not revive and refresh the ones you already own? With a few simple steps, you can bring back the shine and functionality of your rusty fishing lures without breaking the bank.

Start with Your Tackle Box

1. Clear Out the Clutter: Begin the process by decluttering your tackle box. Remove any old items or unused gear that have been gathering dust for years.
2. Rinse the Box: Wash the interior of your tackle box with warm water to remove dirt and grime.
3. Deep Clean with BKF MORE Spray + Foam: Apply BKF MORE Spray + Foam to tackle box surfaces, allowing it to sit for a few minutes before wiping it clean. For stubborn stains, use BKF powder to make a paste, apply it to the stain, and scrub with a toothbrush.
4. Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the tackle box with water to remove any remaining cleaner residue.

Cleaning Your Lures

1. Remove Hooks and Split Rings: Detach hooks and split rings from the lures for easier cleaning.
2. Rinse with Warm Water: Wash the lures under warm running water to remove loose debris.
3. Gently Remove Dirt: Use a soft cloth or brush to gently remove dirt and grime from the lure’s surface.
4. Apply Bar Keepers Friend Soft Cleanser: Apply Bar Keepers Friend Soft Cleanser to the lure and let it sit for 1 to 2 minutes.
5. Scrub with a Toothbrush: Use a toothbrush to scrub the lure, focusing on areas with stubborn stains.
6. Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the lure with water to remove any cleaner residue.

Removing Rust from Lures

1. Wet the Surface: Dampen the rusty areas of the lure with water.
2. Sprinkle with BKF Powder: Sprinkle Bar Keepers Friend Original Powder Cleanser onto the rusted areas.
3. Let it Sit: Allow the powder to sit on the surface for 1 to 2 minutes.
4. Wipe Clean: Use a soft sponge to wipe away the rust and cleaner residue.
5. For Stubborn Rust: For more severe rust, create a paste using BKF powder and water. Apply the paste to the rusted areas, let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe it clean.

Cleaning Blades and Spinners

1. Apply BKF Powder Cleanser: For metal blades and spinners, use BKF powder cleanser to remove dirt and tarnish.
2. Make a Paste: Create a paste using BKF powder and water, then apply it to the blade or spinner.
3. Wipe Clean: Use a soft cloth to wipe away the paste, repeating the process if necessary for stubborn stains.

Cleaning Hooks

1. Soak in BKF Solution: Place old hooks in a small metal container filled with a solution of BKF powder and water.
2. Let it Sit: Allow the hooks to soak for some time to loosen dirt and debris.
3. Rinse and Dry: Rinse the hooks thoroughly with water, then dry them completely before reattaching to the lures.

By following these steps, you can revive your rusty fishing lures and prolong their lifespan, saving both money and cherished memories on the water.

Image: iStockPhoto
Source: BarKeepersFriend