Ever wonder what makes a fishing lure truly irresistible to a hungry fish? Often, the secret lies not just in the shape, but in the vibrant, lifelike colors painted onto its surface. A dull or poorly colored lure can mean the difference between a banner day on the water and going home empty-handed. Choosing the correct paint for your custom lures is a frustrating puzzle. You worry about durability—will the paint chip after one tough fight? You question adherence—will it stick properly to plastic or wood? And, most importantly, will the color truly mimic the natural bait fish in your local waters?
Navigating the world of epoxy finishes, acrylics, and specialized UV paints can feel overwhelming. That is why this guide is essential. We cut through the confusion to show you exactly what paints professional lure makers use and trust. By the end of this post, you will confidently select the perfect coatings for any environment, ensuring your creations look amazing and, more importantly, catch more fish. Let’s dive into the specifics of paint that works!
Top Paint For Lures Recommendations
- Airbrush Paint Set: HOMY ARTY air brush paint set contains 33 bottles: including 19 vivid common colors, 6 fluorescent colors, 5 metallic colors, also comes with 3 airbrush thinner. Total is 22.11 fl oz. A variety of water based spray paint will meet most of your painting needs without mixing process
- Ready to Spray: Airbrush paints come with high quality air brush flow characteristics and proper ratios,matched well with your airbrush with a smooth consistency and won’t clog it up. 3 airbrush thinner to improve color flow through small airbrushes, also make our colors get the desired density for fine details
- Clean Easily: Our acrylic airbrush paint is water-based and easy to clean with water and soap. The 3 airbrush thinner help you minimize paint accumulation. Extend the life of your airbrush by always keeping nozzle clean before and after use. The paint is waterproof after drying
- Versatile Use: This acrylic airbrush paints great for Artists, Beginners. getting permanent results on paper, shoes, canvas, wood, fabric, leather, plastic, metal, ceramics, model and most mixed media and textile surfaces etc.
- Tips: Pigmentation is normal. Please shake the air brush paint well before use. Recommended to add 1-2 drops of thinner to 10 drops of paint if the airflow of the compressor is below 20 L/min. Airbrush paint can be spray out directly when the airflow of the compressor is 20-23 L/min
- 🎨Safety guarantee & High quality- Made of premium paint material, conforming to ASTM D-4236 and EN71 standards,HissiCo acrylic paint set is in rich pigment, creamy, non toxic and safe for adults, teens and kids’ creative art painting time
- 🖌Nice Color Blending- Acrylic paints can blend, layer and mix well to produce an array of unlimited shades for any craft projects. Each paint has a fantastic thick consistency for art paintings, which will keep brush or spatula marks well and give brilliant texture for your art masterpieces
- 🎨Easy to Use & Store- The acrylic paint set in flip-top squeeze bottles makes it easy to control the flow while applying the paint to arts painting. Comes in a sturdy nice flip-lid cardboard box, the paint set will be easy to store and safe keeping
- 🖌Multifunctional Acrylic Paint Set- HissiCo acrylic paints are versatile in canvas art, painting, scrap booking and even nail arts, suitable for most surfaces, including stretched canvas, wood, glass, card decorating, plastic, craft foam, ceramic, decorative wallpaper, terracotta, blackboard easel, paper and tin
- 🎨24 Vibrant Colors & Rich Pigment- The premium acrylic paint set with 24 unique eye-catching vibrant acrylic colors with 12 brushes and 6 paint knives will offer you vivid colors and better selections to bring your artwork to life. Those highly pigmented colors are great to produce true, consistent shades on painting art, ideal for professional artists, young aspiring artists, painting lovers and kids
- Airbrush Paint Set: Roizefar airbrush kit contains 36colors, including 24 classic colors, 6 neon colors, 6 Metallic colors,also comes with 4 airbrush thinner.A variety of pigment will meet most of your painting demands without mixing process. Each bottle is 20ml
- Ready to Spray: Airbrush Paints come with high quality air brush flow characteristics and proper ratios,they can match well with your airbrush with a smooth consistency and won’t clog it up.4 airbrush thinner to make our colors the desired density for fine details and for improve color flow through small airbrushes
- Easy to Clean: Our air brush painting kit is water-based and easy to clean with water and soap
- Wide Application: This acrylic airbrush paints great for for Artists, permanent results on model, paper, shoes, canvas, wood, fabric, leather, plastic, metal, ceramics and most mixed media and textile surfaces.and so on
- Note:It is normal for the pigment to precipitate. Please shake the paint well before use.It's recommended to add 1-2drops of thinner to 10 drops of paint when the air flow of the compressor is below 20 L/min,if the air flow of the compressor is 20-23L/min,the airbrush paint can be spray out directly
- Professional Results Fast: Quick-curing powder paint completes in under 20 minutes. Creates a durable, high-gloss finish without primer or base coat. Perfect for jig heads, lures, and all fishing tackle. One coat delivers professional-grade results that last through multiple fishing trips. Ideal for creating custom color combinations.
- Efficient Coverage Value: Each 2oz jar covers approximately 375 jigs. Save time and money with no need for primer or additional gloss coats. Perfect for both weekend anglers and serious lure makers. Create consistent, professional finishes for your entire tackle collection.
- Simple Application Process: Three easy steps - preheat the lure, dip it in powder, and let it cool. No complicated mixing or lengthy drying time is required. Easy cleanup makes production quick and efficient. Perfect for batch painting projects and custom tackle creation. Includes detailed instructions for optimal results.
- Enhanced Fish Attraction: Superior high-gloss finish increases underwater visibility and glow properties. Creates eye-catching lures that trigger more strikes in any water condition. Professional-grade shine maintains appearance even after heavy use. Custom colors stay vibrant cast after cast.
- Safe Production Formula: Non-flammable powder coating contains no harmful solvents. Virtually odorless for comfortable workspace conditions. An environmentally conscious choice for lure making. Safe for home workshops and small production facilities. Meets modern safety standards.
- AIRBRUSH PAINT SET: ARTME airbrush paint kit has 42 vivid colors: 29 classic opaque colors, 5 Neon Colors, 8 Metallic colors and 3 Thinner. Perfect as a rich color airbrush paint set, totally meets most of your painting needs with brilliant visual color results. Each bottle is 20 ml/0.7 fl oz.
- HIGH-QUALITY PAINT: Our airbrush paints are made with high-quality pigment, it's non-toxic, waterproof, quick-drying, no fade, and with excellent flow, won't block your precious airbrush. Our acrylic airbrush paint is water-based, it’s easy to clean up your airbrush with water and soap.
- READY TO SPRAY: ARTME airbrush paint uses a better formula with proper ratio. Every color has wonderful airbrush flow characteristics. You can use the paints directly, they can match well with your airbrush with a smooth consistency and won’t clog it up. Airbrush thinner can improve color flow through small airbrushes.
- MULTI-USAGE: ARTME acrylic airbrush paints are designed for permanent results on most mixed-media & textile surfaces. Achieve beautiful results on paper, canvas, model, wood, fabric, leather, plastics, metals, ceramic, and so on. It’s perfect for artists, hobbyist, and DIY enthusiasts.
- USING TIPS: It's normal for the paint to have slight sedimentation. Remember to shake the paint well before use to ensure a consistent texture. Recommended to add 1-2 drops of the included thinner to 10 drops of paint if the air flow of the compressor is below 20 L/min. (When the air flow above 20 L/min no need thinning)
- Airbrush Paint Kit: The airbrush paint set includes 44 colors, including 24 classic colors, 6 neon colors (which glow under UV light), 6 metallic colors, and 8 Iridescent colors. Each bottle contains 20 ml of paint, providing a large capacity for your DIY projects. The water-based spray paint is versatile and can fulfill your various color needs
- 【Ready to Spray】Airbrush paints set is ready to spray, easy to use. Each air brush color has wonderful air brush flow characteristics. You can easily control the dosage when DIY your projects with our airbrush kit. Airbrush paint mixes easily, dispenses well, it may be too thick for airbrush use straight from the vials. Air brush paint works nicely on paper, not mottling. It may needs to be thinned for a typical airbrush application
- 【Wide application】Air brush paints has vivid colors and is water-proof after dried, better for permanent results on model, paper, shoes, canvas, wood, fabric, leather, plastic, metal, glass, clay, rock, stone, ceramics and most mixed media and textile surfaces
- 【Easy to Clean】Our air brush paint kit is water-based and easy to clean with water and soap before dried. You can clean it easily. Please clean the nozzle before and after use
- 【Note】It is normal for the pigment to precipitate. Please shake it before use, remove the leak proof aluminum film before use. The airbrush paint can't spray out when the air pressure of the compressor is small. If you have any question about our air brush paint, please contact us in time, we will do our best to help you
- VIBRANT 5-COLOR SELECTION: Welch Products' ProTec Powder Paint 5-pack includes Hot Pink, Green, Yellow Chartreuse, Black, and Blaze Orange in 2oz jars. Transform jigs and lures into fish-attracting masterpieces with a professional, high-gloss finish that withstands harsh conditions. Craft eye-catching jig heads or customize lures that stand out in any water, boosting your catch rate. Ideal for both freshwater and saltwater fishing, attracting a wide range of species.
- SUPERIOR DURABILITY: ProTec powder paints offer exceptional durability, outperforming liquid options. Our advanced powder coating creates a tough, chip-resistant finish that adheres solidly to jigs and lures. This robust coating withstands repeated casts, strikes, and catches without flaking. Maintain your tackle's appearance and fish-enticing properties across multiple trips, saving time and money on touch-ups. Perfect for anglers demanding long-lasting performance.
- EFFORTLESS APPLICATION: Achieve professional results easily. Heat your jig or lure, dip it into the powder, and watch it melt into a smooth, even coating. This method eliminates drips and brush marks common with liquid paints. Even beginners can create professional-looking lures effortlessly. Our paint dries quickly, allowing rapid production of multiple pieces. Streamline your lure customization process with ProTec, saving time and ensuring consistent quality for your fishing adventures.
- VERSATILE USE: ProTec powder paints offer versatility for all fishing tackle needs. Suitable for jig heads, spoons, spinner blades, and various lure components, this paint adheres well to lead, steel, brass, and other common fishing metals. Customize your gear for any target species or condition, whether freshwater or saltwater fishing. Tailor your tackle to match specific bait or water clarity, maximizing your chances of a successful catch in any fishing scenario.
- ECO-FRIENDLY FORMULA: Welch Products prioritizes performance and environmental responsibility. ProTec powder paints contain no harmful solvents or VOCs, ensuring safety for you and the environment. The powder format prevents spills and messy clean-ups. Choose our eco-friendly option to enjoy your hobby while minimizing environmental impact, preserving clean waters for future anglers. Combine top performance with ecological consciousness for guilt-free fishing adventures.
- If you are needing a color and you do not see it, Please let us know and we will get it
- One-coat coverage with no white primer needed
- No drying time -Pro-Tec's powder paint is perfect for fishing jigs and baits that help you avoid wasting time waiting. No more wet paint finishes that take forever to dry.
- No mixing or settling
- No odor - powder coat paint has no odor or solvents
Choosing the Best Paint for Your Fishing Lures
Making your own fishing lures is fun. Painting them correctly helps catch more fish. This guide will help you pick the right paint. Good paint makes your lures look real. It also keeps them safe underwater.
Key Features to Look For
When buying paint for lures, look for a few main things. These features make a big difference in how long your lures last and how well they work.
Durability and Adhesion
- Strong Stick: The paint must stick well to the lure material (plastic, wood, or metal). This is called adhesion. Bad adhesion means the paint chips off quickly when it hits water or a fish’s teeth.
- Tough Finish: Look for paint that resists scratches and chipping. Fish can be rough! A durable paint job stays bright longer.
Color and Finish Options
- Vibrant Colors: Fish see color underwater. Choose paints that look bright and natural. Check if the paint offers UV-reactive colors. These glow under the water, attracting more strikes.
- Sheen Levels: Do you want a shiny, glossy look, or a dull, matte look? Different finishes attract different types of fish in different conditions.
Drying Time and Ease of Use
- Quick Drying: Fast drying paint saves time. You can apply multiple coats quickly.
- Easy Application: Some paints brush on easily. Others spray on smoothly. Choose what works best for your tools and skill level.
Important Materials: What is the Paint Made Of?
The type of paint determines its strength. Most good lure paints use specific chemical bases.
Acrylic Paints
Acrylics are very popular. They mix easily with water, making cleanup simple. They dry fast and offer great color choices. Many hobbyists prefer acrylics because they are generally non-toxic once fully cured (hardened).
Epoxy Finishes
Epoxy is often used as a top coat, not the main color. It creates a super hard, glass-like shell over your colored paint. This protects the lure from serious damage. It gives the lure a professional, high-gloss look.
Specialty Paints
Some paints are made just for plastic lures. These paints bond chemically with the plastic. They usually offer the best long-term durability against water saturation and abrasion.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
The quality of your final lure depends on more than just the paint brand. Preparation matters a lot.
Quality Boosters
- Surface Prep: Always clean the lure base thoroughly before painting. Remove all oils and dust. A clean surface helps the paint grab hold.
- Priming: Using a dedicated primer coat helps the color layer stick better. It also makes bright colors pop against dark lure bodies.
- Curing Time: Let the paint dry fully, perhaps even longer than the label suggests. Full curing makes the paint much tougher against water.
Quality Reducers
- Thick Coats: Applying paint too thickly causes runs and drips. This ruins the look and weakens the overall coating. Thin, even coats are better.
- Incompatible Finishes: Mixing different types of paint (like oil-based and water-based) can cause the paint to wrinkle or fail to dry properly. Always check compatibility.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you fish when you choose your paint.
Freshwater vs. Saltwater
Saltwater fishing is tough on lures. Salt water is corrosive. For saltwater lures, you absolutely need high-quality epoxy topcoats. Freshwater lures can often use standard, durable acrylics.
Detail Work vs. Speed
If you paint realistic fish patterns, you need fine-tipped brushes and slow-drying paints that allow blending time. If you just need a simple, bright color quickly, use spray cans or fast-drying acrylics.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Lure Paint
Q: Can I use regular craft paint on my fishing lures?
A: You can use it for practice, but regular craft paint usually washes off or chips quickly when submerged. It lacks the necessary durability and water resistance.
Q: What is the best way to clean lures before painting?
A: Wipe the lure down with rubbing alcohol or a mild degreaser. This removes natural oils from your hands and any mold release agents left from manufacturing.
Q: Do I need a special topcoat?
A: Yes, for best results. A two-part epoxy or a clear polyurethane topcoat protects the color layers from teeth marks and abrasion.
Q: How long does it take for lure paint to fully dry?
A: This varies. Most acrylics dry to the touch in under an hour, but they might need 24 to 48 hours to fully cure (harden) before being submerged in water.
Q: Are lure paints safe to use indoors?
A: Many paints are safe, but spray paints and epoxies release fumes. Always work in a well-ventilated area or use a proper spray booth.
Q: What paint works best on soft plastic lures?
A: Look for paints specifically labeled for soft plastics. Standard hard-body paints can sometimes melt or soften the plastic material.
Q: How do I make my colors look more realistic?
A: Use an airbrush for thin, blended layers. Layer lighter colors over darker ones. UV-reactive paints also add realism under the water.
Q: Does paint affect how the lure swims?
A: If you apply very thick layers, especially on small, light lures, the added weight can slightly change the action. Keep coats thin.
Q: Which paint is best for beginners?
A: Water-based acrylic paints are usually best for beginners. They clean up easily with water and do not require harsh thinners.
Q: Can I use automotive paint on lures?
A: Automotive paint is very durable, but it often requires special primers and curing conditions that are hard to meet at home. It can also be too harsh for plastic blanks.