Looking for the best clear coat for fishing lures?
Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a hobbyist, you know that having the right lure can make all the difference when it comes to catching fish.
But what good is a well-crafted lure if the clear coat protecting it wears off easily or turns yellow over time? That’s where finding the right clear coat comes in.
When it comes to choosing a clear coat for your fishing lures, there are several factors to consider.
You’ll want a clear coat that is compatible with the base coat used on your lure, as well as one that is hard enough to resist damage from sharp fish teeth.
It should also be flexible enough to remain adhered if the lure is dented, especially if you’re using wood lures.
Additionally, you’ll want to avoid yellowing and discoloration over time, and the clear coat should be easy to work with. With so many options on the market, it can be tough to know where to start.
But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best clear coat options for fishing lures, and what makes them stand out.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, we’ll help you find the perfect clear coat to keep your lures looking their best and catching fish for years to come.
What are Clear Coats?
The clear coat is an essential component that helps protect the lure from the harsh underwater environment.
Clear coatings are available in various forms such as paint, lacquer, varnish, and more. A clear coat is a transparent layer of protection that is applied over the base coat.
Clear coats are known for their strength and durability. They help to protect the base coat from scratches, chipping, and fading.
The hardness of the clear coat is essential when it comes to fishing lures. The harder the coating, the more resistant it is to damage.
You want a clear coat that is hard enough to protect the lure from damage but not so hard that it becomes brittle and cracks easily.
The film hardness of the clear coat is measured using the pencil hardness test.
The test involves scratching the surface of the coating with a pencil of a specific hardness, usually from the hardest pencil to the softest one.
The hardness of the pencil that leaves a mark on the coating indicates the coat’s strength. The higher the hardness rating, the more resistant the coating is to scratches and damage.
When selecting a clear coat for your fishing lures, it is essential to choose one that is compatible with the base coat used on the lure. The clear coat should also be easy to work with and avoid yellowing or discoloration over time.
DiamondFinish Clear is a moisture-cured coating that is highly recommended for fishing lures.
It is known for its hardness and flexibility, making it ideal for protecting fishing lures from damage. DiamondFinish Clear is also easy to work with and does not yellow or discolor over time.
Types of Clear Coats
Before diving into the best options on the market, you should understand the types of coats and their features.
In this section, we will discuss the three most common types of clear coats: Water-Based Clear Coats, Oil-Based Clear Coats, and Polyurethane Clear Coats.
Water-Based Clear Coats
Water-based clear coats are an eco-friendly option that is easy to clean up with water.
They are non-toxic and have a low odor, making them perfect for indoor use.
Water-based clear coats are also known for their quick drying time, which is beneficial for those who want to finish their lures quickly.
However, they are not as durable as oil-based or polyurethane clear coats and may require multiple coats for a smooth finish.
Oil-Based Clear Coats
Oil-based clear coats are known for their durability and resistance to scratches and abrasions.
They are also resistant to water and chemicals, making them ideal for fishing lures that are frequently exposed to water.
Oil-based clear coats are easy to apply and provide a glossy finish. However, they have a strong odor and require proper ventilation during application.
They also take longer to dry compared to water-based clear coats.
Polyurethane Clear Coats
Polyurethane clear coats are a popular choice for fishing lures due to their advanced cross-linked coatings technology.
They are highly durable and provide excellent resistance to scratches, abrasions, and chemicals.
Polyurethane clear coats are also resistant to UV rays, which prevents yellowing and discoloration over time.
Much like oil-based coats, these are easy to apply and provide a glossy finish, but they take longer to dry and need ventilation.
In conclusion, each type of clear coat has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Consider your needs and preferences when selecting the best clear coat for your fishing lures.
Top Quality Clear Coats
Here are some of the top quality clear coats available for fishing lure makers:
DiamondFinish Clear
DiamondFinish Clear (check price on Amazon), by KBS Coatings, is a popular choice among fishing lure makers.
Perhaps the most versatile, this ultra-long lasting, moisture-cured clear coat is designed to add body, depth, and a rich gloss to your fishing lures.
It is compatible with a variety of base coats, including wood, plastic, and metal, and is known for its durability and resistance to yellowing or discoloration over time.
Envirotex Lite
Envirotex Lite is another popular choice for clear coating fishing lures.
This two-part epoxy resin system provides a high-gloss finish and is known for its durability and resistance to chipping, cracking, or peeling.
It is also compatible with a variety of base coats, including wood, plastic, and metal.
Flex-Coat
Flex-Coat is a flexible, high-gloss finish that is designed to remain adhered to lures even if they are dented or scratched.
This two-part epoxy system is also very resistant to yellowing and it works with all types of base materials.
Solarez UV Cure
Solarez UV Cure is a unique clear coat that is cured using ultraviolet light.
This fast-drying system provides a high-gloss finish, creating a professional look. You can use it on every base coat you wish.
Overall, there are many quality clear coats available for fishing lure makers.
When choosing a clear coat, it’s important to consider factors such as compatibility with your base coat, durability, resistance to yellowing or discoloration, and the desired level of gloss or finish.
Clear Coats for Different Materials
Not all clear coats are created equal, and different types of lures require different types of clear coats.
In this section, we will discuss the best clear coats for wood, plastic, and metal lures.
Clear Coats for Wood Lures
Wood lures, especially those made from balsa wood, require a clear coat that is flexible and does not add weight to the lure.
One of the best options for wood lures is a two-part epoxy clear coat, such as KBS DiamondFinish Clear Coat.
This type of clear coat is easy to apply, dries quickly, and provides a hard, durable finish that is resistant to damage from fish teeth. It can be used for other base coats too, but I think it’s the most suitable for wood lures.
Another option for wood lures is a water-based polyurethane clear coat, such as Minwax Polycrylic.
This type of clear coat is easy to apply and dries quickly, but it may not be as durable as an epoxy clear coat.
Clear Coats for Plastic Lures
Plastic lures, such as soft plastics or hard plastic crankbaits, require a clear coat that is compatible with the base coat used on the lure and does not cause the lure to become brittle or crack.
One of the best options for plastic lures is a UV-cured clear coat, such as Solarez UV Cure Clear Coat.
This type of clear coat is easy to apply and dries quickly when exposed to UV light, providing a hard, durable finish that is resistant to damage from fish teeth.
Another option for plastic lures is a two-part epoxy clear coat, such as Devcon 2-Ton Epoxy. This type of clear coat is easy to apply, dries quickly, and provides a hard, durable finish, but it may not be as flexible as a UV-cured clear coat.
Clear Coats for Metal Lures
Metal lures, such as spoons or spinnerbaits, require a clear coat that is compatible with the metal and does not cause the lure to become brittle or crack.
One of the best options for metal lures is a two-part epoxy clear coat, such as Envirotex Lite. This clear coat provides with everything you could expect from a quality product.
Another option for metal lures is a spray-on clear coat, such as Rust-Oleum Crystal Clear Enamel. This type of clear coat is easy to apply and dries quickly, but it may not be as durable as an epoxy clear coat.
Always choose a clear coat that is compatible with the base coat of your lure, and consider the flexibility, weight, and resistance to damage from fish teeth when making your selection.
Enhancing Lure Appearance
A well-crafted lure with a stunning appearance is more likely to attract fish than a dull-looking one.
Clear coats are an essential component in enhancing the appearance of fishing lures.
They add depth, body, and a rich gloss to the lure, making it more attractive to fish.
In this section, we will discuss how you can enhance the appearance of your fishing lures using clear coats.
Adding Glitter
One way to make your fishing lures more attractive is by adding glitter to the clear coat.
Glitter adds sparkle and shine to the lure, making it more visible to fish.
DiamondFinish Clear is an ideal clear coat for suspending glitter in your finishes. It is a single-component coating that is user-friendly and can be sprayed onto lures, applied with a brush, or the lure can be dipped in the clear coat.
As I mentioned before, DiamondFinish Clear is also compatible with the base coat used on the lure, hard, flexible, and avoids yellowing and discoloration over time.
Tinting Clear Coats
Tinting clear coats is another way to enhance the appearance of your fishing lures.
Tinting the clear coat with color can add a unique touch to your lures and make them stand out from the rest.
DiamondFinish Clear can be tinted with color, making it an excellent choice for lure makers who want to add color to their lures.
Maintaining Clear Coat Durability
The durability of your clear coat is essential in ensuring that your fishing lures last longer.
A tough and cured clear coat will protect your lure from moisture, scratches, and cracks.
To maintain the durability of your clear coat, you need to ensure that it is applied correctly.
The clear coat should be applied in thin layers and allowed to cure properly. Moisture-cured clear coats are highly recommended as they will cure even in high humidity conditions.
Once cured, you can maintain the durability of your clear coat by avoiding exposing your lures to harsh conditions such as extreme heat or cold. Keep your lures in a cool and dry place when not in use. Avoid exposing your lures to direct sunlight for extended periods as this can cause the clear coat to crack.
Regularly inspect your lures for any signs of wear and tear. If you notice any cracks or scratches on the clear coat, it is best to reapply a new layer of clear coat. This will ensure that your lures remain protected and durable.
Use a tough and cured clear coat such as the DiamondFinish Clear, apply it correctly, and avoid exposing your lures to harsh conditions.
Safety Measures and Instructions
When working with clear coat for fishing lures, it is important to take certain safety measures to ensure that you do not harm yourself or others. Here are some instructions to follow:
- Always work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling harmful VOCs (volatile organic compounds) that are present in most clear coat products.
- Wear protective gloves and a mask to avoid skin contact and inhalation of harmful chemicals.
- Keep the clear coat away from heat sources, sparks, and flames, as it is highly flammable.
- Do not smoke or eat while working with the clear coat.
- Dispose of any leftover clear coat and applicators properly, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
In addition to safety measures, it is important to follow instructions when using clear coat for fishing lures. Here are some tips to help you get the best results:
- Read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, as each product may have different application methods.
- Apply the clear coat in thin, even layers to avoid drips and bubbles.
- Allow each layer to dry completely before applying the next layer.
- Sand the lure lightly between each layer to ensure adhesion.
- Store the clear coat in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
When choosing a clear coat for fishing lures, consider the user-friendliness of the product.
Some clear coats may be easier to apply than others, and some may require more preparation or equipment. Choose a product that fits your level of experience and equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of clear coat is best for swimbaits?
When it comes to swimbaits, a durable and water-resistant clear coat is important. Epoxy clear coat is a popular choice for swimbaits because it provides a hard, glossy finish that can withstand the wear and tear of fishing. Some anglers also prefer UV-cured clear coats because they dry quickly and are less likely to yellow over time.
What is the Diamond Finish Clear coat and is it good for fishing lures?
Diamond Finish Clear is a high-quality, single-component clear coat that is ideal for fishing lures. It is easy to apply and provides a hard, glossy finish that is resistant to chipping, cracking, and fading. Diamond Finish Clear can be used on a variety of lure surfaces, including jig heads, and can be tinted with color or used to suspend glitter in your finishes.
What is the KBS Diamond Clear and how does it compare to other clear coats for lures?
KBS Diamond Clear is a high-quality, two-part clear coat that is designed to provide a hard, durable finish for fishing lures. It is resistant to chipping, cracking, and fading, and can be used on a variety of lure surfaces, including jig heads. Compared to other clear coats for lures, KBS Diamond Clear is known for its exceptional clarity and ability to resist yellowing over time.
What is the best way to seal and finish jig heads?
Jig heads can be sealed and finished using a variety of clear coats, including epoxy, UV-cured, and single-component clear coats. The best way to seal and finish jig heads depends on your personal preference and the type of lure you are making. Some anglers prefer to dip their jig heads in clear coat, while others prefer to brush or spray it on.
What is the UV clear coat for fishing lures and how does it work?
UV clear coat is a type of clear coat that is cured using ultraviolet light. It is popular among anglers because it dries quickly and is less likely to yellow over time. UV clear coat works by using a photoinitiator that reacts to UV light, causing the clear coat to harden and cure.
Is epoxy clear coat a good choice for fishing lures?
Epoxy clear coat is a popular choice for fishing lures because it provides a hard, glossy finish that is resistant to chipping, cracking, and fading. It is also easy to apply and can be used on a variety of lure surfaces, including jig heads. However, some anglers prefer other types of clear coats for their lures, depending on their personal preference and the type of lure they are making.
