Soft plastic lures are primarily made from two main types of materials: traditional vinyl-based plastics and advanced thermoplastic elastomers (TPE).
Most conventional soft plastic lures are crafted from plastisol, a type of vinyl plastic. This base material is then blended with a variety of additives to give the lure its desired properties, appearance, and appeal to fish.
Components of Traditional Soft Plastic Lures
Traditional soft plastics, centered around a plastisol base, include various elements that contribute to their effectiveness:
- Plastisol (Vinyl Plastic): The primary material that forms the body of the lure, providing flexibility and shape.
- Salt: Often added to provide density, which can affect the lure's sink rate and action in the water.
- Glitter: Incorporated for visual appeal, reflecting light to mimic fish scales or attract attention.
- Color: Dyes are used to create a wide array of colors, from natural baitfish imitations to vibrant attractants.
- Scent: Fish-attracting scents are infused into the plastic to encourage fish to hold onto the lure longer.
- Oil: Used to adjust the softness, texture, and flexibility of the lure.
Advanced Soft Plastic Materials
In addition to traditional plastisol, some modern soft plastic lures utilize advanced materials known as TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomers). These materials offer distinct advantages over their vinyl counterparts:
- Super Buoyancy: TPE lures are often highly buoyant, allowing them to float or maintain a specific position in the water column more effectively.
- Extreme Durability: They are remarkably resistant to tearing and stretching, making them last longer even after multiple fish catches or snags. An example of this type of material is ElaZtech, known for its resilience.
These different material compositions allow anglers to choose lures with specific characteristics that best suit their fishing style and the target species.
