Lure makeovers...

[Fullspectrum]

I got some crank baits that got some rusty hooks and grease.  What would you recommend to use to clean these lures?  I'm thinking about replacing the hooks...although they're still very sharp, but it sort of rusty and they bug me.  Also, thinking about just washing the lures with dish washing soap, then spray them with some kind of scent spray.  Plus, is there anything that can prevent hooks and metal lure lips from rusting?  What would you do?

[Dug]

soak em in coca cola for a couple of days then rinse them.  As for  the hooks, replace them. regardless of how sharp they are, the rust has weakened them to some degree.  Since coke is acidic it will take off most of the grease and grime without adding to the toxic levels of the waters you fish.

Dug

[Fullspectrum]

Coke huh...I'll try that one out later tonight when I get back from work.  As for the hooks...I'll change them.  Thanks!

[Mike Cork]

Definitely replace the hooks, even though still sharp the rust will cause drag when you are trying to get the hook threw the skin of a fish and possibly prevent it from penetrating

I clean my baits with WD-40 it will take the rust right off  To prevent my baits from rusting.... If I am going to store them I spray them with WD-40. If I am just trying to keep my active boxes rust free, first do what ever it takes to keep them dry and then through a couple of the descants you get in various products in my boxes. Works great

[Fishaholic]

those little packets they pack in electronic products and camera products when you purchase them have silica or something like that in them...they remove moisture and are great to put in your boxes to prevent rust on your hooks 

[silversalmon]

Exactly Fish, the ones that you find in there that say do not eat  They are also in shoe boxes as well, save them puppies, if you see someone getting rid of them, grab them. I have a saltwater box, and it is full of those packets, they work great 

[bassmaster350]

gonna have to remember that one fish

[javelin225ho]

wont the coke eat the finish? how about the bills on the cranks? i know if you get laquer anywhere near a bill, its fogged for good......

[Dug]

I never left it on long enough to eat the finish, though I suppose it would if left on too long. Perhaps you should only do 1 or 2 at first to see.

Dug

[macon123]

While replacing hooks, you may wish to use a size larger hook when replacing the rear hooks.....for better hook ups and more landed fish.