By Tackle Warehouse | Updated September 2023
After a long season of fishing some of your bladed lures, like spinnerbaits and umbrella rigs, might need a tune-up. Changing the blades is a great way to bring lures back to life and save yourself money by not purchasing entirely new lures. Incredibly easy and inexpensive, replacing blades on older lures will get your tackle arsenal back in top-notch condition before the next fishing season. It also gives anglers the opportunity to customize baits with different color blades, sizes, and blade styles to create a unique presentation.
- Split Ring Pliers- Round Nose or Needle Nose Pliers- Replacement Blades
First, open the split ring with a set of split ring pliers. Work the eyelet of the blade into the middle of the split ring then rotate the split ring to remove the blade. To add a new blade simply reverse the process.
Now is a good time to double check the swivel, split rings, and hardware on your spinnerbaits or umbrella rigs for rust or corrosion and make sure they don’t need to be replaced as well.
Typically, the split rings on spinnerbaits are usually on the smaller end of the spectrum and you may need to invest in a set of small split ring pliers to effectively replace the blades.
To replace the blades that are attached to the arm of your spinnerbait by clevises you will need a set of round nose pliers or needle nose pliers. Start by carefully opening up the bend on the end of the spinnerbait arm and try to get it as straight as possible. Remove the hardware and keep all the components in the order they came off the spinnerbait so that you don’t forget how they are supposed to go back on. This is an important step because the spacing between each blade is crucial for keeping your spinnerbait balanced and running true.
Slide the old blade out of the clevis and replace with a brand new blade of your choice. Replace all the componentry in the order it came off the spinnerbait arm and make sure the cupped portion of the blade is facing down towards the spinnerbait arm. Carefully bend the wire back to a loop to keep the components secure and you're ready to fish.
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