How to Make Popper Lures for Bass

old bass lure image by Jeffrey Sinnock from <a href='http://www.fotolia.com'>Fotolia.com</a>

Many bass anglers recognize the attracting power of a popper lure. The popping and gurgling action created on the surface by these lures can result in explosive top-water hits by bass. You can buy popper lures from retailers, but you can also make your own popper lures at home with minimal supplies. Making your own popper lures is a great way to save money, create custom lures and involve young anglers in another aspect of the sport.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Bottle cork
Sandpaper
Knife
Long shank hook
Waterproof glue
Paint
Hobby brush

Step 1

Choose a cone-shaped bottle cork for the project. Sand the cork to smooth and round its smaller end.

Step 2

Place the cork on a sturdy work surface. Cut a 1/4-inch-deep slit down the center of the cork with a kitchen, pocket or hobby knife. Cut the slit so that it is no deeper than 1/4 inch on the large end of the bottle cork.

Step 3

Insert a long shank hook into the slit made in the cork. Position the hook so that only the eye extends from the front, or large end, of the cork. Choose a hook that is in proportion to the cork, with the bend of the hook extending only slightly beyond the smaller end of the lure.

Step 4

Apply a thin line of waterproof glue along the slit and shank of the hook. Place a small drop of glue around the lower shank or bend of the hook where it exits the cork popper. Use a small drop of glue at the front of the popper where the eye exits the popper, making sure to keep the eye of the hook free of glue.

Step 5

Allow the glue to cure overnight before continuing with work on the popper. Paint the popper with model paint to resemble a frog, toad or other natural bait. Allow one coat of paint to completely dry before applying another. Paint eyes on the popper to add further realistic detail.

Article Written By Keith Dooley

Keith Dooley has a degree in outdoor education and sports management. He has worked as an assistant athletic director, head coach and assistant coach in various sports including football, softball and golf. Dooley has worked for various websites in the past, contributing instructional articles on a wide variety of topics.

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