You’re out fishing, and you haven’t been getting many bites. You think that maybe your lure just doesn’t smell as appealing to the fish. Time to break out the gel scent!
By applying a gel scent to your fishing lure, you can make it more attractive to fish and increase your chances of getting a bite. But how do you apply it?
One common challenge is applying the gel scent evenly and not too heavy, as too much gel scent can mess with your fishing lure’s action and also can actually repel fish. Another common challenge is letting the gel scent set on your fishing lure, as this will give the scent time to adhere to the lure and maximize its effectiveness.
Read on for a step-by-step guide on how to apply gel scent to a fishing lure and useful tips that will help you catch more fish.
Note: most links in this article are Amazon.com Affiliate links, see Affiliate Disclosure, thank you.
1. Choose the Right Gel Scent for Your Fishing Lure
The first step in applying gel scent to a fishing lure is choosing the right gel scent.
What kind of fish you’re trying to attract
There are many different scents available, so consider what kind of fish you’re trying to attract and select a scent accordingly.
For example, if you’re fishing for walleye, you might want to use a walleye-specific gel scent. There are also general gel scents that can be used for a variety of fish, and those make great additions to any tackle box.
Different scents available
Try not to limit yourself to one scent. Our favorite brand is Pro-cure gel sent, and they make a gel sent called Trophy Walleye. Both Pro-cure night crawler and crawfish gel are great for enticing a walleye bite.
However, you may find that different scents work better at different times of the year and in different water conditions. Many anglers find that they need to use a variety of scents to be successful.
Pro-cure gel scent is also known as Super Gel.
Consider other factors
There are many different brands of gel scents available on the market, so do some trials to find the best one for your fishing needs.
In addition to the scent, also consider the color of the gel. Atlas Mike’s makes a full line of UV-enhanced gel scents. Some anglers believe that certain colors are more attractive to fish than others.
What gets the most bites is the most important factor, but other factors could include adhesion, lure performance, and local availability.
2. Apply the Gel Scent to Your Fishing Lure
Now that you’ve chosen the right gel scent, it’s time to apply it to your fishing lure!
Dry your lure off
Before applying the gel scent, make sure to dry your lure off. You can do this by lightly wiping it down with a cloth or paper towel.
I like to wash my lure multiple times during my fishing day. Gel scent can slide right off your lure if it is wet or soapy. It only takes a second to prevent that!
Avoid putting gel scent on moving parts
It is important to avoid putting gel scent on the moving parts of your lure because it can reduce your lure’s action. I like placing the gel scent on the hook shank or shank cover tube.
Also, the top back of a diving bill lure is another good location, but avoid the bill because that can affect your back-and-forth action.
Applying the gel scent evenly
Be sure to apply the gel scent evenly. Most gel containers have an easy open applicator tip, but these can apply the gel in a clump. A small stick, like a popsicle stick, can help spread the gel, similar to a butter knife.
If you really want to overthink it, use a small paintbrush to apply the gel sent. Place your clump of gel scent on the lure and use a small disposable paint to even out the coating. Wash and dry your brushes when you are done so you can use them on your next fishing trip.
Of course, you can use your finger, but the scent might remain even after a good washing.
Not applying too much gel scent
You don’t want to overdo it with the gel scent, as too much can actually repel fish. A good rule of thumb is to start with a pea-sized amount of gel scent and add more if needed.
Gel scent can be difficult to clean, so not using more than you require will mean less mess when it is time to clean up at the end of the day.
After you have bought a variety of gel scents, you will realize that they can add up fast. Gel scent is not cheap, so using just what you need is budget-friendly.
Finally, it is always easier to add more gel sent than it is to remove it.
3. Let the Gel Scent Set on Your Fishing Lure
Letting the gel scent set on your fishing lure is important because it gives the scent time to adhere to the lure and maximize its effectiveness.
This step is often overlooked by even the most seasoned fishermen. What is odd to me is the short amount of time for the gel scent to set.
As in the step above, apply an even coat of your get to your dry lure. Then wait 30 seconds before casting or deploying your lure.
Also, you can lightly blow on your lure to help the surface dry. Just be careful not to spit on the Gel scent. Some fish might not like that scent!
4. Fish With Your Gel-Scented Fishing Lure!
Now that you have applied the gel scent to your fishing lure, it is time to fish! There are a few tips that I think might help you out.
Don’t cast hard
A hard cast with your fishing rods can make your gel scent fall off your fishing lure. Instead, try soft swinging casts to lay your fishing lures into the target position. Fish bite when they are overwhelmed by the action and smell of your lure, so the cast is not everything.
When trolling, limit your speed
If you are trolling, try to limit your speed. A good rule of thumb is 2 miles per hour over water to prevent removing the gel scent from lures, but slower is better.
Re-apply gel scent
As your fishing day goes on, you might need to re-apply the gel scent to your lure. The same rules apply as when you first applied the gel scent. Dry off your lure, apply an even coat, and let it set for 30 seconds before fishing.
5. Wash Your Lure
When you are done fishing for the day, make sure to wash your lure. This will remove any gel scent and dirt that might have accumulated during your fishing trip.
You can use a mild soap like lemon Joy and warm water to clean your lure. Be sure to rinse well and air dry before you put them in your tackle box.
Soft Baits and Gel Scent
Gel scent can be used on soft baits as well. The process is a little different, but the same general rules apply.
filling your soft bait
First, you need to make a small slit in the bait with a sharp knife. Be careful not to cut yourself! Next, insert the gel scent into the slit. Try not to overdo it. As your fish the soft bait a small amount of the gel scent will leak out, spreading the scent throughout the water. Add a bit more scent as you fish once the scent appears to be gone.
Soaking your soft bait
Another method of using gel scent on soft bait is to reapply the gel scent. The night before your fishing trip, place a few baits in a ziplock bag or plastic container.
Add a small amount of the gel scent, about one pea size piece per soft bait. Mix the soft baits around the bag until they are well coated. This method is a great way to add a scent to artificial baits.
Of course, you can add your gel scent to the surface of soft bait, but it tends not to stick as well as a hard bait style lure. Also, these methods require fewer applications.
The soft baits also work on a variety of species, like bass, crappie, catfish, and trout, so that it could lead to more fish caught.
Conclusion
Applying gel scent to a fishing lure can help attract fish. When applying the gel scent, be sure to choose the right scent for the fish you are trying to attract, apply the gel evenly, and let it set before fishing. When you are done fishing for the day, wash your lure to remove any gel scent and dirt.
By following these steps, you will be sure to increase your chance of having a successful fishing trip!
FAQ
Does scent on lures work?
Scent on lures does work, but it needs to be applied properly in order for it to be effective. Make sure you choose the right scent for the fish you are trying to attract and apply it evenly. Letting the gel scent set before fishing will also help increase its effectiveness.
How long does gel scent last on a fishing lure?
Gel scent will last on a fishing lure for a few hours. If you are fishing in saltwater, it might only last for an hour or less in fast water. You can re-apply the gel scent as needed throughout the day.
What is the best gel scent for fishing?
There is no one “best” gel scent for fishing. Consider what kind of fish you are trying to attract and choose a scent accordingly. There are many different scents available, so ask your local bait and tackle shop for recommendations. Also, don’t be scared to try something different on slow days. You never know what might catch more fish.
Should I use gel scent when trolling in a boat?
Gel scent can be used when trolling in a boat, but you need to be careful not to apply too much. The gel scent will spread out behind the boat and create scent dispersion. If you are using bait that does not have a strong scent, like a soft plastic worm, adding a gel scent might increase your hookup ratio.
