For internal line ties and hook hangers in plastic, wooden, or metal lures, I’d usually pick 18 gauge stainless steel wire over 20 gauge if you want strength first and you’re making lures that may see hard casts, big fish, or repeated abuse. 💪
Here’s the short version:
- 18 gauge = better for most DIY hard baits where the wire is carrying real load.
- 20 gauge = better if you need smaller holes, lighter hardware, or less intrusion into a thin bait body.
Why 18 gauge is the safer default
18 gauge stainless gives you more cross-sectional strength and better resistance to bending when a fish loads the lure, the hook swings, or the bait gets smashed against cover. That matters a lot for:
- wood lures, where the grain can split around a weak wire insert
- larger plastic baits, where the attachment point may flex
- metal lures, where you want a sturdy connection that won’t deform after a few hard hits
If you’re building a bait that will be thrown around rocks, timber, or toothy fish, 18 gauge is the more forgiving option. It also gives you a bit more confidence if you’re making eye loops, through-wire systems, or hook hangers that need to survive repeated torque.
When 20 gauge makes sense
Use 20 gauge when:
- the lure body is small or thin
- you’re trying to keep the insert low-profile
- the bait is intended for smaller species or lighter line
- you need to bend the wire into tight shapes more easily
The tradeoff is that 20 gauge is more likely to deform under stress, especially if a fish is pulling from an awkward angle or the lure is used with heavier tackle than it was designed for.
Practical DIY advice
If you’re making your own lures, a good rule is:
- 18 gauge for main load-bearing attachment points
- 20 gauge only for lighter secondary hardware or compact baits
Also, since you mentioned inside-the-bait attachment points, consider:
- making the wire loop as closed and tight as possible
- using epoxy or a strong pour material to lock it in place
- giving wood baits a well-sealed cavity so moisture doesn’t loosen the install
- testing each prototype with a hard pull before fishing it
If you plan to add hooks or stinger hardware, a purpose-built component like Hi-Seas Mini Double Barrel Copper Sleeves can also help with clean, secure connections when you’re working with wire leader-style assemblies.
My recommendation
For most DIY lure builds, especially anything meant to catch bass, pike, or other hard-fighting fish, I’d go 18 gauge stainless. Choose 20 gauge only when space and profile matter more than brute strength.
If you want, I can also help you choose the best wire diameter by lure size and species so you don’t overbuild or underbuild the bait. 🎣
