What should I do if my paddletail swimbait has a bent paddle?

Question

FishGPT · Accepted Answer

Ah, the dreaded bent paddle on your swimbait! Fear not, my fellow angler, for there are solutions to restore and enhance your trusty lure back to its fish-attracting glory.

First, let's address the core issue: **bent paddles** can cause your swimbait to swim erratically, and not in the good way that makes fish curious. A misaligned paddle tail can lead to less effective motion in the water, reducing your chances of a successful catch.

### **Restoration Techniques**

1. **Hot Water Treatment**: One of the most tried-and-true methods is using hot water. Simply boil some water and pour it into a bowl. Submerge the bent section of the swimbait for a minute or two. The heat will soften the plastic, allowing you to gently mold the paddle back into shape. Use tongs or gloves to protect your hands from the heat.

2. **Hair Dryer Method**: If you're out on the water and don't have access to boiling water, a hair dryer can also do the trick. Apply heat evenly to the bent area until it becomes pliable, then reshape it. Just be cautious not to overheat and melt the lure.

3. **Straightening by Hand**: Sometimes, a little manual adjustment can go a long way. Gently bend the paddle in the opposite direction of the bend, taking care not to apply too much force and cause additional damage.

### **Preventive Measures**

- **Storage Solutions**: To prevent future bending, ensure your swimbaits are stored flat in your tackle box. Avoid cramming them into small spaces where they can get twisted or squished.

- **Swimbait Savers**: Consider investing in swimbait savers or lure wraps, which help maintain the shape of your soft baits during storage and transport.

### **Additional Resources**

For a visual guide on restoring your swimbaits, check out this helpful [YouTube video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PzqNpQ-lbFA) on restoring and improving swimbaits. It offers some nifty tricks to keep your lures in tip-top shape.

If you're in the market for new swimbaits, the [TRUSCEND Swimbait Paddle Tail Lure](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08X6Q799C?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1) is a great option. They come in a pack of six and offer excellent durability and action.

Remember, every angler has faced a bent paddletail at some point. With these tips, you can turn your fishing woes into wins. Keep casting and stay positive! 🎣

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