Ever wonder how some of the most successful anglers consistently pull in trophy fish? The secret often lies not just in their technique, but in the very lure they're using. Commercially produced lures, while readily available, often lack the specific characteristics needed to perfectly match local forage and conditions. They might be the wrong size, color, or action, leaving you empty-handed while others reel in the keepers. That's where mastering the art of lure making with Do-It molds comes in.
Creating your own custom lures empowers you to precisely tailor your bait to the specific needs of your fishing environment. By choosing the right mold, materials, and techniques, you gain complete control over every detail of your lure, maximizing your chances of success. This catalog provides everything you need to design and cast your very own high-quality lures, from detailed mold specifications and material selection guides to expert tips and tricks for producing consistently effective baits. Unlock a whole new level of fishing success and personalize your tackle box with custom creations that are proven to perform.
What can I create and what supplies will I need?
What materials are compatible with Do-It molds?
Do-It molds are primarily designed for melting and casting lead, but they are also compatible with other low-melting-point metals such as tin and bismuth alloys. They are not suitable for high-temperature metals like steel or iron.
Do-It molds are manufactured to withstand the temperatures involved in working with lead and similar metals. Using them with materials that require significantly higher temperatures could damage the mold, potentially causing warping, cracking, or complete failure. This is due to the lower heat tolerance of the aluminum alloys typically used in their construction. When selecting a metal for use with a Do-It mold, it's crucial to check the melting point of the alloy. Alloys with melting points similar to or slightly higher than lead are generally acceptable. However, always prioritize safety and follow the manufacturer's instructions and safety guidelines provided with the mold. Improper use can result in serious injury.Where can I find replacement parts for my Do-It molds?
Replacement parts for Do-It molds, such as replacement injector nozzles, handles, or retaining pins, can typically be found through several avenues. Start by checking the Do-It Corp website directly, as they often have a selection of replacement parts available for purchase. Major retailers of fishing tackle and lure-making supplies, like Bass Pro Shops, Cabela's, and Tackle Warehouse, also frequently stock Do-It mold parts. Finally, independent lure-making supply stores, both online and brick-and-mortar, are a great source for hard-to-find or older replacement components.
Often, identifying the correct replacement part requires knowing the specific model number of your Do-It mold. This number is usually stamped directly onto the mold itself. With the model number in hand, searching online using terms like "Do-It mold [model number] replacement parts" will narrow down your search considerably. Pay close attention to the product descriptions and images to ensure the part you're ordering is compatible with your mold. If you're having trouble finding a specific part, contacting Do-It Corp directly is a good option. Their customer service department can often assist in identifying the correct replacement and may be able to direct you to a retailer who carries it. Additionally, online fishing and lure-making forums can be valuable resources, as other users may have experience sourcing parts for similar molds and can offer suggestions or point you to alternative suppliers.Does the Do-It catalog offer tutorials for beginners?
While the Do-It Molds catalog itself primarily showcases their extensive range of molds and related fishing tackle crafting supplies, it doesn't typically include in-depth tutorials for beginners directly within its pages. Think of it more as a product showcase and resource guide than a comprehensive educational manual.
However, Do-It Corporation understands that many of their customers are new to lure making and related crafts. Therefore, they provide beginner-friendly resources through other channels. You'll likely find tutorial videos, articles, and guides on their website, YouTube channel, and social media platforms. These resources often cover the basics of mold selection, plastic melting techniques, color mixing, and finishing touches. They also frequently collaborate with experienced anglers and lure makers who share their knowledge and tips through these channels. To access these resources, it's best to visit the official Do-It Molds website. Look for sections like "Tutorials," "How-To Guides," or a "Learning Center." Many online retailers that sell Do-It molds also offer beginner guides and advice on their websites, creating a supportive environment for newcomers to the hobby. Also, it is important to research the type of project you intend to create. For example, soft plastic bait creation is different than lead jig making.What's the best way to clean and maintain Do-It molds?
The best way to clean and maintain Do-It molds is to remove excess lead immediately after casting, gently brush them with a soft brush (like a toothbrush) to remove any remaining lead residue, and then store them in a dry environment, preferably with a rust inhibitor or desiccant pack, to prevent corrosion.
After each casting session, while the mold is still warm, use a lead ladle or dedicated tool to carefully scrape away any excess lead flashing that remains attached to the mold halves. This is much easier to do while the lead is still relatively soft. Be careful not to scratch or gouge the mold surfaces. Once the mold has cooled completely, use a soft-bristled brush (an old toothbrush works great) to remove any remaining lead particles, oxidation, or debris from the mold cavities and mating surfaces. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or metal tools, as these can damage the delicate mold surfaces and affect the quality of future castings.
Proper storage is crucial to prevent rust and corrosion. Ensure the mold is completely dry before storing it. You can apply a light coating of rust inhibitor spray to the mold surfaces for added protection, especially if you live in a humid environment. Consider storing your molds in a plastic container with a desiccant pack to absorb any moisture. Avoid storing molds in damp or humid areas, such as basements or garages, as this will accelerate corrosion. By following these cleaning and storage procedures, you can extend the life of your Do-It molds and ensure consistent, high-quality castings for years to come.
Are there any new Do-It mold designs coming out soon?
While I don't have access to a real-time, constantly updated product release schedule directly from Do-It Molds, the best way to stay informed about new designs is to monitor their official website, social media channels, and authorized retailer websites. These are the places where announcements are typically made first.
Do-It Molds regularly introduces new designs to cater to evolving fishing techniques and target species. These new molds often reflect current trends in lure crafting, addressing specific angler needs or mimicking emerging forage types. They might include molds for innovative jig heads, soft plastic swimbaits with unique action, or specialized designs for particular fishing styles like finesse fishing or ice fishing. To anticipate upcoming releases, keep an eye on online fishing forums and communities, where anglers often discuss rumors and speculation about new products.
Consider signing up for email newsletters from Do-It Molds or your favorite fishing tackle retailers. These newsletters frequently include exclusive previews of upcoming products, including new mold designs. Checking the "New Arrivals" or "Coming Soon" sections of tackle retailers' websites is also a good practice. Finally, attending fishing trade shows, such as ICAST, provides an opportunity to see new Do-It Molds designs firsthand and learn about their features directly from company representatives.
How do I choose the right Do-It mold for my needs?
Selecting the right Do-It mold involves carefully considering the type of lure you want to create, the size and weight you desire, the material you intend to use (lead, plastic, etc.), and your budget. Referencing the Do-It molds catalog is essential to identify molds that match these specific parameters.
When navigating the Do-It molds catalog, start by identifying the type of lure you want to make, such as jig heads, sinkers, soft plastic swimbaits, or spinnerbaits. Each category offers various mold designs. Next, focus on the size and weight range you need for your fishing style. The catalog provides detailed specifications for each mold, including cavity sizes and estimated lure weights. Consider the fishing techniques you employ and the species you target to determine the appropriate weight range. Finally, examine the material compatibility of the mold. Some molds are specifically designed for lead, while others are suitable for soft plastics. Using the wrong material can damage the mold or result in poorly formed lures. Pay attention to the number of cavities each mold possesses. More cavities allow for faster production but may require more skill to manage effectively. Evaluate your experience level and production needs to make the best choice. Always consult the catalog's descriptions and specifications for guidance and any material limitations of the mold.What are the differences between the various Do-It mold types?
Do-It molds vary primarily in the type of lure or sinker they produce, the materials they're designed to work with (lead, tungsten, etc.), the number of cavities (how many lures you can pour at once), the size and weight range of the produced items, and the specific features incorporated to create unique lure actions or appearances. This translates into a vast catalog catering to diverse fishing needs, from simple sinkers to intricate swimbaits.
The core differences lie in the intended application. For example, sinker molds are generally simple, focusing on efficient weight production in various sizes and shapes like bank sinkers, drop shot weights, or Carolina rig weights. Jig molds, on the other hand, are more complex, often featuring details for weed guards, hook placement, and collar designs to hold soft plastic trailers. Soft plastic lure molds are perhaps the most diverse, ranging from simple stick baits to highly detailed creature baits, requiring intricate venting and multi-part construction for accurate reproduction. The materials used also impact the mold design; molds for tungsten, which requires higher melting temperatures, are built to withstand greater heat stress than those designed solely for lead.
Beyond the basic categorization by lure/sinker type, Do-It molds also differ in the number of cavities. More cavities allow for faster production, ideal for commercial use or anglers who frequently lose lures. Single-cavity molds offer more precise control and are often used for prototyping or creating custom designs. Finally, molds may include features like interchangeable components to create lures with variations in color or action, or specific texturing to enhance the lure's appearance and feel.
Thanks for taking a peek at our Do-It Molds catalog! We hope you found something to spark your next great fishing adventure. We're always adding new and exciting products, so be sure to come back and visit us again soon. Happy crafting and tight lines!