Vintage Tackle Guy

Thanks for the advice OAF! I have come across the same thing. Trouble is, I am not that outgoing so driving up to a strange house and asking them for river access is a difficult thing for me to do. May come to that though. I have a small boat, but sometimes I just want to wet a hook without all the prep. of taking a boat out.

I have, for most of my life, been a river fisherman. I have owned a number of boats and still have a little aluminum 14' with a 9.5 Evinrude but I prefer and understand rivers and streams far better than lakes. My angling has been on hiatus for some time as work, kids and other obligations took up most of my time. But now, I am semi-retired, and I am trying to get back to where I once was...literally. The problem is that the waters I once fished are now inaccessible and I just don't know, other than public access, where to go to spend some time fishing. I would appreciate any help or advice on gaining access to a few spots near me that haven't just been fished to death. I live near Gentry. Best Fishes!

I do a lot of restoration work and I have never found a chemical that will remove film like that and leave the paint/plastic etc. intact. I would choose the lures with the least value, those with other damage and so on. Try soaking them in a solution of warm water with Dawn Dishwashing liquid for various periods of time periodically brushing them gently with a toothbrush and then soaking again. I wouldn't leave a lure in overnight until you are sure they won't become waterlogged. Wood soaks up water and the paint will then peel from the inside out. If you can remove the hooks it will help. Microfiber rags are good and non-abrasive. Also, some automotive waxes contain oils that might help once the worst is cleaned off. You can also try WD40, but again, experiment with a lure that is mostly a lost cause. Be sure to wash off the oil after the film is removed. Bottom line is - patience and persistence, a good toothbrush and hard work. Good Luck! Great haul!