What is the fundamental difference between glow and UV fishing lures?

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Glow lures act like a sponge, absorbing light, holding it, and then emitting that light back out once the light source is removed. UV lures, on the other hand, are designed with a reflective coating that uses the sun’s rays to appear brighter underwater than other lures, simply by reflecting available light.

How do water depth and clarity affect the effectiveness of UV and glow lures?

Water depth and clarity significantly impact how different colors and light waves penetrate. UV light can travel down to about 40 meters, making UV lures effective in shallower, clearer, or even murky and algae-filled water where sunlight can still penetrate and reflect off the lure. Glow lures are more effective in deeper waters or during low-light conditions (first/last light of the day) where there is insufficient UV light for reflection, as they emit their own stored light.

What are fluorescent, pearlescent/metallic, and iridescent paints, and how do they relate to UV?

These are three types of paint that reflect UV light. Fluorescent paints become bright and lively only when UV light waves shine on them, but they do not glow in the dark without UV. Pearlescent/metallic UV paints contain shiny particles that resemble pearl or shimmering gold when reflecting UV light. Iridescent paints reflect any light waves, including UV, and appear to change color from different angles, similar to soap bubbles. All three rely on the presence of UV light to become visible or vibrant.

How do fish perceive UV and glow lures?

Fish can see the UV light wave spectrum, and they often hunt their food by detecting the UV reflecting off natural bait. Therefore, UV lures can be very effective by mimicking this natural reflection. Glow lures, by emitting their own light in dark environments where UV is not present, can attract fish by providing a visible light source in otherwise unlit conditions.

How long do glow lures typically glow, and how can they be charged?

Most glow lures charge up in a couple of seconds and glow for a maximum of 30 minutes. However, some higher-quality glow paints may take a few minutes to charge but can glow for a couple of hours. Glow lures can be charged using UV from the sun, an LED flashlight, or a UV LED flashlight before being deployed into deep waters where natural UV light is absent.

When is it best to use UV lures versus glow lures?

Use UV lures on days when the water is filled with algae or is murky, or in shallower, sunny conditions, as the sunlight can reflect off the UV lure to attract fish. Use glow lures when fishing deep, or during the first or last light of the day, ensuring they are charged up before being put into the water.

Can UV and glow features be combined in a single lure?

Yes, it is possible to combine both UV coating and glow features in a single lure. This combination offers the best of both worlds, making the lure versatile and effective across a wider range of conditions, particularly useful for activities like ice fishing where light conditions can vary significantly.

What are some practical tips for maximizing the effectiveness of UV and glow fishing gear?

For maximum effectiveness, consider adding UV tape to spoons or plugs to enhance their visibility, or include thin strips of UV flash along the side of bait from teaser heads. Always charge glow lures thoroughly before deploying them into deep or dark waters. Understanding the specific conditions (water depth, clarity, time of day) will help you choose between UV, glow, or a combination lure for the best results.