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

June 20, 2025
by
2 mins read

Listen in to the DEEP DIVE discusion of this topic.

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.

About PEETZ

Boris Peetz is credited with the innovation of the first PEETZ reel, which likely began its commercial journey in 1924. This was a notable year not only for the introduction of the reel but also for the completion of the Johnson Street Bridge, a significant landmark. The PEETZ reel has since become a respected name in fishing equipment, symbolizing quality and craftsmanship in the angling community.

PEETZ Social Media

Best Rated

Since 1925

Popular

2

Find your trout

If you can find trout, you are one step closer to catching them. The key is knowing where to look.Trout come in
3

KIKO Lures for Salmon

The Salmon Salmon are considered the ultimate game fish because of their tremendous power, speed and stamina. These traits are present because

Authors

Previous Story

A love for fishing, a respect for tradition…

Next Story

Why pick Red?

Latest from Blog

The Art of Creating Unique Fishing Lures

Embrace Originality: The Art of Creating Unique Fishing Lures In the vibrant world of fishing, creativity is as crucial as the perfect bait. Fishing lures are not just tools to catch fish; they are expressions of individuality and innovation. However, we’ve seen an unfortunate trend where many individuals choose to

PAL Now Under the PEETZ House of Tackle: A Historical Perspective

Listen in to the DEEP DIVE discusion of this topic. The landscape of fishing tackle and lure manufacturing on the West Coast has a rich history, intertwined with pioneering entrepreneurs and resilient businesses that have left an indelible mark on the community. Among these storied enterprises are PEETZ, renowned for

Find your trout

If you can find trout, you are one step closer to catching them. The key is knowing where to look.Trout come in two main species: stream trout and lake trout. Stream trout can be broken up into four major species: brook trout, brown trout, rainbow trout and cutthroat trout. Though,

KIKO Lures for Salmon

The Salmon Salmon are considered the ultimate game fish because of their tremendous power, speed and stamina. These traits are present because salmon are anadromous, meaning they spend their adult life at sea and swim long distance to return to their freshwater spawning grounds. During this trek, salmon often vault

PEETZ Celebrates a Century of Craftsmanship and Resilience

Reaching the 100-year milestone is a rare and remarkable achievement, especially in the competitive world of fishing gear manufacturing. PEETZ, a trusted name across Canada, has built a legacy rooted in quality, durability, and a deep love for the sport of fishing. At the heart of this enduring success is
GoUp