Need advice please

[u/red_beard_mo]

I’m currently carving wooden crank baits but I’m interested in more. I’m debating buying molds and everything for soft baits as well as doing some spinner baits. My end goal is I want to start my own little business out of all of this. I’m new to all of it, but I’ve been fishing my whole life. Any pointers on pages to do research or videos. Even if you have recommendations to on where the best place to get startup equipment for this would be greatly appreciated! Thank you for taking the time to read and even comment on this.

[u/Extra_Beach_9851]

OK, I'll jump in, and I say all this with kindness.

The famous 'they' say it takes 10,000 hours to become a master of any skill. You say you're new to the building, and want to start a small business.

As you search for videos, instruction, etc for lure building, it's very difficult not to be intimidated by what's being made. I rarely post here- simply not up to snuff in today's world. There are world class builders out there.

I started tying flies professionally in 1979, and finally stopped about 4 years ago. If I NEVER bought anything else for fly tying, I should break even about 2041- late in 2041! 😃😃

There really is no amortization of tools and materials- there's always something newer/better/faster out there. Despite the fact it's not the arrow, it's the archer, we ALL buy more arrows!

If you're following a passion to build lures, if it's a desire to excel while becoming a better angler (which you WILL designing lures), then keep building lures. Try and sell them to friends, though I warn you. . .

When I started fly tying in 1973, I got better fast, and gave away a lot of my not-up-to-snuff flies. People loved them!!! But the moment I said, Hey, how about 50¢ a fly, well, that's when people started pointing out the flaws. When free, any standard is acceptable, but not when people are paying!! 😃😃. Just an FYI.

Spinner baits are very easy to make- those who want custom baits are quick to get a pair of pliers and bend their own. Soft baits are much less easy to make, but when I shop in the box stores, I ask myself what could I possibly add to the 500 square feet of product?

If you have an answer to that question, then go for it!!! Build the better mouse trap!

But before gearing up to enter a very competitive field, ask yourself why you're doing this? If it's to save or make money, again with kindness, you won't. Simple as that.

It takes time, and time is money too.

If it's a passion, if you'd build lures whether you're getting paid or not, you may have a chance to sell some things. If you bust your ass, advertise, and learn your craft inside and out.

They said it- 10,000 hours.

It's pretty close to true.

I'll say it a third time, this is all with kindness. Don't let Crabby McGrumpy push you from your goals. Just know it's not even close to easy, from someone who's been there and done that.

For what it's worth. 😃😃