How to Make a Paracord Fishing Lure in Seconds!

For any survival kit, fishing is a must. A survival fishing kit is critical for food procurement, and of all the improvised lures you can have in your mental toolbox, a paracord fishing lure is an improvised fishing tool that can help you secure food when resources are scarce. By using durable paracord and a few simple tools, you can craft a survival fishing lure that’s lightweight, effective, and easy to carry. In this guide, we’ll show you step-by-step how to create an emergency fishing lure from paracord. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, preppers, and survivalists, this improvised fishing lure is a must-have skill in your survival toolkit. For more information on survival fishing, check out our DIY Survival Fishing Kit walkthrough. 

Learn how to make a fishing lure from paracord—a fun DIY project that’s more than just crafty. This guide ties into the bigger picture of building a complete survival fishing kit with tools that fit in your pocket. Ideal for emergency preparedness, bug out bags, and ultralight EDC kits.

Why a Paracord Belongs in Your Survival Fishing Kit

A single strand of paracord can do more than just tie things down—it can help you catch dinner.

Making a fishing lure from paracord is not only lightweight and space-saving, it’s a smart addition to any survival fishing kit. Saving cut off bits of parcord means when gear weight and size matter, having tools that pull double duty—like cordage that becomes bait—keeps your kit lean and effective.

Using Paracord for an Improvised Fishing Lure

A paracord fishing lure is a versatile and practical addition to your survival fishing kit. Here’s why it’s an excellent option for emergency fishing situations:

• Durability: Paracord is strong and long-lasting, making it perfect for creating fishing lures that can withstand multiple uses.

• Lightweight: Paracord is compact and doesn’t take up much space in your emergency gear.

• Multi-Purpose: In addition to making fishing lures, paracord can be used for countless survival tasks, from shelter building to fire starting.

• Customizable: You can tailor your paracord fishing lure to mimic local baitfish or insects, increasing your chances of catching fish.

• Readily Available: Paracord is a common item in most survival kits, making this project accessible and easy to execute.

Materials Needed for a Survival Paracord Fishing Lure

Before you start crafting your paracord fishing lure, gather the following materials:

• Paracord: Any color will work, but bright colors or reflective strands can mimic baitfish effectively.

• Fishing hook: Choose an appropriate size for the fish you’re targeting.

• Scissors or a knife: To cut the paracord.

• Lighter or heat source: To seal the ends of the paracord and prevent fraying.

• Thread or fine wire (optional): For extra durability when attaching the paracord to the hook.

Pro Tip: Use brightly colored paracord for visibility or match local insect life for camouflage.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Paracord Fishing Lure

If you don't feel like reading, check out this step by step video below! 

Step 1: Cut the Paracord
Start by cutting a piece of paracord about 3-4 inches long, scrap ends are best if you've got them. This length will determine the size of your lure. Adjust based on the type of fish you’re aiming to catch.

 

Step 2: Attach the Paracord to the Hook
Slide the paracord sheath onto the shank of the fishing hook. Position it so that the end of the paracord aligns with the hook’s eye. This will create a seamless look and ensure the lure stays in place.

Step 3: Secure the Paracord
Using fine thread or wire, wrap the paracord tightly around the hook’s shank. Start near the hook’s eye and work your way down to secure the paracord. Once wrapped, tie off the thread or wire securely to prevent the paracord from slipping.

Step 4: Fray the Paracord
To give your lure a lifelike appearance, fray the end of the paracord by unraveling the strands. This creates a tail-like effect that mimics the movement of small fish or insects in the water.

Step 5: Seal the End
Use a lighter or heat source to carefully melt and seal the end of the paracord near the hook’s eye. This prevents fraying and ensures the durability of your lure.

Step 6: Add Flash (Optional)

For extra effectiveness, add a spinner blade, small bead, or reflective tape to mimic baitfish flash. Secure with knot or melted paracord.

Step 7: Test Your Lure
Test the lure in water to observe how it moves. You can tweak the design by trimming or reshaping the frayed ends to improve its appearance and effectiveness.

And that’s it—your paracord fishing lure is ready to hit the water.

 

Tips for Using Your Emergency Fishing Lure

• Choose the Right Location: Look for areas where fish naturally congregate, such as near rocks, logs, or vegetation.

• Match the Hatch: Try to mimic the size and color of the prey fish in the area for the best results.

• Be Patient: Survival fishing often requires persistence. Allow the lure to move naturally in the water to attract fish.

• Keep Extra Hooks: Always carry multiple hooks in your kit to replace lost or damaged lures.

And that’s it—your paracord fishing lure is ready to hit the water.

Building Your Survival Fishing Kit

A good survival fishing kit goes beyond just a hook and line. Here’s what we recommend: Grim Fishing Card – Over 20 hooks, lures, and fishing tools in a wallet-sized card

• PAK Fishing Kit – Micro hooks and lines in a tiny tin, paired with a patch that hides your kit in plain sight

• Grim Fishing Card – Over 20 hooks, lures, and fishing tools in a wallet-sized card

• Inner strands of paracord for improvised line

• Tiny floats, weights, and spinner blades

• Compact knife or cutting tool

This type of kit is compact, ultra-lightweight, and lives comfortably in a wallet, belt, or tin—ideal for flatpack gear lovers.

 

FAQs: Paracord Fishing Lures for a Survival Fishing Kit

Q: Can a paracord lure really catch fish?
A: Yes! It mimics aquatic insects and baitfish—especially when paired with a spinner or bead.

Q: What’s the best color paracord for fishing lures?
A: Bright orange, red, or chartreuse work well in most waters, but natural tones work for stealthier situations.

Q: Is this better than a store-bought lure?
A: It’s not necessarily better—but it’s field-expedient, reusable, and always with you.

Q: Can I use paracord fishing lures in saltwater?
A: Yes, paracord fishing lures can be used in saltwater, but rinse them with fresh water after use to prevent corrosion of the hook.

Q: What types of fish can I catch with a paracord lure?
A: Paracord lures are effective for catching a variety of fish, including bass, trout, panfish, and other small to medium-sized species.

Q: How long does it take to make a paracord fishing lure?
A: It typically takes about 2-5 minutes to craft a simple paracord fishing lure.

Q: Can I add additional features to the lure?
A: Absolutely! You can attach beads, feathers, or reflective tape to enhance the lure’s appearance and effectiveness.

Q: Is paracord the only material I can use for an improvised fishing lure?
A: No, other materials like feathers, plastic bags, or thread can also be used, but paracord is particularly durable and versatile.

About Grim Workshop

For nearly a decade, Grim Workshop has been a leader in survival tools and EDC innovation. We specialize in creating compact, durable, and versatile gear for outdoor enthusiasts and survivalists. Whether you’re learning how to make a survival fishing lure or mastering other essential skills, Grim Workshop provides the tools and knowledge you need to succeed. Explore our range of survival products and accessories at Grim Workshop.