Curing Eggs for Salmon Fishing

Curing eggs for salmon fishing is a process that involves preserving and enhancing the scent and texture of fish eggs to make them more attractive to salmon.

Here's a Basic Method for Curing Eggs for Salmon Fishing:

1. Collect Fresh Salmon Eggs: Obtain fresh salmon eggs from a fish you have caught or purchase them. Make sure the eggs are fresh and in good condition.

2. Clean the Eggs: Gently rinse the eggs in cold, clean water to remove any blood, slime, or debris. Be careful not to damage the eggs during this process.

3. Prepare the Curing Mixture: There are different curing mixtures available commercially, or you can make your own. A common curing mixture consists of non-iodized salt and sugar. You can experiment with different ratios to find the one that works best for you. A simple starting point is a 50/50 mixture of non-iodized salt and sugar.

4. Apply the Curing Mixture: Sprinkle a layer of the curing mixture on the bottom of a container. Place a single layer of eggs on top of the mixture. Sprinkle another layer of the curing mixture over the eggs. Continue layering the eggs and curing mixture until all the eggs are covered. Make sure to coat each egg evenly.

5. Cure the Eggs: Cover the container and place it in the refrigerator. The curing process typically takes several hours to a few days, depending on personal preference. The longer you cure the eggs, the firmer and drier they will become. Many anglers prefer a softer cure for salmon fishing.

6. Rotate the Eggs: During the curing process, occasionally rotate the eggs by gently stirring them. This helps distribute the curing mixture evenly and ensures all the eggs are exposed to the curing process.

7. Check the Eggs: After the desired curing time, check the eggs for the desired texture and scent. They should be firm but slightly pliable, with a strong smell. If you prefer a softer texture, you can shorten the curing time. If you want a firmer texture, you can extend the curing time.

8. Store the Cured Eggs: Once the eggs are cured to your liking, remove them from the curing container and gently wipe off any excess curing mixture. Drain the excess moisture and allow the eggs to air dry for a short period. Afterward, store the cured eggs in a sealed container or plastic bag in the refrigerator until you're ready to use them.

Remember, the curing process can vary depending on personal preferences, the brand of egg cure instruction, and fishing conditions. Don't be afraid to experiment with different curing mixtures and techniques to find what works best for you.

Find All Our Salmon Bait and Curing Mixtures Here.