I use Zinsser cover stain oil base primer sealer. I cut it to 60/40 and put the mix in a gallon pickle jug. Dunk about 5 plugs at a time and let them soak for about a cold one! Dig em out and hang them to drip dry. That seals not only the outside, but the inside gets soaked also. I let them dry as long as it takes (usually this is about a couple of hours and they can be handled).
By the way, I do all drilling for weights and hooks before doing any sealing.
A light sanding is all that is required before the finish is applied. After finishing with createx paints a final epoxy finish is applied.
As a side note: I really don't expect a plug to last more than one season. If you get into blues, you are lucky to have the finish one hour. I think Bassmaster was the one who brags about his plugs when they are chewed to hell, and I would have to agree with that philosophy!!
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