Before getting too carried away with a new hobby, I thought I might start by painting some battered and bruised crankbaits.  Do any of ya'll recommend a good paint stripper and, afterwards, a good (preferably white) primer?

Also interested.

Question to ask is, is the paint acrylic or enamel?

 

If it's acrylic - a soak in undiluted Simple Green Pro will loosen and remove the paint.

 

If it's enamel - need something stronger...mineral spirits or a paint thinner labeled for oil based enamel.

 

As far as the primer - no suggestion.

Many who repaint crankbaits do not bother to strip the paint from them.  Use a scotchbrite pad to break the surface, remove any persistent staining and dirt and then cover with a good opaque white base coat.   Base coat will provide a new clean surface for all future paint to adhere to.   I have used rattle can primer with good results, it is easy inexpensive and works well.  Many paint crankbaits with acrylic paints and inks, and you can also use a good acrylic based opaque white to base coat with.  My personal favorite is Wicked Opaque White.