A trace analyte collection swab having a collection surface at least partially coated with a microscopically tacky substance to enhance pick-up efficiency is described. In embodiments, the trace analyte collection swab comprises a substrate including a surface having a trace analyte collection area and a coating disposed on the surface of the substrate in the trace analyte collection area. The coating is configured to be microscopically adhesive to collect particles of the trace analyte from a surface when the trace analyte collection area is placed against the surface. In one embodiment, the coating comprises Polyisobutylene.