Leaderboard

I have had good luck with Cedar Run baits, yes some must be adjusted but it is minor. The sanding is good also leaving me with less work to do. Plus good service. I have bought from other suppliers but you must find what works for you. Wayne I rather work with wood!

Great responses to the original question. Thanks everyone. Seems I misunderstood.....the bait was wrapped in Pellon wonder web for the textured looking base, then the stripes were added. I really like the randomness of the stripes. I suppose cardboard could be used to make a stencil that would produce random striping. If its done freehand I'll have to admit that I don't have that level of airbrush control just yet.

I've mixed hilite powders with transparent base and it sprays well. You just have to play with base coats to see what gives the best effect.

I have always been satisfied with my blanks from Dinger, and Preadator , both. They seem to have good quality baits.

Pretty much all of these bodies are coming from China, no matter where you buy them from. I have worked in China (non-lure related) and visited many small part factories in the course of my design work. Not all small manufacturers are equal. There are those who produce an accurate shape, but know absolutely nothing about lures. Consequently, the lures do not swim as intended. Others get the swim right but fail to allow for the addition of a topcoat, which changes everything. And then there are companies that know what they are doing, took advice and produce a good product. The girls on the high intensity production line know nothing about your requirements, they are simply trying to keep up and make their quotas. Quality control is often lacking, and so you should expect a few leaky bodies. But, if the lure does not swim right, time to find a new supplier. There is plenty of good advice regards suppliers, see above post(s). I used to be extremely critical of this section of lure 'building', but now I am forced to accept its inclusion in our 'hobby'. Painting is a skill I admire deeply. Still, give me a block of wood any day Dave

No barb or collar? I'd pass and buy some from LPO.

I debated putting this in boat building or on home brew tools. No worries. Put it where it fits.