Leaderboard

The insert is not "Just in the lead" It is connected to the hook eye and has very little chance in pulling out. About the same chance as a spinnerbait hook pulling off. Hard lead would help if you are worried. This finesse technique generally uses lighter line and softer rod that wont pull hard enough to worry about.

I like runny superglue, especially for lightweight woods like balsa. It soaks in and fixes the hairy surface, allowing it to be sanded to a smooth finish. A second coat is required to seal any areas that the sanding operation may have disturbed. CA glue (super glue) dries fast, but I would still give it time. I am not a painter so I am just being cautious for you. I would be interested in any comments on time before painting after CA application. Dave

Bob's right. Either epoxy or, for me anyway, super glue will give both waterproofing and strength. In my experience, transparent base is used to either thin paint so it's more transparent, or, the way I use it, to apply glitter to a finished paint scheme with a brush. It is not a protective film layer, or a wood sealer to be used prior to painting.

Sealing wood is critical, both to increase the durability of the bait and to prevent bubbles in later finish steps. IMO, a strong waterproof sealer is desirable. I use Devcon Two Ton epoxy 99% of the time and I lightly sand it and wipe the bait with denatured alcohol before painting.