Type in these three words into the search function, SWIMBAIT WEIGHT POSITION. The result brought up three of the main swimbait construction threads (linked below).
swimbait , very first attempt
Need help making a jointed swimbait
A Swimbait in the Making
There is far more information available, just adjust your search word list, eg SWIMBAIT HINGE. This search brings up a list of 37 posts.
These should give you much of the information you require, but at the end of the day, as Jamie says, it all comes down to trial and error. There is no swimbait recipe, you have to test.
Report back on your progress, not just the successes, more importantly, the things that do not work. It is the failures that teach people.
I intend tackling a swimbait design myself very soon. My plan of attack is to make a rough prototype. This will not be used for fishing, just testing. I will cut out the profile and chamfer the edges, rather than spending an hour shaping. The hinge will be made from simple twisted SS wire. I will fit several tow eyes to test the effect of different positions.
I will cut several ballast holes and fix the ballast with a rubber glue, so I can easily remove it and try a different location. All of this can be done at the waters edge.
It is important to attach the hooks and eyes that you intend to use, as these do affect how the bait performs. Otherwise, you will spend a lot of time getting the lure perfect, only to attach the hooks and end up with a stick.
I will also represent the top coat with a coating of 5 min epoxy, this is important too.
From opening the tool box to dipping in the water, generally does not take much more than 45 minutes, including the epoxy coat.
Once I have a good swim action, then I will think more about the hinges and make a pretty one.
Good luck with your project.
