2nickfishing

Hello everyone, I hope this message finds you all well. As of six months ago, I've fallen down the rabbit hole of big bait fishing. I've done pretty well so far with a few really good fish. As I looked at all the baits this diverse market has to offer, I started to think about making my own. A bait that piqued my interest was a two-piece rat wake bait. My initial thought was to first design a prototype in a 3D modeling environment, and then create a mold from it. Then from that mold, I could create some resin baits. But before I do any of that, I still have a lot of questions. I would be greatly appreciative to have any kinds of tips or tricks for the development process of a bait. Especially those with experience making rat wakes. Some preliminary questions I have (but not limited to): - Do you think 3D modeling would work as an alternative to wood? - Do you have any preferred products? silicone, resin, paint, etc - Do you incorporate the hook and line eyelets into the resin molding process? Or do you make holes after and insert them in? - What should I know about painting on resin? Can you even paint on resin?