What brand swims are effective? I need a 4, 5 and 6 inch shad imitation. My Basspro has nothing close to what I want here in MO :-[! Any ideas appreciated.

I've been wondering the same thing. I want a cheap and highly effective swimbait that's good for beginners.

maybe we can both get answers from this thread =)

The original optimums have always been awesome shad imitations! They don't look like much but believe me, the fish like 'em!

Yum Sweetcheeks?  Storm Kickin' Minnow?

Inexpensive shad imitators = Storm Kickin' Minnow or Panther Martin Vivif.  Tackletour reviewed the Vivif.  See below:

http://www.tackletour.com/reviewpmvivif.html

The original Optimum comes in 3" up to 8":

For 4.50 up to 5.50 ea in the sizes you want are hard to beat.

Also the 4" Osprey Talon:

16 bones for 3 baits is not a bad deal.