So I can carve/sand wood into crankbaits, but I can't figure out how to run the wire through the center to attach the hooks. I could just skip the hooks, but then how would I catch anything?

The best I could figure is you carve two 'halves' and stick the wire in the middle and use a bunch of epoxy to hold it together?

Any help or pictures would be appreciated.

You are on the right track. Check out www.tackleunderground.com and ask there for some advice. The folks there can help you out.

Here is a pic of a rapala lure just to give you an idea. It's not that hard.

You can also opt to use screw eyes that you can get from Stamina. I use them for the top water plugs I make.

Thanks islandbass!

No problem! If only I had the skills to make a crankbait. ;D

joe, if you are only fishing for bass and not some big toothy critters, a thru wire harness is not needed.   Get some 18 gage stainless steel wire and twist your own line ties and hook hangers.   I've never had one fail in 5yrs, and it takes less time to put your bait together.   Let me know if you need more details.

Thanks BIG M, that's good to know. When you say twist your own hangers and line ties do you mean thread some wire and screw it into the bait? Or did I not understand you.

I have some screw in eyes I cannabalized off some Mirrolures, but they are pretty heavy and bulky.

Thanks a bunch...

Don't use those type of screw eyes in balsa wood, they won't hold.  Cut the wire in about 2.5 inch long pieces.  Bend around a nail in a U shape and twist the ends with pliers.  All the twists in the wire will grab the epoxy, impossible to pull out without tearing a bait apart.