Does anyone else use custom painted crank baits?  I know someone who puts together some of the best patterns I've ever seen, I haven't used a stock crankbait in over a decade and don't even carry them.  I'm curious for those who also use them, but also use some stock ones as well- do you see a difference?

 

Also- who are you getting your customs from?

If I thought colors mattered to fish more than they do people I would... I dont even care if my lures have eyes or any fine detail.  Sure, it looks nice but most if the fish I see are ugly...lol

Just now, JediAmoeba said:

If I thought colors mattered to fish more than they do people I would... I dont even care if my lures have eyes or any fine detail.  Sure, it looks nice but most if the fish I see are ugly...lol

Ha- I agree.  I think it's mostly a confidence thing for me- if THESE aren't working, then no crankbaits will...…  I also don't lose many lures, so I don't mind the investments. 

I have several custom painted baits.  My favorites are some Rebel Craws painted by ITO for Megabass.  Fish don't care who painted them though.  I like them, and they weren't crazy expensive.

1 minute ago, J Francho said:

I have several custom painted baits.  My favorites are some Rebel Craws painted by ITO for Megabass.  Fish don't care who painted them though.  I like them, and they weren't crazy expensive.

Just curious, what is "crazy expensive" for a crank?  I pay about $18/bait but that includes upgraded hooks as well- I'm also only carrying 10-12 at a time and replacing as necessary.

I think that's about what I paid for the MB baits.  Most I've paid is around $35 for a crank.  I have some custom swimbaits that were MUCH more, anywhere from $75 to $200.

Like everything anymore custom painted lure are expensive. Back in the 90'scI would send a dozen crankbaits to Delta Tackle for custom painting for $3 each.

I sent a Triple Trout to PIZZ 5 years ago for custom painting for $25. I have no idea what today's cost is? Off the shelf lures today are excellent coloration.

Tom

I've got some custom painted KO blanks, mostly wiggle warts. Also have some handmade and custom painted balsa cranks, they run about $40 apiece.