Took a buddy with me today and we finally found the hybrids. He was throwing the Mepps Agila #4, I was throwing the homemade “clone”. Final count was 3-3. I was curious to see how much better the Mepps works. I am able to work a little quicker, especially in the 15mph wind because I have a heavier weighted bait. Mepps spins immediately when you start reeling. Clone requires a little more pull to start spinning.

Either way, we out fished the live bait guys that were drifting right past us within 20 feet. Eventually, he asked us what we were using. It’s always nice to beat the live bait guys, that’s pretty rare.

Hell to the yeah, that is a great day. It's not the arrow, it's the Indian. Good Job, and thanks for sharing. \

Prosise

What lake are you fishing there?

Congrats! Can we see a picture of your clone. I have friends who also make them.

I'm still trying to decide what I like best in the picture. The fat hybrid or the beard flapping in the wind.

Thanks Prosise, and thanks for all your videos and post. They are very informative and the content that people come here to find.

I live in Iowa Park, which is just west of Wichita Falls. The closest lake to me that has White Bass and Hybrid is across the border. I live 12 miles from the border and drive to Waurika Lake. I realize this takes the T out of TFF but I can’t find any info on the lake and I’ve fished a lot of Texas lakes over the years. Used to fish RC and Cedar Creek when I lived in Corsicana.

Sure....I fished some with the Mepps #4 and the “clone” and could definitely tell the Mepps spins as soon as you start to crank. I didn’t however notice a difference in effectiveness, but will continue to test them out.

I used #4 blades on my clone. But when I put them next to the Mepps #4, the blade is a touch smaller. I will probably order the next size bigger. Maybe this will help it sounds faster and create more vibration. We shall see.

It was quite windy. That’s for sure. Probably 14-15 mph. Beard took a beating

Where are you getting the orange hook shank covers? I am using a clone as well. My brass bodies is different than yours. Catch fish pretty good though. I'm still perfecting mine nd haven't been able to find the hook shank tubing.

Thanks,

cliff shot in Athens TX

I am building clones too. Mine are a little different than yours. Brass bodies are different shape but heavier than Mepps. I haven't been able to find the hook shank tubing like you are using. Where are you getting them?
I'm using https://www.hagensfish.com. Bulk or Balow's Tackle in smaller amounts.

Thanks,

cliffshot

Athens, TX

I use the Mepps from the factory but prefer barbless hooks. I cut the treble hooks off and use a split ring to mount my barbless hooks. I went to an automotive store and bought shrink wrap tubing in about any color you want. I put it over the hook shank before I put it on the split ring. You might check with automotive supply houses for tubing.

Link to online catalog of tubing: https://www.lurepartsonline.com/Plastic-Hook-Tubing_2

⬆️⬆️⬆️ I get all my parts from lurepartsonline as Dennis mentioned above. ⬆️⬆️⬆️

You might look into Miller's Creek. Might be a little closer for you to catch Hybrids.