Make a THUG run like a Shad Rap

[jaketomberlin]

I've been hard at work modifying some DT THUGS... The one in the picture has the lip angle similar to a shad rap right now.... it no longer has the wide back and forth thumping, this one keeps a tighter wiggle like a Shad Rap. HOWEVER......... it dives a little harder than a Shad Rap and displaces more water.

I'm always looking for that perfect "All-Around" crankbait... one that has all the right characteristics and qualities. The SR-7 is perfect in it's own way, but can be tough to cast into the wind. All the DT's are great, but I hate all the lead weights inside them that causes them to rise VERY slowly, and I don't think the body shape represents common forage very well.

Then came the DT Thug.... perfect body shape/weight/density/etc. But that damn lip was pointing the wrong way! Well I have finally found out how to fix that problem without damaging the bait.

[jaketomberlin]

[fishing_in_israel]

I've got a DT Thug it it is one of the worst casters that I own.
Do your modifications make for a longer casting lure?
And what mods did you make? Can you show us a step-by-step tutorial?

Nigel

[jaketomberlin]

Yeah the Thugs don't cast as good as the DT-10 DT-16 etc. But my modified thugs actually do cast a little bit better than the regular thugs. I think there is less wind-resistance because the lip is not facing down anymore, and the bait rifles through the air better.

The only modification I make is changing the angle of the diving lip. If you look at a picture of a Normal DT Thug, and then look at this picture, you will notice that the lip is facing more upward. I just use a propane torch, and heat the diving lip very slowly until it turns completely white. After the lip turns white, you have about 15 seconds to bend it the way you want it. After the diving lip cools off, it will become clear again. You HAVE to be careful though..... if you get the lip too hot it will just melt away.