I like the inline blade version Rich. I tinker with my lures too when the Wx is bad. I never thought about an inline like that; maybe something like the ole 'Snagless Sally' would be productive. I generally modify spinnerbaits. I'm currently trying to create a willow leaf adaptation with small ears off each side...imagine a willow blade with a tooth like poison ivy leaves on both sides.
I am trying to teach my boys the advantages of tweaking crainkbaits by matching local bass forage. My latest expirirementations are lip trimming to create a desired wobble and depth. Colors are an enigma to me most of the time, much to my chagrin lol. I think I'll start a log book and use a cast net to identify bait in each body of water I visit.