I'll definitely keep experimenting that is pretty much all I do. It could be nine inches or 2 and half feet I try to match colors with the water color its a less subtle approach I do agree with having at least some contrast.. Seems like the more I try the less it matters crappie seem to bite anything I think helps when there is a minnow attached. I like to feel a strong internal connection with the lure I'm fishing, It's hard to explain... Thanks for the tip.