Was trying to do a nice 8" long Captain Bill style swimmer to try out when it blew up on the lathe... ended up doing a soft curve on the top. (Thanks Flaptail for posting those pictures...) Think I like this one even more...

where the curve ends up top drill for your 1st belly hook hole

Cool! Recycle! And do what Bassmaster said.:D

Sounds like that location is important, vs 1/2" infront or behind. Is the thick part of the plug a natural pivot point in the wter as the plug swims?

It's all balance and spacing. Evenly balanced and evenly spaced.