Again congratulations on your daughter.
Ive used basswood alot and all I can say is give it a chance, it is awesome once you understand it so be patient. After the initial soak in sealer once dry do another quick dip.
What I have found is a single coat of etex is plenty any more and you run the chance of altering the plugs action. When i put the epoxy on I let it spin a bit then remove as much as I can for a thin coat. This preserves the original intended action of the lure.
Looking at the hook placement don't be afraid to move the belly hook back a bit if you find it tangles.
Lastly I really like the body shape of those plugs I think you nailed it I would love to see one in action.
Plugs Rule
Threaded Mode