pick a minnow style to mimic. I wouldrecommend stainless wire for sure. if your using softwoods. balsa cedars I recommend sealer.
on smaller lures many seal with sand sealer,or envirotex then prime.recommend white primer. water base paints when dry are very efficient for hobby building. final coat in your region I recommend envirotex lite.
cutting lip slots,do when woods square stock..
lexan lip at your desired thickness. where it inserts in lip slot scuff the lexan. more bite for epoxying lip in.
hope this helps you out.
theres many very iniative,talented builders on this site.