Lead Casting Mold F47 – Shad Jig Heads 140-180g

Product detailed description

The Your Mold F47 lead casting mold offers saltwater shad jig heads weighing 140, 160 and 180 g. It sits between the lighter F16 and heavier F65, allowing you to move above 120 g while retaining VMC 5150 in 10/0. Three cavities with 20 g spacing are useful when successive drifts bring changes in current direction or boat speed. The aim is to find a weight that lets you keep the soft bait on the intended path and in the intended layer, rather than simply reaching the bottom as quickly as possible.

The pointed fish profile forms the front of a rig for paddle-tail shads and other soft bodies with a suitable cross-section. Weight ahead of the body affects its angle during lifts and on the fall, while the paddle tail adds its own movement and drag. The bulkier or more active the tail, the more its behaviour can differ from that of a slim soft jerkbait on the same head. Compare the complete lure when selecting components. A straight transition from body to head and the correct point exit matter more for a clean presentation than two lures sharing a colour or length.

Choose 140 g if it already gives clear contact. The 160 g head provides an intermediate step and 180 g the highest weight in this mold. As drift increases, watch the line angle. If the lure is simply being dragged a long way behind the boat, extra weight may not be the only answer. Adjust fishing direction, the amount of line out and the soft bait as well. For fish in midwater, allow time at their level; near the bottom, respond to changes in the seabed. Do not assign one universal depth figure to a particular weight.

SAF specifies VMC 5150 10/0 for these weights. Choose the hook to suit the body cross-section and point exit, and choose the head weight for the load required. If the lure fills the gape, a heavier casting from F47 will not solve the problem. With long soft baits, check that the shank does not extend into the moving tail section. Bulky bodies need room for the point to work. Before casting, check the hook eye’s geometry and the hook’s fit in the groove. The same size from another series is not automatically interchangeable.

Finish the head with 8 mm eyes and a suitable powder paint or rubber coating for lead. Keep the eye and point clear and avoid filling the eye recesses with paint. Choose bait retention according to the actual casting and soft-bait material, rather than an unverified keeper from another mold. Above 180 g, F65 continues with 200 and 250 g and the same specified hook size. For a calmer drift or slower fall, return to F16. Adjust weight according to the lure’s behaviour rather than trying to use the largest head every time.

Casting weights and hook options

Each of the three cavities has its own weight. 140, 160 and 180 g are not a range produced by varying how much metal you pour into one cavity. Dry-fit the hook and check that the mold closes fully. Hook and eye specifications follow SAF’s data. Weigh the first finished casting and test it with the intended soft bait before making a batch.

Filling all three cavities represents a nominal 480 g of lead plus sprues. Allow sufficient ladle capacity for the full set and for an individual 180 g head; you can fill the cavities separately. Hooks, eyes, coatings and soft baits are selected separately. When fishing, include the body and other rig components in the total lure weight. After saltwater use, rinse the rig with fresh water, dry it and check its condition.

Frequently asked questions about F47

How does F47 follow on from F16?

F16 offers 80, 100 and 120 g, while F47 continues with 140, 160 and 180 g. Both are specified for VMC 5150 10/0 and 8 mm eyes. Check the soft bait’s fit to the differently sized head when changing.

Why does the mold have three closely spaced weights?

The 20 g steps let you respond to drift or lure drag without a large change in weight. Select the load that gives the intended presentation and watch its effect on fall speed as well.

Can I use a larger soft bait just because the head weighs 180 g?

Head weight does not increase hook clearance. F47 is specified for 10/0. Body cross-section, shank length and clearance above the lure determine fit. An excessively bulky body needs different rigging.

When should I move up to F65?

When even 180 g does not provide the required contact and lure path. F65 offers 200 and 250 g. Before moving up, assess total lure weight and the load on the rod and other tackle.

Is a ladle labelled 180 g sufficient for a 180 g head?

Allow for metal in the pouring sprue and a margin while filling. The nominal finished head weight should not be your only guide to ladle capacity. Choose a suitable larger capacity.

→ All detailed technical information can be found below in the Product parameters table.

↓ Below the product description you will also find related and similar products to help you choose and put together a complete setup.