Abstract: A molding system includes a top mold, a first post mounted to the top mold, a bottom mold, a second post mounted to the bottom mold, and a holding pin mounted to one of the first post or the second post. The first post is configured to contact an outer surface of a reinforcement shell when the molding system is in a closed configuration. The second post is configured to contact the outer surface of the reinforcement shell when the molding system is in the closed configuration. The holding pin is configured to secure the reinforcement shell in place when the molding system is in the closed configuration.

Abstract: A soft bait fishing lure includes a soft bait lure body made of an elastomer and a cylindrical fiber reinforcement shell molded within the soft bait lure body such that the elastomer encompasses an outer surface of the cylindrical fiber reinforcement shell. The cylindrical fiber reinforcement shell is multi-directionally flexible, and includes one or more fiber strands, a plurality of apertures formed by the one or more fiber strands, and a tubular cavity formed by the one or more fiber strands. One or more apertures of the plurality of apertures is configured to secure a hook. At least a portion of the tubular cavity is filled with the elastomer.