Let’s get this out of the way to start with. We are not talking about fish embossed dining utensils when referring to a fishing spoon. Anglers utilize spoons to catch a wide variety of fish in fresh and saltwater across Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina. Spoons can be cast from land or boat or trolled while a watercraft is in motion. Here is what you need to know about a fishing spoon. 

What Is A Spoon In Fishing

A fishing spoon is simple when it comes to design. The top of the lure connects to the fishing line on one end, while the bottom end contains a treble hook. Spoons are constructed of either wood, brass, lead, or steel.

The purpose of a fishing spoon is to mimic a baitfish on the move or one that is injured. The lures are long and thin, with one concave side similar to the dining utensil when it comes to the shape. The lures are left in their natural state or painted with various colors to attract strikes from fish.

The concave design allows the lure to wobble instead of spinning as it is moved through the water. As the tackle wobbles, it creates a reflection catching the fish’s attention as it passes. 

In freshwater, casting and trolling spoons are effective for trout, bass, and small varieties for bluegill. 

When utilizing spoons in saltwater, anglers catch mackerel, bluefish, redfish, and more. 

Do You Use Bait With Spoons

Bait is not to be used on the hooks trailing spoons. Unfortunately, bait causes the lure to move unnaturally through the water due to resistance. 

Instead of using bait, consider spraying the fishing lure with a fish attractant scent. The scent will entice fish to bite more readily. Spray scents are available for purchase online. 

When using fishing spoons for bass, we recommend Baitmate Fish Attractant Scent. 

Do Spoons Work In Saltwater

Yes, spoons are equally as effective in saltwater as in freshwater. When fishing the coastal waters of Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina,  the lures are comparable in size when targeting freshwater fish. However, offshore fish species require larger presentations, including king mackerel, wahoo, and more. 

The spoon is trolled or retrieved rapidly or slowly, depending on the species. Fish strike spoons viciously; therefore, be prepared at all times to avoid losing the rod and reel combination in the water. 

How Do You Fish With A Jigging Spoon

A jigging spoon is similar to trolling or casting spoons because they flutter to entice a strike. Jigging spoons are fished vertically in the water column as opposed to horizontally.

A trolling spoon and jigging spoon are not the same. Make sure you purchase the appropriate variety based on the type of fishing you engage in. 

Vertical spoons are dropped from the surface to underwater structures such as rock piles, recks, or reefs below. The jig is reeled up towards the surface before being allowed to flutter back down—fish strike in both the retrieval and free lining of jigging spoons. 

How Effective Are Spoon Lures

Spoons are highly effective because they can be presented in a multitude of depths. When reeled or trolled, the shiny flutter imitates baitfish that call the body of water home. 

Consider maximizing trolling depths by securing a spoon to a depth finder. The fishing spoon is lowered into the water and trolled horizontally to a lake or ocean bed. The lure breaks free from the downrigger when a fish strikes, allowing the angler to fight the fish by rod and reel. 

Lastly, spoons catch many fish species; therefore, they are necessary for fresh and saltwater tackle boxes. 

What Type Of Rod Is Used For Spoons

The rod type is highly dependent on the species you are targeting. When trolling, utilize medium-heavy rods to withstand the strike while the boat is in motion.

Anglers shore fishing for bass and crappie do not require stout rods. Light to medium weight rods will suffice. However, there is a middle ground for mackerel, redfish, trout, and more. When catching these types of fish while casting, utilize a medium-weight rod. Lighter rods will not allow the angler to apply force and turn the fish as necessary. 

Are You Ready To Use A Fishing Spoon

Casting or trolling spoons does not require expert knowledge. The lures are straightforward to attach to the line, and no specific technique is needed. Most importantly, keep a few size spoons in the tackle bag so you are prepared in any situation. Lastly, remember a fishing spoon is effective for both salt and freshwater fish.