The best trolling spoons combine the perfect blend of action, flash, and size to trigger aggressive strikes from walleye, salmon, and trout. These versatile lures excel at imitating injured baitfish through their distinctive wobbling motion and reflective finishes. Whether you're targeting best trolling spoons for walleye in shallow water or pursuing king salmon in deep ocean channels, selecting the right spoon makes the difference between an empty cooler and your limit.
Professional anglers consistently rank spoons among their most productive trolling lures because they work effectively across multiple species and water conditions. From the compact flutter of walleye spoons to the aggressive action of magnum salmon lures, each design serves a specific purpose in your trolling arsenal.
This comprehensive guide reveals the top-performing trolling spoons for 2025, including detailed rigging instructions, size selection charts, and proven color patterns that consistently produce results across North American waters.
Understanding Trolling Spoon Basics
Trolling spoons deliver results through their unique combination of flash, vibration, and erratic action. Unlike casting spoons, trolling models feature thinner metal construction that produces optimal wobble at various speeds. This design creates the illusion of an injured baitfish struggling through the water.
The effectiveness of trolling spoons stems from their ability to attract fish from considerable distances. Premium metal plating in gold, silver, and copper generates maximum flash that penetrates even murky water. These reflective surfaces mimic the scales of natural forage species like alewives, emerald shiners, and herring.
Successful spoon selection requires matching your lure size to the prevalent forage in your target waters. Larger predators like chinook salmon prefer magnum spoons that replicate adult baitfish, while walleye respond better to smaller offerings that match their typical prey. Understanding these relationships dramatically improves your catch rates.
Best Trolling Spoons for Walleye
When targeting walleye, downsizing your spoon selection proves crucial for consistent success. These predators typically feed on smaller forage like emerald shiners, requiring spoons in the 1.5 to 2.5-inch range. The best trolling spoons for walleye feature slender profiles that accurately mimic these prey species.
Silver Streak Jr. spoons rank among the top choices for walleye anglers throughout the Great Lakes region. Their lightweight construction delivers excellent action at the slower speeds walleye prefer, particularly in water temperatures below 60 degrees. Gold and silver plating options provide the flash needed to attract fish in various light conditions.
Color selection for walleye spoons should focus on natural patterns that match local forage. Perch, silver shiner, and blue/silver combinations consistently produce results. During low-light periods, UV-enhanced and glow patterns increase visibility and trigger more strikes from suspended fish.
Proper trolling speed remains critical when fishing spoons for walleye. Most experienced anglers maintain speeds between 1.0 and 2.2 mph, adjusting based on water temperature and fish activity levels. Remember that walleye spoons lose their enticing action below 2 mph, making speed control essential.
Best Spoons for Trolling Salmon
Salmon trolling demands larger, more aggressive spoons that match the substantial forage these predators pursue. The best spoons for trolling salmon typically measure 3 to 4 inches and feature heavier construction for deeper trolling applications. These lures excel at imitating alewives, herring, and other pelagic baitfish.
Michigan Stinger spoons have earned legendary status among Great Lakes salmon anglers. Their unique cupped design creates an erratic darting action that triggers strikes from both chinook and coho salmon. Available in standard and magnum sizes, these spoons adapt to varying forage conditions throughout the season.
Dreamweaver spoons represent another top choice for salmon trolling enthusiasts. Their Super Glow and UV finishes provide exceptional visibility in deep water, while the thin blade construction maintains action at both slow and fast trolling speeds. These features make them particularly effective during low-light conditions.
The most popular spoons king salmon anglers rely on include patterns that combine flash with natural color schemes. Green, blue, and purple hues mixed with silver or gold bases consistently produce trophy fish. Glow patterns excel during early morning and late evening periods when salmon feed most actively.
Best Spoons for Trout Trolling
Trout present unique challenges that require specialized spoon selection. The best spoons for trout trolling balance size, action, and flash to match these opportunistic feeders' preferences. Lake trout, brown trout, and steelhead each respond to slightly different presentations.
For lake trout in deep water, larger spoons in the 3 to 4-inch range produce best. These fish often suspend over structure and respond to spoons trolled at moderate speeds. Bright orange, chartreuse, and white patterns with silver or gold backs trigger aggressive strikes from trophy lakers.
Brown trout and rainbow trout prefer smaller offerings that match their typical forage. Spoons measuring 2 to 3 inches in natural baitfish patterns work exceptionally well. The key lies in selecting colors that replicate local prey species while incorporating enough flash to attract attention.
Trout and steelhead salmon spoons share similar characteristics but require different rigging approaches. Steelhead respond particularly well to spoons with pink, orange, and blue color combinations. These anadromous fish maintain their ocean feeding preferences, making bright patterns especially effective.
Salmon Trolling Spoons Chart
Understanding spoon sizes helps anglers match their lures to specific fishing conditions. This salmon trolling spoons chart provides essential guidance for selection:
| Species | Spoon Size | Leader Length | Trolling Speed | Best Depths |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chinook/King | 3.5-4.0" | 36-42" | 2.2-3.0 mph | 20-120 ft |
| Coho/Silver | 2.5-3.5" | 24-36" | 2.5-3.5 mph | 15-60 ft |
| Pink Salmon | 2.0-2.5" | 22-30" | 2.0-2.8 mph | 10-40 ft |
| Steelhead | 2.5-3.0" | 30-36" | 2.5-3.2 mph | 15-50 ft |
| Lake Trout | 3.0-4.0" | 36-48" | 1.8-2.5 mph | 40-150 ft |
These recommendations serve as starting points. Adjust based on water clarity, forage size, and current fishing conditions. Experienced anglers often carry multiple sizes to adapt quickly to changing situations.
Rigging Spoons for Salmon Trolling
Proper rigging maximizes the effectiveness of your trolling spoons. Rigging spoons for salmon trolling requires attention to leader material, length, and hardware selection. These details significantly impact both action and hookup ratios.
Fluorocarbon leaders in 20 to 40-pound test provide the ideal combination of strength and stealth. Leader length varies based on water clarity and trolling method, typically ranging from 24 to 48 inches behind your flasher or dodger. Clear water conditions generally require longer leaders.
Hardware selection proves equally important for spoon performance. Quality ball bearing swivels prevent line twist while maintaining the spoon's natural action. Many anglers prefer barrel swivels attached between the hook and split ring, allowing the hook to rotate freely during fights.
Hook replacement often improves landing ratios significantly. Upgrading to premium siwash hooks ensures better penetration and holding power. Choose hook sizes where the gap equals or slightly exceeds the spoon's width for optimal hookup percentages.
Color Selection and Patterns
Successful trolling requires understanding how water depth and clarity affect color visibility. In shallow water under 50 feet, purple, chartreuse, pink, green, and blue colors maintain their vibrancy. These bright patterns excel in the upper water column where natural light penetrates effectively.
As you descend deeper, color perception changes dramatically. Red disappears first, followed by orange, yellow, green, and blue. This explains why UV and glow patterns dominate deep-water trolling success. These specialized finishes maintain visibility even at extreme depths where conventional colors appear gray.
Natural baitfish patterns work universally well across all depths. Silver, gold, and copper bases combined with blue, green, or purple accents mimic common forage species. During overcast conditions or in stained water, increase the amount of flash and glow to maintain visibility.
The time of day significantly influences color selection. Early morning and late evening periods favor glow patterns that charge from boat lights or natural luminescence. Midday bright sun calls for more natural patterns with reduced flash to avoid spooking wary fish.
Wholesale Blank Trolling Spoons
For serious anglers and tackle makers, wholesale blank trolling spoons offer customization opportunities and cost savings. These unpainted blanks come in various sizes, materials, and finishes, allowing complete control over the final product.
Quality blank spoons feature marine-grade brass or stainless steel construction with proper thickness for optimal action. Reputable suppliers like Worth Company and Lakeland Components offer bulk quantities with consistent quality. Choose blanks with smooth edges and uniform curvature for best results.
Popular blank finishes include nickel, gold, copper, and brass plating. Some manufacturers offer specialty finishes like hammered, hex pattern, or prism textures that create unique light reflection patterns. These textured surfaces often outperform smooth blanks in certain conditions.
When purchasing wholesale blanks, consider minimum order quantities and available customization options. Many suppliers offer custom stamping, specific gauges, and even proprietary shapes for unique lure designs. Factor in shipping costs and lead times when planning bulk purchases.
Advanced Rigging Techniques
Experienced anglers employ specialized rigging methods to maximize spoon effectiveness. Adding attractors like dodgers or flashers ahead of your spoon creates additional flash and vibration. Position these attractors 6 to 8 feet ahead of your spoon using appropriate leader material.
The addition of small inline flashers or spin-n-glos directly ahead of spoons enhances their appeal without creating excessive drag. These compact attractors work particularly well in clear water where subtle presentations excel. Match attractor colors to your spoon pattern for cohesive presentations.
Speed control becomes critical when trolling multiple spoons at various depths. Use trolling bags or drift socks to maintain consistent speeds in changing conditions. Modern electric motors with GPS speed control eliminate guesswork and improve presentation consistency.
Consider adding scent to your spoons for increased attraction. Commercial gel scents adhere well to metal surfaces and create scent trails that fish follow to your lure. Reapply scent every 30-45 minutes for maximum effectiveness.
Best Trolling Setups by Species
Different species require specialized trolling presentations for optimal success. Understanding these nuances helps you target specific fish more effectively. Here's a breakdown of proven setups for various game fish:
Chinook Salmon Setup:
Run magnum spoons 40-50 feet behind large flashers using 40-pound fluorocarbon leaders. Troll at 2.5-3.0 mph targeting temperature breaks between 46-54°F. Green glow and blue/silver patterns excel during summer months.
Walleye Setup:
Deploy smaller spoons on planer boards to cover maximum water. Use 10-pound fluorocarbon leaders and troll at 1.8-2.2 mph. Focus on types of perch patterns during summer when walleye key on these forage fish.
Lake Trout Setup:
Present spoons near bottom using downriggers or lead core line. Slow speeds of 1.5-2.0 mph with orange, white, or chartreuse patterns trigger strikes. Target depths of 60-120 feet during summer stratification.
Steelhead Setup:
Fast trolling at 2.8-3.5 mph with medium spoons creates reaction strikes. Pink, orange, and blue patterns behind smaller dodgers produce consistently. Focus on temperature breaks and current edges.
Seasonal Patterns and Timing
Spring trolling requires adjustments as fish transition from cold-water patterns. Start with slower speeds and smaller spoons that match emerging forage. As water temperatures climb above 45°F, gradually increase both speed and spoon size.
Summer patterns demand deeper presentations as thermoclines develop. Focus on temperature breaks where baitfish concentrate. This period offers excellent opportunities for best types of fishing as fish actively feed on abundant forage.
Fall fishing produces some of the year's best action as salmon stage for spawning runs. Increase spoon sizes to match mature baitfish and focus on areas with current. This season rewards anglers who adapt quickly to rapidly changing conditions.
Winter trolling, where legal, requires the slowest presentations of the year. Downsize spoons and focus on subtle actions that won't spook lethargic fish. Glow patterns excel during shortened daylight periods common in winter months.
Maintenance and Storage
Proper spoon care extends their productive lifespan significantly. Rinse spoons thoroughly with fresh water after each use, particularly after saltwater exposure. Dry completely before storage to prevent corrosion and maintain finish quality.
Inspect hooks regularly for sharpness and corrosion. Replace damaged or dull hooks immediately to maintain optimal hookup ratios. Quality replacement hooks represent a minimal investment that pays substantial dividends in landed fish.
Store spoons in compartmentalized tackle boxes that prevent tangling and finish damage. Avoid mixing different metals in the same compartment, as galvanic corrosion can occur. Consider using VCI (Vapor Corrosion Inhibitor) products for long-term storage.
Remove old or damaged split rings and swivels that could fail during battle. These components endure significant stress and should be replaced annually. Keep spare hardware on hand for quick field repairs.
Trolling Electronics and Tools
Modern trolling success relies heavily on quality electronics. Sonar units help locate baitfish schools and identify productive depths. Temperature probes reveal critical thermocline locations where predators and prey congregate. GPS mapping allows precise trolling patterns over structure.
Speed and temperature probes like those from Fish Hawk Electronics provide real-time data at your lure's depth. This information proves invaluable for maintaining optimal presentation speeds regardless of surface conditions.
Essential trolling tools include quality pliers for hook removal, line counters for precise depth control, and rod holders that accommodate your trolling spread. Invest in release clips that match your target species' fighting characteristics.
Consider adding trolling apps that track successful patterns, speeds, and locations. These digital tools help replicate productive presentations and build a database of seasonal patterns. Many apps integrate with modern fish finders for comprehensive data collection.
Expert Tips for Success
Professional guides emphasize the importance of experimentation. Run multiple spoon sizes and colors until patterns emerge. What worked yesterday might not produce today, so adaptability remains crucial for consistent success.
Pay attention to subtle details like boat speed variations and turning patterns. Many strikes occur during turns when spoons change speed and direction. S-curves and figure-eight patterns often trigger following fish to commit.
Monitor your spoons' action beside the boat before deploying them. Each spoon has an optimal speed range where action peaks. Familiarize yourself with these sweet spots for various spoon models in your collection.
When fish show interest but won't commit, try these proven adjustments: lengthen leaders for spooky fish, add scent for increased attraction, or change speeds dramatically to trigger reaction strikes. Sometimes the smallest adjustments produce the biggest results.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many anglers run spoons too fast, destroying their enticing wobble. Check action regularly and adjust speeds based on spoon design. Remember that thin trolling spoons require slower speeds than thick casting models.
Avoid using leaders that are too heavy for conditions. While 40-pound test works great for salmon, it can spook line-shy walleye. Match leader strength to your target species and water clarity for optimal results.
Don't neglect regular lure maintenance. Bent spoons lose their action and should be retired or repaired. A spoon that doesn't run true wastes valuable fishing time and reduces your odds of success.
Resist the temptation to run identical setups across your spread. Vary spoon sizes, colors, and depths until you identify productive patterns. Diversity in your presentation helps determine fish preferences quickly.
Where to Buy Quality Trolling Spoons?
Selecting reliable suppliers ensures you receive genuine products with proper finishes. Established retailers like FishUSA offer extensive selections from proven manufacturers. Their expertise helps anglers choose appropriate spoons for specific applications.
Local tackle shops provide valuable regional knowledge about productive patterns. Building relationships with knowledgeable staff pays dividends through insider information about current hot bites and effective presentations.
Online marketplaces offer competitive pricing but require careful vendor selection. Verify seller credentials and read reviews before purchasing. Counterfeit spoons with inferior finishes flood some markets, so buy from reputable sources.
Consider joining fishing clubs or forums where members share trusted supplier recommendations. These communities often organize group purchases for better pricing on quality tackle. Their collective experience helps identify the most productive spoon models.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size spoon is best for salmon trolling?
The ideal salmon spoon size ranges from 3.0 to 4.0 inches, with 3.5 inches being the most versatile. King salmon prefer larger 4-inch magnum spoons, while coho respond better to 3-inch models. Match your spoon size to local baitfish for best results.
How fast should I troll with spoons?
Optimal trolling speeds vary by species: walleye perform best at 1.0-2.2 mph, salmon at 2.2-3.0 mph, and steelhead at 2.5-3.5 mph. Water temperature significantly affects ideal speeds, with colder water requiring slower presentations.
What colors work best for deep water trolling?
UV and glow patterns excel in deep water where natural colors lose visibility. White, chartreuse, and blue glow spoons maintain their effectiveness below 50 feet. Silver and gold bases with glow accents provide the flash needed to attract fish from distance.
Should I use a flasher with my trolling spoon?
Flashers significantly increase spoon effectiveness, especially in stained water or when targeting salmon. Position flashers 6-8 feet ahead of your spoon using appropriate leader lengths. Some situations call for spoons alone, particularly in ultra-clear water with spooky fish.
How do I prevent line twist when trolling spoons?
Quality ball bearing swivels placed above your leader eliminate most line twist issues. Check that spoons run true beside the boat before deploying. Bent or damaged spoons create excessive twist and should be replaced immediately.
What's the best way to store trolling spoons?
Store spoons in compartmentalized boxes after thorough cleaning and drying. Separate different metal types to prevent galvanic corrosion. Use VCI tabs in storage containers for long-term protection against moisture damage.
Conclusion
Selecting the best trolling spoons requires understanding your target species, local forage, and water conditions. From compact walleye spoons to magnum salmon lures, each design serves specific purposes in successful trolling presentations. Master these fundamentals and watch your catch rates soar.
Remember that trolling spoon success comes from experimentation and adaptation. Start with proven patterns and sizes, then refine your approach based on daily conditions. Keep detailed records of productive combinations to build your personal database of winning presentations.
Whether you're pursuing walleye in shallow bays or targeting king salmon in deep channels, quality trolling spoons remain among the most effective lures in any angler's arsenal. Invest in premium spoons with genuine metal plating, maintain them properly, and trust in their proven fish-catching ability across all seasons.
