Spinnerbaits are effective lures for catching a variety of freshwater fish species. They are versatile enough to use in a wide array of conditions and come in a variety of sizes and colors. Spinnerbaits are essential lures for any fishermen serious about catching fish. Fishing them correctly is what separates average fishermen from the most successful anglers. Adapting to the changing seasons and varying the speed and depth of your retrieve, spinnerbaits will produce fish throughout the fishing season.
Selecting the Right Spinnerbait
Step 1
Choose a spinnerbait that correlates with the size of the fish you are trying to catch. Panfish such as bluegills, crappie and sunfish prefer small sizes, while larger models appeal to game fish like bass, pike and muskies.
Step 2
Select a color based on the conditions you encounter. Sunny days call for lighter-colored spinnerbaits. White, yellow and chartreuse are all good choices for a bright day. Black, brown and purple are better colors to use in low light conditions or on overcast days.
Step 3
Choose a blade type. Blades come in three basic shapes: Colorado, Indiana and willow leaf. Select a blade that suits the water conditions and the retrieve you intend to use. Colorado blades are ideal when fishing muddy water, while Indiana blades excel in clear water conditions. Use willow leaf blades in areas with heavy vegetation.
Step 4
Select a blade size. Larger blades create more flash and vibration and are ideal when the water is stained. Smaller blades are more effective in clear water, where a subtle presentation is preferred. Also consider the size of the bait you are imitating when selecting a blade size.
Rigging and Retrieving
Step 1
Attach the spinnerbait to the end of the fishing line using an improved clinch knot. Six- to 14-lb. test line is sufficient in most freshwater fishing situations.
Step 2
Cast the spinnerbait out into the water. Vary the depth of the retrieve by allowing the spinnerbait to sink after it hits the water. Begin retrieving immediately if you want the lure to run just below the surface. Most spinnerbaits will sink at a rate of about 1 foot per second. Use a countdown method to determine how deep the bait is running.
Step 3
Vary the pace of the retrieve until you find a speed that works. Warm water conditions tend to call for a fast retrieve, while lethargic fish in cold water prefer a slow retrieve. A slow retrieve with fast twitches may trigger a strike by imitating a wounded or fleeing bait fish.
Tips and Warnings
- Spinnerbaits are easy to customize, so experiment with different combinations until you find the perfect one. Painted blades are widely available and add a different element to standard patterns. Replacement skirts are also available to customize your spinnerbaits and to replace worn-out skirts on your favorite model.
- Always be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye out for people walking behind you. Check each time you make a cast to avoid catching an unsuspecting passerby.
Things You'll Need
- Medium-action fishing rod
- Spinning or baitcasting reel
- 6- to 14-lb. test fishing line
- Spinnerbaits
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