Non-Fly trout?

Northern

Northern

Seeking SMB
Forum Supporter
So, my sister is coming out in September to kayak fish some basin lakes with me - but she doesn't fly fish.
We grew up fishing, but there were no trout around, just warmwater fish. (So we're fine on the bass front!)

So, my question to you native PNWers: what would be the best spin lures for trout in those lakes, both casting and trolling?
Just standard Mepps spinner types?
Jigs and curly tails?
(Not looking for powerbait type options)

Thanks for any advice!
 
Sort by date Sort by votes
Charles Helin, inventor of Flatfish, said that it was impossible to retrieve a Flatfish too slowly. In my youth I had great success with the F4 in light grey with black spots, and the F7 in brownish orange color. I also liked red and white #1 and 2 Mepps spinners,small all-black Panther Martins, and gold Thommen Dollies.
 
Upvote 0 Downvote
I fished with spin tackle for many years in the Sierras. I sometimes used spinners ( Blue Fox) or "spoons" but, BY FAR, the most effective lure was a small #9, gold Rapala "countdown" (sinking) plug. Even in the smallest of streams this lure outperformed every other option 90% of the time. It seems counter intuitive, but this lure was essentially the "golden ticket". They cost about $10 a piece, but I would always have at least three of them. Drag that lure through a "hole" and often times the biggest fish will bite it.
 
Upvote 0 Downvote
Jim in Anacortes said:
I fished with spin tackle for many years in the Sierras. I sometimes used spinners ( Blue Fox) or "spoons" but, BY FAR, the most effective lure was a small #9, gold Rapala "countdown" (sinking) plug. Even in the smallest of streams this lure outperformed every other option 90% of the time. It seems counter intuitive, but this lure was essentially the "golden ticket". They cost about $10 a piece, but I would always have at least three of them. Drag that lure through a "hole" and often times the biggest fish will bite it.
Click to expand...
This piqued my curiosity so I went and found that they still make them, and they are still $10!


What length would #9 correspond to, maybe 1" or 1.5"?
 
Upvote 0 Downvote
Merle... I apologize for relying on my memory about the # 9 thing. 1.5 inches long... only the "gold" color and definitely the "countdown". Over and over this one, very particular plug was the key to success. Rapalas come in many colors and sizes, but for trout in the Sierras this was the ticket. Especially for Brown Trout. I often have fished Pass Lake wondering what I would catch with this plug..if it were legal.
 
Upvote 0 Downvote
These have been my go to crankbait for trout the last couple of years. I just run them with a single barbless siwash or their own single hook replacements off the back. Leave the empty front split ring in place for a little rattle. (Not sure if that really does anything but in my mind, it must :ROFLMAO:) They work great in lakes but rivers are where they really shine.

dynamiclures.com

HD Trout 2.25"

The #1 Trout CrankbaitThis compact crankbait provides a great blend of casting distance, swimming action, maneuverability, and realistic appearance. It performs effectively in strong currents found in rivers, streams, and creeks, as well as in calm waters like lakes, reservoirs, and ponds.
dynamiclures.com dynamiclures.com
 
Upvote 0 Downvote
#5 black over silver countdown is deadly on Smallmouth in the spring. Cast, let it sink a bit, rip it back. Savage strikes, sometimes right at the rod tip.
 
  • Like
Reactions: Zak
Upvote 0 Downvote
Jim F. said:
#5 black over silver countdown is deadly on Smallmouth in the spring. Cast, let it sink a bit, rip it back. Savage strikes, sometimes right at the rod tip.
Click to expand...
I think I saw exactly that in one of my old tackle boxes the other day, while rummaging for something else.
I'll add it to the box I'm putting together for her. Definitely smallies in some of the lakes I plan to take her to!
 
Upvote 0 Downvote
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top