How to Fish Casting Spoons
Technique Guide
How to Fish Casting Spoons
Casting spoons are one of the most versatile and effective lures in Canadian fishing. They work for trout, bass, walleye, pike, and striped bass — in lakes, rivers, and tidal water. This guide covers everything you need to fish them effectively. Part of our Canada Fishing Hub.
Why Casting Spoons Work
A casting spoon mimics an injured or fleeing baitfish. The curved metal body wobbles on the retrieve and flutters on the fall — two actions that trigger strikes from predatory fish. They work in lakes, rivers, and tidal water, and they're effective at every skill level.
The hammered finish reflects light from multiple angles, imitating a fleeing baitfish in any light condition.
The wobble creates pressure waves fish can detect through their lateral line — effective even in murky water.
Most strikes happen on the pause. The spoon flutters down like a dying baitfish — irresistible to fish holding below.
Watch it in action
Retrieve Techniques
Steady Retrieve
Cast out, let the spoon sink to your target depth, then reel at a consistent speed. The spoon's wobble does the work. Best starting point — vary speed until fish respond.
Stop-and-Go
Reel a few turns, pause, then resume. The pause lets the spoon flutter down — most strikes happen here. Effective for trout, bass, and walleye in lakes and slow rivers.
Lift-and-Drop
Lift the rod tip sharply, then drop it and let the spoon flutter back down on semi-slack line. Best for lake trout and walleye in deeper water. Keep light tension on the drop — strikes feel like a tick or sudden slack.
Current Swing
In rivers and tidal areas, cast across the current and let the spoon swing through current seams. Control retrieve speed to keep the spoon at the right depth. Deadly for striped bass in tidal rivers.
Colour Selection
Clear water, bright conditions. The default starting point for most Canadian fishing situations.
Overcast conditions, low light, slightly stained water. Warm glow triggers strikes when silver doesn't.
Tannin-stained streams and rivers. Blends with the natural water colour while still producing flash.
Murky or turbid water, tidal rivers. High visibility attractor colours — effective for striped bass in stained water.
Imitates small baitfish in saltwater and clear freshwater. Good for stripers and mackerel.
Gear Setup
Always attach your spoon with a snap or split ring — tying directly to the line restricts the spoon's action. A barrel swivel between mainline and leader prevents line twist in current.
Depth Control
Fish More Water. Trigger More Strikes.
Shop StickyLures Casting Spoons
Built for Canadian species and conditions — trout, bass, walleye, pike, and striped bass. Long casts, strong flash, and reaction-strike action.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a casting spoon and how does it work?
A casting spoon is a curved metal lure that wobbles and flashes as it moves through the water, mimicking a wounded baitfish. The action is produced by the spoon's shape — no special technique required. A simple steady retrieve produces action.
What size casting spoon should I use?
1/8–1/4 oz for brook trout in small streams. 1/4–1/2 oz for most lake and river situations. 1/2–1 oz for lake trout, striped bass, and situations requiring distance or depth. When in doubt, start lighter.
What colour casting spoon is best?
Silver in clear water and bright conditions. Gold in low light or overcast. Copper in tannin-stained streams. Chartreuse or orange in murky water or tidal rivers. Start with silver and adjust based on what fish are responding to.
How do I attach a casting spoon to my line?
Always use a snap or split ring — never tie your line directly to the spoon. A direct knot restricts the spoon's action and reduces its effectiveness. A small barrel snap allows the spoon to swing freely and makes lure changes quick.
Can I use casting spoons in saltwater?
Yes — casting spoons are highly effective in saltwater for striped bass, mackerel, and pollock. Use stainless steel or saltwater-rated hardware to prevent corrosion. Rinse with fresh water after each saltwater session.