Spoon fishing lures are long, flat, and often oval-shaped pieces of metal or plastic that mimic the appearance of baitfish. They shine, flash, and make noise to further attract nearby fish. They come in plenty of sizes and colors, and are sometimes even painted to look like real bait. Their flashy material is a big help as it reflects sunlight, creating quite the scene underwater. It’s no surprise, then, that these lures attract tons of species! Fishing spoons are an essential part of any angler’s tackle box, especially when targeting trout. Unlike your dining utensils, fishing spoons are specialized lures designed to mimic the movement of swimming or injured baitfish. Their unique shape and action trigger the predatory instincts of trout, leading to aggressive strikes.
Why Choose Fishing Spoons in 2025?
Spoons are very simple, yet effective fishing lures. They have been around for a very long time. A spoon is basically a curved piece of metal with a hook in it. The bait can be of a metallic finish such as silver, gold, or bronze. Spoons are available painted as well. Some are even a combination of the two. Spoons usually have a single treble hook, though some spoons, especially weedless versions, have a single hook. Spoon fishing lures also have the advantage of simplicity and durability. Unlike live bait that requires careful handling and maintenance, spoons are ready to go straight out of the tackle box. They are designed to target a wide variety of species, making them a versatile choice for anglers. Their ability to reflect light and create vibrations in the water makes them highly effective even in less-than-ideal fishing conditions.
Top 9 Best Fishing Spoons for 2025
1. Acme Kastmaster
The Acme Kastmaster is one of the most iconic trout spoons on the market, and for good reason. Its simple yet effective design imitates a minnow’s profile, creating a tight wobble that drives trout wild. This lure’s aerodynamic shape allows for long casts, even with smaller sizes, making it ideal for reaching deep-holding trout without additional weight. Design: Flat-angled front profile for a realistic swimming action. Sizes: Available in a wide range of sizes, from 1/32 oz. for small trout to 3/4 oz. for larger species like salmon and steelhead. Colors: Popular color options include Chrome/Chartreuse, Chrome/Neon Blue Stripe, and standard Chrome, along with Gold and Copper for varied water conditions. Shop on Amazon.
2. Eppinger Daredevil
The Eppinger Daredevil spoon is a classic fishing lure. It has been around for decades and still catches fish to this day. More northern pike have been caught on the half ounce red and white Daredevil than any other fishing lure. That is the most popular bait in this line. The five of diamonds pattern is popular as well, especially for anglers trolling for lake trout. This lure is available in a wide variety of colors and several sizes. Shop on Amazon.
3. Sougayilang Colorful Hard Spoon Spinner
The Sougayilang Colorful Hard Spoon Spinner Fishing Lures are designed to be trolled, cast, drifted or jigged. These lures come in five colors, with nickel or gold-plated blade finishes, brass bodies, stainless steel split rings and steel treble hooks. They can be used in different fishing scenarios, such as trolling with a side planer or casting off a jetty. With their beautiful action in the water and durable construction, these lures are highly recommended for both experienced anglers and beginners looking to enhance their fishing experience. Shop on Amazon.
4. Acme Little Cleo
Another classic from Acme Tackle Company, the Little Cleo Spoon has a long-standing reputation for catching big trout, particularly rainbow trout and steelhead. Its traditional spoon shape creates an erratic wobble that mimics the natural movement of prey, making it irresistible to predatory fish. Design: Available in both smooth and hammered finishes for added versatility. Sizes: Ranges from 1/8 oz. for smaller trout to 1 1/4 oz. for larger game fish. Colors: Must-have colors include Nickel Neon Blue, Nickel Neon Green, and Nickel Black Stripe. Glow finishes are also available for night fishing. Shop on Amazon.
5. Acme Phoebe
The Acme Phoebe Spoon is a highly realistic baitfish imitator, featuring a unique curved body and protruding fins that create a lifelike wobble. Although it may not be as well-known as the Kastmaster or Little Cleo, the Phoebe Spoon is a hidden gem that consistently produces results. Design: Unique curved body with hammered texture for enhanced realism. Sizes: Lightweight, making it ideal for small water trout fishing. Colors: Metallic Perch, Brown Trout, and Copper are top choices, especially in stained water. Shop on Amazon.
6. Luhr Jensen Krocodile
The Luhr Jensen Krocodile Spoon is designed for targeting larger predators, including trophy-sized trout. The Krocodile spoon casts like a bullet due to its dense, rear-weighted design that allows it to fly long distances even in gusty conditions. One side features a slight impression that allows the spoon to flutter as it falls through the water column and generates its exaggerated side-to-side wobbling action as it is retrieved. Shop on Amazon.
7. THKFISH Fishing Lures
THKFISH Fishing Lures Trout Lures Fishing Spoons Lures for Trout Pike Bass Crappie Walleye Color A 1/8oz 5pcs are designed with an aerodynamic shape and streamlined shape for impressive casting distances. The precision-machined spoons won’t break, bend, or corrode and have an attractive flash that attracts fish. The life-like swimming action lures produce a wild and erratic action with a special balance that produces wild action without line twist. Shop on Amazon.
8. Johnson Silver Minnow
An example of this lure type and by far the most popular weedless spoon is the Johnson Silver Minnow, which is offered in 17 colors and weights ranging from 1/16 oz to 1 1/8 oz. Popular spoons of this style are also produced by Bagley, Tsunami, H&M and Cajun Thunder. This spoon style should be a top choice when targeting redfish and flounder in water depths of less than three feet, especially when casting into or near heavy cover, oyster beds, rocks or mangroves. Shop on Amazon.
9. South Bend Kast-A-Way
The South Bend Kast-A-Way Spoons are lures that are perfect for game fishing, and they are especially good for panfishes and trouts. With their unique airflow design and dancing movement that resembles a real fish, these lures are the best bet for anyone who wants to catch fish. The Kast-A-Way spoons are designed to attract fish with their shimmering action in the water. They have a unique air flow design that makes them ideal for casting and jigging. Shop on Amazon.
Comparison Table of Top Fishing Spoons
| Spoon Model | Weight Range | Target Species | Key Features | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acme Kastmaster | 1/32 oz – 3/4 oz | Trout, Salmon, Steelhead | Aerodynamic, tight wobble | $4 – $10 |
| Eppinger Daredevil | 1/2 oz | Northern Pike, Lake Trout | Classic red/white design | $5 – $12 |
| Sougayilang Spinner | 1/2 oz | Pike, Salmon, Trout | Colorful, versatile | $9 – $15 |
| Acme Little Cleo | 1/8 oz – 1 1/4 oz | Rainbow Trout, Steelhead | Erratic wobble, glow finishes | $5 – $10 |
| Acme Phoebe | 1/64 oz – 1/8 oz | Brown Trout, Panfish | Lifelike wobble, lightweight | $4 – $8 |
| Luhr Jensen Krocodile | Varies | Trophy Trout | Long-distance casting | $6 – $12 |
| THKFISH Lures | 1/8 oz – 3/4 oz | Trout, Pike, Bass | Anti-corrosion, erratic action | $9 – $15 |
| Johnson Silver Minnow | 1/16 oz – 1 1/8 oz | Redfish, Flounder | Weedless, durable | $3 – $8 |
| South Bend Kast-A-Way | 1/8 oz – 1/2 oz | Trout, Panfish | Airflow design, shimmering | $4 – $10 |
Pros and Cons of Top Fishing Spoons
Acme Kastmaster
- Pros: Long casting distance, durable brass construction, versatile for multiple species.
- Cons: May lack weight for deep trolling.
Eppinger Daredevil
- Pros: Proven track record for pike, wide color variety.
- Cons: Less effective in shallow streams.
Sougayilang Spinner
- Pros: Vibrant colors, suitable for various techniques.
- Cons: Smaller sizes may not attract larger fish.
Testing Scenarios and Performance
In a simulated test on a Tennessee River lake targeting 1/2 – 3/4 lb striped bass, the Sougayilang spoons outperformed others. Using bait-casting reels with 12 lb test line, the spoons were fished at different depths. They consistently attracted fish due to their vibrant colors and action. In another test on a shallow trout stream, the Acme Phoebe excelled due to its lightweight design, avoiding hang-ups while producing lifelike wobble. For offshore trolling, the Luhr Jensen Krocodile was tested behind a boat at steady speeds, attracting tuna and mahi mahi with its fluttering action.
Buying Guide for Fishing Spoons
- Consider the Target Species: Choose spoons like the Kastmaster for trout or the Daredevil for pike based on your target.
- Match Water Conditions: Use lightweight spoons like the Phoebe for shallow streams and heavier ones like the Krocodile for deep waters.
- Check Durability: Opt for precision-machined spoons like THKFISH that resist corrosion.
- Color and Finish: Select chrome or gold for clear water, and vibrant colors for murky conditions.
- Versatility: Spoons like Sougayilang can be used for trolling, casting, or jigging.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best fishing spoon for beginners?
The Acme Kastmaster is ideal for beginners due to its simple design, long casting distance, and versatility across species like trout and salmon.
How do I choose the right spoon size?
Choose smaller spoons (1/32 oz – 1/8 oz) for shallow waters or small fish, and larger ones (1/2 oz – 1 1/4 oz) for deeper waters or bigger species.
Can fishing spoons be used in saltwater?
Yes, spoons like the Kastmaster and Krocodile are designed to resist corrosion and are effective for saltwater species like tuna and striped bass.
What’s the difference between casting and trolling spoons?
Casting spoons are heavier for long-distance casting, while trolling spoons are lighter and designed to flutter behind a moving boat.
Conclusion
Fishing spoons remain a timeless and versatile lure for anglers in 2025. Whether you’re casting in shallow streams or trolling offshore, the top 9 spoons listed offer something for every scenario. Explore more fishing techniques at FishUSA or On The Water.