Fishing spoon: Spinning or wobbling

To do this, you'll need to vary both the colour and the size of the blade. The shape can also have an impact on the vibrations that this type of lure can transmit in different waters.

You'll need to choose between a model that rotates around an axis and one with a curved profile for working downhill. You'll also need to choose between a single or treblehook.

Depending on the species you're targeting, you'll need a reel with a ratio that's not too fast. This will avoid too much vibration and allow the lure to work well in the water. The rod should not be too fast. Nylon lines can help to overcome this problem.

All that's left for you to do is go to the water's edge, observe the surface and, based on your observations, decide on the right tackle to use for your session.

SPINNERS

This model is certainly the most popular around the world. Quite simply because it is capable of catching all types of fish with very little equipment.

The spinning spoon is made up of several components. The principle is to rotate a paddle, which can take several shapes, around an axis. This produces strong vibrations and flashes of light that attract your target from a distance.

You can target almost any predator if you choose the right size and weight. This means you'll be able to cover both river and lake predators, from catfish to small trout.

Pike or zander will not be outdone, just like perch. There is no right or wrong season. Only the retrieve speed can be reduced during the winter and increased during the warmer periods.

Rods with a regular action will be a plus. The vibrations emitted can be uncomfortable in the hands, especially if you are fishing with a line such as braid. Eliminating some of this turbulence can also help you detect bites better.

Finally, you should opt for a reel with a fairly slow retrieve. This will help to make the lure work as effectively as possible. You'll be sure that the spinning won't throw your rig out of the water as soon as you're in a bit of current.

UNDULATING SPOON MODELS

The principle here is a little different from what we saw above. Wobbling spoon lures work the water column in a different way, making them complementary in use.

They will also cover the stalking of many freshwater predators. Whether used in the current of a river or on still water, you'll be sure to get a quick bite.

The lure is generally made up of a metal section that acts as both body and weight. A ring split in the head and one in the tail with a hook, and that's it. As you can see, the shape of the body and its animation are the two most important points.

You can choose to animate it by bringing it up very high and then letting it drop back down to the bottom. It will then be necessary to remain in contact with the lure at all times, so there should be no slack in the line body during the descent. A fairly long rod and a suitable reel will be preferable to ensure that the lure rises to the bottom.

The other animation will be more for trout fishing in streams and rivers. This will be a mixture of small pulls and releases that will naturally follow the right veins to drift towards the mouth of the fish.

Colour and reflections can also play an important role. They can be the key to catching the lure and making your fishing trip a success.

EVERY BRAND HAS A MODEL TO OFFER

With varying degrees of innovation, almost every brand of tackle has a model to offer. For both river and lake fishing, you'll find different models almost everywhere. Our guide on how to rig a line with a lure will help you choose the right size and colour for the fish you're after during your next fishing session.

What's more, the area practices of recent years have prompted leading salmonid designers to take up the challenge with innovative materials and shapes. Tungsten is making an appearance at River2sea, while plastic alloys are being used by Live Target.

Rapala is not to be outdone with its large undulating pike fishing lures. These ABS designs ensure unique colouring as well as great resistance to the teeth.

Mepps for spinners, this is quite simply the reference not to be missed. They clearly dominate the world market in terms of design, efficiency and historic French know-how.

Blue Fox and Smith also offer a host of models that have proved their worth on the water. There's plenty of variety, and new models come out regularly to test out new concepts.

Sauve Bredouille devant l'éternel, you'll need to have a variety of lures in your tackle boxes. Of course, you won't be fishing on the surface with them, but a well-executed rig and a choice based on the conditions of the day should get the better of even the most wary fish.

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