Inline spinners are a deceptively simple yet highly effective fishing lure, prized by anglers of all skill levels. Their spinning blade creates a mesmerizing flash and vibration that attracts fish from a distance, mimicking the erratic movements of fleeing baitfish. This action triggers an instinctive predatory response in a wide variety of species, making inline spinners a versatile tool in any angler's arsenal. From crystal-clear streams to murky rivers, their adaptability shines through.This comprehensive guide dives deep into the world of inline spinners, covering blade types, color selection, retrieve techniques, and tackling line twist. We'll explore how to optimize depth control, choose the right tackle, and even add trailers to enhance your lure's effectiveness. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, this guide provides the knowledge and strategies you need to master this fundamental fishing technique and significantly improve your catch rate.
Pros And Cons
- Easy to use
- Effective bait
- Can be used in various water conditions (clear, stained, cloudy)
- Effective in streams
- Can be weighted to run deeper
- Can be used with different blade types (round, willow leaf)
- Variety of colors and patterns available
- Can create line twist (unless a swivel is used)
- Heavy line can affect lure's action
Read more: 5 Killer Spinnerbait Fishing Lures You Need
Understanding Inline Spinners
Inline spinners are a fundamental type of fishing lure, characterized by their simplicity and effectiveness. They consist of a straight wire, a spinning blade, and a hook. The blade's rotation creates enticing flashes and vibrations, attracting fish from a distance.
These lures are surprisingly versatile and easy to use, making them a great choice for both beginners and experienced anglers alike. Their effectiveness stems from mimicking the movement of baitfish, triggering a predatory response in many species.
Blade Variations and Color Selection
The blade is a crucial element, influencing the lure's action and effectiveness. Gold blades are particularly effective in murky or stained water, while silver blades shine in clear water conditions. Different blade shapes also create varying actions.
Color choices are equally vital. High-contrast patterns like black and white (e.g., Maps' Black Fury) excel in low-light situations, whereas more natural baitfish patterns (like rainbow trout) are effective in brighter conditions.
Blade Types and Depth Control
Beyond round blades, willow leaf blades offer a distinct advantage. Their design creates less drag, allowing the spinner to run deeper in the water column. This is crucial for targeting fish holding deeper in the water or near the bottom.
Adding weight ahead of the spinner further enhances depth control, allowing you to effectively fish different water layers. This adjustment becomes essential when targeting fish in deeper pools or near structure.
Effective Inline Spinner Techniques
Inline spinners excel in stream fishing, mimicking a baitfish being swept downstream. Casting along the edges of currents, near rocks, or other structures effectively presents the lure to fish. This natural drift adds realism.
Smaller spinners, like Rooster Tails and Mepps Aglias, are particularly effective in tough conditions and are a good choice for stream fishing. These compact lures are highly versatile and often produce results when other lures fail.
Gear and Line Selection
Using light line and gear is crucial for maximum effectiveness. Lighter setups allow for a more natural lure action, increasing the chances of a strike. Heavy lines hinder the lure's performance.
The exception to this is larger spinners, such as musky bucktails, which are substantial enough to handle heavier tackle. For most situations, however, a lightweight setup is recommended to ensure optimal lure action and sensitivity.
Preventing Line Twist and Swivel Usage
Inline spinners' spinning action often causes line twist. To combat this, using a swivel is essential. A swivel can be placed higher up the line or incorporated into a snap swivel.
When using a snap swivel, opt for the smallest size appropriate for the targeted fish to minimize its impact on the lure's action. For smaller spinners, tying directly to the spinner and adding a swivel about a foot up the line is an effective strategy.
Retrieving and Identifying Issues
Pay attention to the feel of your retrieve. A slow retrieve, or snags, indicate problems. These issues can significantly impact the effectiveness of the lure.
Adjust your retrieve speed and ensure the lure spins freely to maintain optimal action. Obstructions or improper retrieve can significantly reduce the lure's appeal and catch rate.
Trailers and Weedless Options
While trailers aren't typically used with treble hook inline spinners due to balance issues, single hook spinners benefit greatly from trailers. A simple paddle-tail minnow or plastic grub enhances the lure's appearance and effectiveness.
Weedless options include spinners with wide plastic or rubber trailers that cover the hook points. Spinners like the Mepps Weedless and Les Davis Bolo are specifically designed to minimize snags in heavy vegetation.
Conclusion and Recommendations
Inline spinners are a versatile and essential addition to any angler's tackle box. For beginners, starting with a mix of small (Rooster Tails, Mepps #1/#2) and larger spinners (Mepps #5 in gold and silver) is ideal. Consider adding a Maps Comet to your collection as well.
Choose trailer patterns that mimic local baitfish. Experiment with different blade types, colors, and retrieves to optimize your fishing success with inline spinners. Remember, the right gear, technique and attention to detail will ensure your inline spinner fishing is effective.