Best Lures for Salmon Fishing: Tips, Techniques, and Top Picks

Introduction

Salmon fishing is a popular sport that requires the right gear and techniques to be successful. One essential component of salmon fishing is choosing the right lure. In this article, we’ll explore the best lures for salmon fishing, including spoons, spinners, jigs, and plugs. We’ll also discuss the factors to consider when choosing a lure and provide tips for using lures to catch more salmon.

Types of Lures for Salmon Fishing

Spoons: Spoons are a popular type of lure for salmon fishing. They are designed to mimic the movement of baitfish, making them an attractive option for salmon. To use a spoon, cast it out and reel it in at a steady pace. Some of the best spoons for salmon fishing include the Acme Kastmaster, Blue Fox Pixee Spoon, and Luhr-Jensen Krocodile.

Spinners: Spinners are another popular type of lure for salmon fishing. They feature a rotating blade that creates vibrations in the water, attracting salmon. To use a spinner, cast it out and retrieve it with a steady, slow retrieve. Some of the best spinners for salmon fishing include the Blue Fox Vibrax, Mepps Aglia Spinner, and Panther Martin Spinner.

Jigs: Jigs are a versatile type of lure that can be used for both freshwater and saltwater fishing. They are designed to mimic the movement of a wounded baitfish, making them a great option for salmon. To use a jig, cast it out and retrieve it with short, quick jerks. Some of the best jigs for salmon fishing include the Benthos Fishing Paddle Tail Jig, Berkley Gulp! Swimming Mullet, and Hogy Sand Eel Jig.

Plugs: Plugs are a type of lure that can be used for both trolling and casting. They are designed to mimic the movement of a baitfish or other prey, making them an attractive option for salmon. To use a plug, cast it out or troll it behind a boat at a slow to medium speed. Some of the best plugs for salmon fishing include the Rapala X-Rap, Rebel Minnow, and Yo-Zuri Crystal Minnow.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Lures for Salmon Fishing

When choosing a lure for salmon fishing, there are several factors to consider:

Water Clarity: If the water is murky, choose a lure with a bright color that will stand out. If the water is clear, choose a lure with a more natural color.

Water Depth: Different types of lures are designed to fish at different depths. Consider the depth of the water you’ll be fishing in and choose a lure that will fish at the right depth.

Time of Day: Salmon may be more active at different times of the day. Consider the time of day you’ll be fishing and choose a lure that will be effective during that time.

Weather: The weather can affect how salmon behave and how they respond to lures. Consider the weather conditions and choose a lure that will be effective in those conditions.

Salmon Species: Different species of salmon may prefer different types of lures. Research the species of salmon you’ll be targeting and choose a lure that will be effective for that species.

Tips for Using Lures for Salmon Fishing

Using the right gear: Use a rod and reel that are appropriate for the size of the lure you’ll be using and the size of the fish you’ll be targeting.

Techniques for Lure Retrieval: Vary your retrieve to mimic the movement of a wounded baitfish. Try a steady retrieve, a stop-and-go retrieve, or a twitching retrieve

Presentation of the Lure: When presenting the lure, try to make it look as natural as possible. Avoid making sudden movements that might scare the fish.

Pay Attention to Your Surroundings: Keep an eye out for signs of fish activity, such as jumping fish or birds diving into the water. Pay attention to the movement of the water and any changes in the weather.

Top Salmon Fishing Lures

Best Spoons for Salmon Fishing

1. Acme Kastmaster: This spoon is designed to be versatile and effective in a wide range of fishing situations. It’s available in a variety of colors and sizes to match the conditions you’re fishing in.
2. Blue Fox Pixee Spoon: This spoon features a hammered finish that creates a lot of flash in the water. It’s effective for both casting and trolling.
3. Luhr-Jensen Krocodile: This spoon is designed to be lightweight and easy to cast. It has a wobbling action that mimics the movement of a baitfish.

Best Spinners for Salmon Fishing

1. Blue Fox Vibrax: This spinner features a rotating blade that creates a lot of vibration in the water. It’s available in a variety of colors and sizes to match the conditions you’re fishing in.
2. Mepps Aglia Spinner: This spinner features a French blade that creates a lot of flash in the water. It’s available in a variety of colors and sizes to match the conditions you’re fishing in.
3. Panther Martin Spinner: This spinner features a unique blade design that creates a lot of vibration in the water. It’s available in a variety of colors and sizes to match the conditions you’re fishing in.

Best Jigs for Salmon Fishing

1. Benthos Fishing Paddle Tail Jig: This jig features a realistic paddle tail that mimics the movement of a baitfish. It’s available in a variety of colors and sizes to match the conditions you’re fishing in.
2. Berkley Gulp! Swimming Mullet: This jig features a scent that attracts fish and a realistic swimming action that mimics the movement of a baitfish.
3. Hogy Sand Eel Jig: This jig is designed to imitate the movement of a sand eel, which is a favorite food of many species of salmon. It’s available in a variety of colors and sizes to match the conditions you’re fishing in.

Best Plugs for Salmon Fishing

1. Rapala X-Rap: This plug features a realistic swimming action that mimics the movement of a baitfish. It’s available in a variety of colors and sizes to match the conditions you’re fishing in.
2. Rebel Minnow: This plug is designed to be easy to cast and retrieve. It has a realistic swimming action that mimics the movement of a baitfish.
3. Yo-Zuri Crystal Minnow: This plug features a realistic finish that mimics the scales of a baitfish. It’s available in a variety of colors and sizes to match the conditions you’re fishing in.

Conclusion

Choosing the right lure is essential for successful salmon fishing. By considering the factors that affect lure choice and using the right techniques, you can catch more salmon and have a more enjoyable fishing experience. The lures we’ve discussed in this article are some of the best options for salmon fishing, but there are many other lures available that may work well in different conditions. Try out a variety of lures to find the ones that work best for you, and enjoy the thrill of catching salmon with the right lure!