There are plenty of spinnerbaits out there but in terms of this site when I say a ‘large spinnerbait’ I’m referring to a 1/2oz model that weighs a bit more and I would throw on a heavy rod. The other type of spinnerbait that I like to use is a more compact one that I would throw on my medium heavy rod, but the focus for this page will be the bigger one.
The spinnerbait has been around for a very long time. These days it doesn’t seem to be as popular as some other lures like the bladed jig, umbrella rig and underspin have gained popularity, but I personally still like to throw one and it continues to work well for me. In terms of colors, I usually like to go with a natural / electric shad looking profile, white, and chartreuse and white if the visibility is lower. Blade types and colors can also vary on spinnerbaits, and I usually like to go with a double willow blade if the water is clear or a tandem (willow and colorado) if the visibility is lower.
One of the main reasons I like a spinnerbait is it comes through cover a little better than something like an umbrella rig. Don’t get me wrong umbrella rigs can definitely catch fish, but if you are fishing around a lot of cover and there’s a lot of stuff that can cause it to get snagged and hung up, replacing them can start to get expensive and time consuming. On the other hand a spinnerbait is easier to rig up and doesn’t cost as much but still offers a similar profile which works well if the fish are feeding on shad.
In terms of when to use one, there are a lot of opinions on that. Some people will say to use one when it’s windy. Others will say it works well in early spring. I personally think it can be a good option if there’s cover around and they are feeding on shad, although I will admit that I have noticed that it does seem to do especially well if it’s windy and partly cloudy. As far as specific baits go, my current favorite is the Damiki TOT and they currently offer a Type1 and Type2 model.
Lure Summary – Large Spinnerbait
Suggested Rod Length: 7’2″ – 7’6″
Suggested Rod Power: Heavy
Suggested Rod Action: Fast
Suggested Reel Type: Casting Reel
Suggested Gear Ratio: 6.2:1
Lure Weight (est.): 1.08oz
Tackle Required
- 17lb Fluorocarbon Line
Suggested Baits
- 1/2oz Damiki TOT Type1 Double Willow
- 1/2oz Damiki TOT Type2 Tandem Colorado
Suggested Soft Plastic Baits
- 4.25″ Rapala Crush City Freeloader