When the fish go deep, the game changes. Whether you’re targeting suspended walleye in a frigid lake or striped bass haunting offshore structures, jigging spoons are your ticket to the strike zone. These metal marvels aren’t just for trolling—they’re the secret weapon for vertical anglers who know how to make them dance. Let’s dive into the art of the vertical drop, from rigging hacks to pro-level retrieves that’ll have fish smacking your spoon like it’s happy hour.

Why Jigging Spoons Rule the Deep

Jigging spoons thrive where other lures fail. Their unique action and versatility make them kings of vertical fishing:

  • Silent Precision: Unlike noisy topwaters, spoons glide down with laser-focused vibrations that penetrate deep water. Fish key in on the click-clack rhythm as the spoon flutters.
  • Universal Appeal: Mimics injured baitfish, crawfish, or even shad—whatever your target species craves.
  • All-Day Reliability: No need to master complex retrieves. Just drop, jig, and repeat. Perfect for cold water, tough currents, or pressured fisheries.

Target Species: Walleye, striped bass, pike, catfish, crappie, and even saltwater species like redfish.

How to Choose the Right Jigging Spoon (Hint: Weight Matters)

Not all spoons are created equal. Here’s what actually determines success:

1. Size & Shape = Action

  • Thin, Flat Spoons (e.g., Lenox Tackle Original): Create erratic, fluttering dives for shallow structures or finicky summer fish.
  • Thick, Heavy Spoons (e.g., Northland Tackle Buck-Shot): Penetrate deep structure with slow, pulsing vibrations. Ideal for winter walleye.

2. Weight Matters (Cold Water = Slow Drops)

  • 1/8 oz to ¼ oz: For light winds or shallow drops (10–30 ft). Pair with a light spinning rod for finesse.
  • ½ oz +: Tackle strong currents or deep drop-offs (50+ ft). Adds casting distance and stability in rough water.

3. Color Psychology (Yes, It’s Science)

  • Natural Hues (silver, gold, perch): For clear water when fish hunt by sight.
  • Glo Bug Patterns (black/blue, chartreuse): Use in murky water or low light to trigger bites with vibration alone.

Pro Pick: A ¼ oz Lenox Tackle Original in silver/black. It’s a 3-season workhorse.

Vertical Drop Techniques: 3 Moves That’ll Trollish Fish into Submission

This isn’t “reeling in a spoon”—it’s engineering strikes. Master these techniques:

1. The Classic Yo-Yo

  • Move: Cast out, let the spoon sink to depth. Jerk the rod tip upward sharply, then let it flutter back down. Repeat with short, snappy pulls.
  • Why It Works: Mimics a crawfish scrambling up rocks. Walleye and pike can’t resist.

2. The Slow Death Drift

  • Move: Cast into current. Let the spoon sink naturally while using your rod tip to twitch it every 10 seconds.
  • Why It Works: Looks like a injured baitfish drifting in eddies. Perfect for striped bass in estuaries.

3. The Jigging Spook (For Aggressive Fish)

  • Move: Rapidly jig the spoon up 1–2 ft, then slam the rod tip down to create a violent splash. Pause. Repeat.
  • Why It Works: Triggers reaction strikes from lethargic winter fish. Use in deep, clear lakes.

Pro Tip: Use a light fluorocarbon line (8-10 lb test). It’s strong enough to handle toothy predators but subtle enough to feel the spoon’s vibrations.

When to Ditch the Spoon (Yes, Even You)

Spoons aren’t magic. Here’s when to switch gears:

  • Active Baitfish Schools: If shad are crashing the surface, swap to a spinnerbait or jerkbait.
  • Muddy Water: Spoons struggle to create vibration in silt. Use a chatterbait instead.
  • Shallow Weed Beds: Spoons snag easily. Try a weedless swimbait.

Spoon Maintenance 101 (They’re Not Indestructible)

Keep your spoons biting:

  1. Check for Damage: Bent spoons lose their action. Bend them back gently with pliers.
  2. Rinse After Fishing: Saltwater or algae buildup kills vibration. Rinse with fresh water.
  3. Store Properly: Keep them in a tackle tray—never pile them. Bent edges = lost fish.

The Real Secret? Let the Spoon Work

Vertical fishing is about patience. Listen to your line. Feel the taps and ticks. That light jerk on your rod? That’s the fish saying, “Mine now.”

Your Turn: What’s your go-to spoon setup? Lost one to a lunker pike? Share your story below—and tag a fishing buddy who needs this guide!

More Deep-Water Tactics:

  • “How to Land a 10-Pound Walleye with a $10 Spoon”
  • “Stop Spooking Fish: 5 Vertical Fishing Myths Debunked”