Construction and use of the baited spoon

What is a baited spoon

Simply it is a sawn-off tablespoon next to a hook which spins attracting fish. Normally used to target flounder, hence the alternative name the flounder spoon, it will also attract other fish. The baited spoon has stood the test of time and merits a place in every tackle box.

How to make a baited spoon

  1. Buy some table spoons. Don't pay through the nose, go for the cheap rubbish. These are easier to work with and not so costly to lose.

  2. Hacksaw the handle off as close to the spoon as possible and file smooth. This is important to avoid cutting the line.

  3. Drill a small hole and smooth. Exact size in unimportant but it should be big enough to allow a length of 50-60 lb line freely through.

  4. Cut a piece of 50-60 lb line about 30 cm long and pass through the hole. (some people use wire but I find line better). The high strength is because of abrasion caused by the soon spinning.

  5. Tie a large swivel at one end and a smaller one at the other protected by a bead as shown.

  6. Tie on a length of line about 5 lb weaker than your main line. This will allow the hook to snap off if snagged. The line should be 2-3 times the length of the spoon. This will allow the worm to be threaded up the hook easier and to trail behind.

  7. Slip a few small beads on and attach a long shanked hook, 1/0 or 2/0 is ideal for decent sized flounder.

Fishing method

  1. Use a light rod capable of casting the spoon without adding more weight.
  2. Bait the hook as normal.
  3. Cast as far as possible. Remember fish expect food to travel with the current not against.
  4. Reel in at a speed which causes the spoon to rotate as close to the bottom as possible. This takes a bit of practice. Try a short cast in clear water and note the feel between dragging along the bottom and spinning. A lot of resistance indicates your retrieving to fast.
  5. Allow the spoon to come to a rest once in a while for a few seconds. This helps keep it low and allows extra time in the water. It also disturbs the mud slightly which draws attention.
  6. Check bait is intact and start again.

 

Flounder spoons fish best in fading light or in coloured water. Small estuaries are great hunting grounds in the summer. Time and time again I see anglers attach a spoon to a paternoster, cast out and leave motionless for 20 minutes. The baited spoon is a cross between bait fishing and spinning and requires a bit effort.

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