River Spinning Reel & Rod Combo
This article outlines a new spinning combo I’ve been using to target salmon, steelhead and larger trout (or any mid-larger fish) in my local rivers. I got this setup because I wanted something specific for tossing spoons and spinners for the river and some lakes. Additionally, this setup is perfect for tossing heavier lures from shore/rocks in tidal waters as well!
Penn Slammer IV and Ugly Stik combo
The reel I chose was a highend spinning reel that could handle both salt and freshwater. I wanted something that I could cast all day, so had to find a balance in sizing. I believe I found it with the Penn Slammer IV spinning reel – Model size 3500. This reel perfectly spools 150 yards of 30# braided line which is my go to spinning setup for my local rivers.
To pair with the reel, I went with the 8’6 Ugly Stik Elite Salmon/Steelhead spinning rod. This is a whippy medium fast action rod that’s perfect for launching spoons, spinners or even heavier jigs. This 8’6 length is perfect for fishing the big British Columbia rivers as the length offers longer casting distances. This longer length makes it easier to mend my line after each cast. I also chose the Medium-Heavy power rating for those larger fish in the heavier current, I wanted a beefy backbone but still with some whip to the tip for casting.
The first spinning rod I owned (still have and fish it) is an Ultralight Ugly Stik, I’ve literally had it for 35+ years! The Ugly Stiks are hands down the best bang for your buck when it comes to fishing rods in my opinion. I’ve taken this rod out a few times to the river already and am pumped with it. It is my go to spoon and spinner rod on the river right now.
Spooling up my reel with Braid & Leader Line
I have the 3500 model size of the Penn Slammer IV. The reel braid capacity outlined on the reel is (M/LB): 310/10 270/15 220/20. However, I like using a little heavier braid, I spooled my reel with 30# PowerPro braid, and this size of line I was able to get 150 yards on the spool.
From my braided mainline I always tie some sort of leader line or shock line to the lure. The leader line is typically around 12# to 15# fluorocarbon and ranges from 3′ to 5′ long.
Tossing Spoons & Spinners
This rod and reel combo I bought specifically for tossing spoons and spinners in the rivers. In my local rivers I’m targeting large salmon, Steelhead and various other species of Trout. That said, this combo is also perfect for tidal beach casting heavier lures like Buzz Bombs or weighted jigs. The rod whip can launch these heavier lures (2-6oz) way out there! But again my primary usage for this rod will be non-tidal rivers and some lakes.
Tossing spoons slightly upriver in faster current and I let them sink down and then reel in pretty quickly are a great way to target Salmon and Steelhead. Spoon fishing is a science of its own and its something you need to put the time into to really master and be successful. Also knowing the water depths and pockets will help you in ensuring you’re getting that spoon to the bottom.
How to Fish a Spoon in a River
A few basic tips to keep in mind when tossing spoons in a river or current. First toss a slightly (few degrees) upstream, if you’re getting hung up on the bottom toss less upstream and more directly in front of you. When the spoon hits the water, give it some slack (keep the bail open) this extra line out will ensure it sinks faster. You want that spoon as close to the bottom as possible as it begins drifting downriver. Then slowly work it back keeping your rod tip pointing downward toward the water and toward your spoon. Keeping the tip down will ensure your spoon fishes deep, when you lift your rod it’ll come up in the water column. Play around with retrieval speed and give a few jerks or pauses in various areas that you might think are deeper. You never know what might insight a strike!
Video demonstration below.