Best Salmon Lures: Top Picks for Trolling and Casting

The Rapala Original Jointed Minnow is a versatile lure that can be used in both trolling and casting situations. Its broken back design creates a lifelike swimming action that mimics a wounded baitfish. This lure is particularly effective when fished with a slow retrieve, as the jointed body produces a wide, enticing action that drives salmon to strike. The Rapala Original Jointed Minnow is available in multiple sizes and colors, making it a great choice for varying water conditions.

When selecting the best salmon lures, it's important to consider various factors that can influence your success on the water. Here are some key criteria to keep in mind:

Water Conditions

Clear Water

In clear water, salmon can be more selective, so using natural colors that mimic the local forage can be highly effective. Lures with reflective finishes, such as the ACME Tackle K.O. Wobbler Spoon, work well because they imitate the flash of a fleeing baitfish.

Stained or Murky Water

In murky water, visibility is reduced, so brighter and more vibrant colors are necessary to attract salmon. Lures like the Moonshine Lures Trolling Spoon with its glow-in-the-dark finish can stand out in low-visibility conditions and entice strikes.

Depth and Trolling Speed

Shallow Waters

In shallower waters, using lures that create a lot of action, such as the Yakima Bait Spin-N-Fish, can be effective because they draw attention with both movement and scent.

Deeper Waters

For deeper waters, it's important to use lures that can reach the desired depth without losing action. The Dreamweaver Magnum Spoon is a great option for deeper trolling, as its design ensures a strong wobble even at great depths.

Target Species and Size

Large Salmon

If you're targeting larger salmon, you may want to use larger lures that imitate the bigger prey these fish typically hunt. The Dreamweaver Magnum Spoon is ideal for this purpose due to its size and action.

Smaller Salmon

For smaller salmon, downsizing your lure can be beneficial. The Rapala Original Jointed Minnow, especially in smaller sizes, can be a great choice when targeting smaller or more finicky salmon.

Water Temperature and Season

Cold Water (Early Season)

During colder months or in early spring, salmon are often less aggressive, so slower presentations with lures like the Yakima Bait Mag Lip, which can be fished at varying speeds, are effective.

Warm Water (Late Season)

In warmer water conditions, salmon are more active, and faster-moving lures such as the Blue Fox Classic Vibrax Spinner can trigger reaction strikes due to their loud vibration and quick movement.

Versatility and Flexibility

Trolling and Casting

Some lures, like the Rapala Original Jointed Minnow, offer versatility, allowing them to be used for both trolling and casting. This flexibility can be particularly useful if you're fishing in different environments or targeting salmon at various depths.

Angler Skill Level

Beginner-Friendly Lures

If you're new to salmon fishing, lures like the Blue Fox Classic Vibrax Spinner are easy to use and highly effective, making them great choices for beginners.

Advanced Techniques

For more experienced anglers looking to fine-tune their approach, lures like the Deep Rig Tackle Herring Strips allow for more customization in presentation, catering to specific conditions and fish behavior.

By considering these factors and choosing the right lures based on your fishing environment and target species, you'll be well-equipped to enhance your salmon fishing experience. Whether trolling or casting, the lures mentioned in this guide are some of the best available and will help you reel in more salmon on your next trip.

Choosing the best salmon lure can significantly influence your success on the water. Whether you're trolling or casting, the right lure can attract the attention of even the most elusive salmon. By considering factors such as water conditions, depth, target species, and your skill level, you can select lures that will maximize your chances of landing a trophy fish. The lures highlighted in this guide, from the versatile Rapala Original Jointed Minnow to the effective Moonshine Lures Trolling Spoon, are proven performers that deserve a place in your tackle box.

Remember, successful salmon fishing often requires experimentation and adaptability. Don't be afraid to change up your lures, try different colors, and adjust your techniques based on the conditions you encounter. With the right tools and knowledge, you'll be well on your way to a productive and enjoyable salmon fishing experience. Happy fishing!