Salmon Lures

Kathleen Underwood
15 min readSep 19, 2024
Salmon-Lures-1

If you're a passionate angler, there's nothing quite like the thrill of catching a big, beautiful salmon. But it takes more than just a sturdy rod and reel to land one. Enter the world of salmon lures – the carefully crafted baits designed to attract these magnificent fish. In this article, we'll delve into the top salmon lures available on the market and help you find the perfect one for your next fishing adventure.

From colorful jigs and spinners to deceptively life-like artificial baits, our roundup includes a diverse selection of salmon lures. We'll cover the key features of each, along with pros and cons to help you make an informed decision. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner getting your feet wet, our guide will help you navigate through the world of salmon lures and be on your way to a successful day on the water.

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Reviews

Salmon Catcher Lure with Glowing Bead and Smile Blade

Salmon Catcher Lure with Glowing Bead and Smile Blade | Image

If you're a serious angler, the Cha Cha Sockeye Squidder might just become your go-to lure. This nifty little tool was made for one specific target: sockeye salmon - and it's been doing the job brilliantly for the past few decades. It's not just any typical lure; it boasts a premium skirt and UV beads for added attraction, as well as red hooks that'll get bites from even the shiest of fish.

And its Smile Blade 1.5 design? Let's just say that it's been making rounds in the Northwest for a good reason. However, it's more than mere aesthetics - the smaller profile makes it a perfect fit for the soft mouths of kokanee fish, especially during the early and late seasons.

Despite the lack of reviews to back this up, the Cha Cha Sockeye Squidder's reputation precedes it and is worth a try for serious anglers.

Salmon Killer Lure 4.5 Apex - Popular Choice for Saltwater Trolling

Salmon Killer Lure 4.5 Apex — Popular Choice for Saltwater Trolling | Image

The Hot Spot Apex Salmon Lures have been a game-changer for my fishing adventures. With its eye-catching banana shape and unique vibrating and spinning action, I've found great success when trolling for salmon. The 4.5-inch model is perfect for targeting chinook and coho, as it can be used alone or with a flasher. The Apex comes pre-rigged with 72 inches of 25lb monofilament leader line, a 4/0 Siwash hook, and a beaded chain swivel for added versatility.

One of the standout features for me is the Apex's ability to work at various trolling speeds, making it a versatile addition to my fishing gear. However, I did notice that during colder months, early in the season, the 4.5 Apex might not be as effective. In such instances, switching to the 3.0 model works wonders, helping me adapt to the changing forage as the season progresses.

Overall, the Hot Spot Apex Salmon Lures have made a significant difference in my fishing experience, and I'm confident that they'll do the same for you.

Hot Spot Apex Salmon Killer Chrome/Blue Lure

Hot Spot Apex Salmon Killer Chrome/Blue Lure | Image

Imagine a day out on the water, casting your line and waiting for a bite. You've got the Hot Spot Apex Salmon Killer, a trusty companion that's proved its worth again and again. This unique spoon has become the go-to choice for West Coasters seeking to reel in those elusive ocean salmon.

Its design is unparalleled; the Apex Spoon offers impressive action even at slow trolling speeds, making it a versatile choice for any angler. The mono through-body snell connecting the line tie and single siwash hook ensures a firm grip on your catch, while still offering enough forgiveness to keep those big, wriggly salmon under control.

Whether you flatline it or run it behind a rigger ball or diver with a flasher, you'll find that the Hot Spot Apex Salmon Killer is a reliable performer in any situation. Don't be surprised if it earns you more than just a few stories to tell around the campfire. So, next time you're out on the water, make sure you've got one of these in your arsenal. It's a game-changer.

Hot Spot Apex Salmon Killer Lures

Savor the rush of reeling in a sizable catch with the Hot Spot Apex Salmon Killer - a top-notch lure renowned for its versatility on the West Coast. This ingenious spoon boasts a unique design that catches the attention of both marine predators and anglers alike.

With a 4/0 Siwash hook, a robust leader of 72 inches of 25lbs, and a beaded chain swivel that keeps the line untangled, this lure offers a reliable and durable performance. Although it might not guarantee you a world record, it certainly nudges the odds in your favor.

The mono through-body snell connecting the line tie and single siwash hook ensures smooth and seamless action, even at slow trolling speeds. This makes the Apex Salmon Killer the perfect companion for those who prefer a more relaxed pace when venturing out on the water.

Despite its robust construction and efficient design, this lure remains lightweight and easy to handle, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer to flatline or run it behind a rigger ball or diver. With a flasher attached, it excels in providing a captivating underwater spectacle that draws in the curious predators.

Apex Salmon Lure: Attractive Red/Pearl Option

Apex Salmon Lure: Attractive Red/Pearl Option | Image

As an avid angler, I've tried my fair share of lures, and the Apex Salmon Lure really stands out. I'd been searching for a versatile option that could handle both inshore and offshore fishing, and this one didn't disappoint. Its sleek red and pearl finish caught the attention of even the most elusive fish, while its 4.5-inch length was just the right size.

One of the best features was the 4/0 Siwash hook, which made it easy to hook larger creatures without the risk of losing your lure. The 72-inch leader of 25-pound test made the lure more durable and able to handle the tough battles that come with reeling in a big catch.

But wait, there's more! This lure also features a beaded chain swivel and a #5 swivel to hook, which ensured smooth movement and improved overall performance. I even tried it out on walleye and lake trout, and it worked like a charm, delivering a deadly strike every time.

My experience with the Apex Salmon Lure was nothing short of impressive, and it quickly became my go-to choice when heading out on the water. Sure, it might not be the cheapest option out there, but in my book, it's well worth the investment for any serious angler looking for a high-quality, versatile lure.

Hot Spot Apex Salmon Killer - Unique Spoon Lure with Siwash Hook

Hot Spot Apex Salmon Killer — Unique Spoon Lure with Siwash Hook | Image

The Hot Spot Apex Salmon Killer is a top-of-the-line fishing lure that has earned its reputation as a reliable and effective tool for catching ocean salmon. Its unique design and durable materials make it perfect for targeting these elusive fish, even in challenging conditions.

One of the highlights of this lure is its single Siwash hook, which offers incredible action even at slow trolling speeds. The Apex Spoon's mono through-body snell ensures that the fish stays firmly hooked throughout the entire catch, without risk of slipping out. You can choose to flatline this lure or run it behind a rigger ball or diver for even more versatility in your fishing approach.

The Hot Spot Apex Salmon Killer also comes with a beaded chain swivel and a #5 swivel to hook, making it a convenient and efficient choice for any angler looking to increase their chances of a great catch. The lure is available in various lengths to accommodate different fishing styles and preferences, but generally, it measures around 4 1/2 inches in length.

Overall, the Hot Spot Apex Salmon Killer is a well-rounded and effective tool for targeting salmon in the ocean. Its versatile design and durable components make it a top choice for experienced anglers and those looking to improve their fishing skills and success. With a 5-star rating and numerous satisfied customers, it's clear that this lure truly lives up to its hype as a top-selling ocean salmon spoon on the West Coast.

Hot Spot Apex Salmon Killer Lures - Precision Fishing Accessories

Hot Spot Apex Salmon Killer Lures — Precision Fishing Accessories | Image

The Hot Spot Apex Salmon Lures A6-419R is an impressive choice for any angler targeting saltwater Salmon. Measuring at 5.5 inches, this lure is designed to mimic the natural movement of bait fish, making it a top pick for catching both chinook and coho. A noteworthy feature of this lure is its versatility, as it can be trolled alone or with a flasher without compromising its vibrating and spinning action.

As a stock rigged lure, it comes complete with 72 inches of 25lb monofilament leader line, 4 bead chain swivel, and a 4/0 Siwash hook. The 4.5 Apex is suitable for trolling at speeds of 2.8 to 4.0 mph, ensuring that your chances of catching a fish are high, regardless of the season. Although the lure is primarily geared towards early-season crill, its adaptability to varying fish forage through the season makes it a reliable and popular choice among anglers.

Hot Spot Apex Salmon Fishing Lure

Hot Spot Apex Salmon Fishing Lure | Image

The Hot Spot Apex Salmon Killer is a top-selling ocean salmon spoon in the West Coast, renowned for its versatile performance and unique design. With a length of 4.5 inches, it is paired with a 4/0 Siwash hook and comes with a 72-inch, 25lb leader.

This salmon lure features a beaded chain swivel and a #5 swivel-hook connection, enhancing its action and durability. Its single siwash hook offers a high trolling speed while simultaneously providing a level of forgiveness, ensuring the lure stays securely hooked in the fish.

This lure can be used in various ways, including flatlining or trailing behind a diver or rigging ball with a flasher. For optimal results, attach a swivel ahead of the lure to reduce line twist. With its exceptional design and performance, the Hot Spot Apex Salmon Killer stands out as a valuable addition to any angler's arsenal.

EChip Technology Salmon Killer Rig for Multi-Species Trolling

EChip Technology Salmon Killer Rig for Multi-Species Trolling | Image

The Pro-Troll Salmon Killer Rig in Green Pearl is a unique multi-species trolling lure designed with EChip technology. This advanced feature duplicates the electrical nerve discharge of live bait, triggering strikes from nearby predators. One of the lure's standout features is its slow bend and broad trolling speed, which allows for optimal performance. The flared line holes also help eliminate line snags.

The lure comes in three sizes, with the 3.0 being 3 inches long and featuring 36 inches of 20 lb leader and a siwash hook size 3/0. The blade is 3/4 inches wide. The 4.5 version is 4.5 inches long, featuring 60 inches of 30 lb leader and a siwash hook size 5/0, along with a 3/4 inches wide blade. Lastly, the 5.0 variant boasts a 5-inch length, 60 inches of 30 lb leader, a siwash hook size 5/0, and a blade width of 1 inch.

One user noted that the lure's components rust up quickly when used in salt water, so it's essential to wash with fresh water after each use for optimal durability.

Mack's Lure Cha Cha 4-inch Salmon Lures

Mack’s Lure Cha Cha 4-inch Salmon Lures | Image

Get ready for an exciting angling adventure with the Mack's Lure Cha Cha 4-inch Salmon Series lure! This versatile and effective lure boasts a unique buoyant harness that guarantees a snag-free experience while showcasing an irresistible wobble action to entice your desired catch. The 2.8 Smile Blade offers superior action, eliminating the need for additional attractors.

The Mack's Lure Cha Cha 4-inch Salmon Series lure is equipped with a double hook design, featuring no-gap hooks for effortless catch and release. The tapered glow bead within the body adds to its alluring attraction factor, making it a popular pick for walleye, trout, and various other fish species. Whether you're targeting deep-sea fish or those lurking in the shallows, this lure serves as a reliable and adaptable option for impressive results.

Remember to abide by all local and state fishing restrictions while enjoying the beauty of nature.

Fishing Lures for Salmon with Solid Brass Bodies

Fishing Lures for Salmon with Solid Brass Bodies | Image

Last week, I went fishing on the Pacific Northwest coast and decided to try out the Mepps Salmon Kit. Let me tell you, the experience was nothing short of impressive! They selected 6 of the very best lures for tackle busting salmon, and I couldn't have been happier with my choice.

As a seasoned fisherman, I've dealt with my fair share of brutal salmon including big kings (chinook) and silvers (coho). But the Mepps lures stood strong against their powerful jaws and sharp teeth, withstanding the challenge with remarkable ease.

One of the most remarkable features of these lures is their rugged construction; each lure starts with a solid brass base, ensuring it can handle the force of big fish with an attitude. The combination of high-quality materials and painstaking attention to detail really shines through in their design.

My Mepps Salmon Kit included a variety of lures featuring solid brass bodies and blades, with silver plating on the blades. The flexible vinyl decals were silk-screened with UV inks to prevent fading, showing Mepps’ commitment to providing top-notch performance and durability.

Among the many lures included in the kit, my personal favorite was the 5/8 oz. Flying C hot orange with a silver blade, which caught my attention with its vibrant colors and shiny blades. Each lure in the kit had its own unique charm, making it an enjoyable experience to use them one by one.

Tigofly 12-Piece Salmon Lures Set for Trout and Steelhead: Perfect for Fishing Adventures

Tigofly 12-Piece Salmon Lures Set for Trout and Steelhead: Perfect for Fishing Adventures | Image

I've been using the Tigofly 12-piece wounded minnow fly lures for a while, and they've proven to be quite effective in catching different types of fish. These lures come in six vibrant colors, so they're easy to spot underwater.

One of the things I appreciate about these lures is their size - they're about 3-4 cm long, which is perfect for attracting larger fish, such as salmon and trout. Each set includes 12 lures, so you have enough to last you for quite a few fishing trips.

However, the hook size is only #8, which may not be ideal for everyone. Additionally, I found that, while the lures are slow-sinking, they don't stay submerged for as long as I'd like. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Tigofly lures have made a significant difference in my fishing experience, especially when targeting salmon and trout.

Buyer's Guide

Welcome to our comprehensive buyer's guide for salmon lures! Whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner looking to catch your first salmon, we've got you covered. In this guide, we'll discuss the essential features to consider when selecting a salmon lure, as well as some general advice for getting the most out of your fishing experience. Let's dive in!

Material and Durability

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a salmon lure is the material it's made of and its overall durability. Salmon lures will often come into contact with sharp rocks, rough underwater terrain, and the teeth of the fish themselves. High-quality lures will typically be crafted from materials such as hard plastic, metal, or a combination of both. Look for lures with strong connections between the body and the hooks to ensure that they can withstand the wear and tear of frequent use.

Color and Pattern

The color and pattern of a salmon lure can play a significant role in its effectiveness. Salmon are attracted to bright, contrasting colors and unique patterns that mimic the appearance of their natural prey. Some popular color combinations include red and white, green and yellow, and black and silver. When selecting a lure, consider the water clarity and depth where you'll be fishing, as well as the time of day. Brighter colors may be more visible in murky waters, while more subdued patterns may be preferred in clearer conditions.

Size and Weight

Size and weight are crucial factors to consider when choosing a salmon lure. In general, larger lures tend to be more effective for bigger fish, while smaller lures are better suited for smaller species. The weight of a lure can also impact its ability to sink or swim, depending on the intended depth and speed of retrieval. Experimenting with different sizes and weights can help you find the optimal combination for the specific conditions you're facing.

Hook Style and Gap

The hook style and gap of a salmon lure can significantly influence the fish's ability to grab onto it. In general, a larger hook gap is preferable for bigger fish, as it allows them to more easily engage the lure. There are several hook styles to choose from, including single hooks, treble hooks, and j-hooks. Each style has its advantages and disadvantages, so be sure to research which type is best suited for your specific fishing situation.

FAQ

Unveiling the World of Salmon Lures

Salmon lures form an assortment of fishing baits created to allure and catch salmon with utmost effectiveness. They come in diverse shapes, sizes, and colors, each boasting unique features that make them suitable for different fishing techniques and conditions. Some of the most common types of salmon lures include spoons, plugs with spinners, jigs, and soft baits. Despite their varied appearances, they all serve the same purpose - to entice and capture salmon.

These lures are typically affixed to a fishing line or suspended from a floater, and can either be trolled or cast. They are effective at replicating the natural appearance and movements of small fish or prey, making it easier for salmon to mistake them for a bite. Trolling involves dragging the lure behind the boat at a slow speed, while casting involves throwing the lure from the shore or boat to the target area.

What Makes a Top-Tier Salmon Lure?

A superior salmon lure should possess realistic visuals and colors to create a visually appealing presentation for the fish. The shape and size should also match the specific salmon species the angler intends to target. Big, flashy spoons with spinners may be what kings call, while smaller, more subtle soft baits may attract sockeyes and cohos. Additionally, a high-quality lure should be versatile, accommodating various techniques and resisting fouling, wear, and other damages.

A well-designed lure should also have excellent action or movement, which can trigger a salmon's strike, irrespective of the water conditions or depth.

Decoding the Art of Choosing the Optimal Salmon Lure

Selecting the perfect salmon lure depends on several variables such as the target salmon species, their feeding patterns, water conditions, and the fishing method. Begin by researching the specific salmon species you aim to catch, learning about their preferences, behaviors, and feeding areas.

Factor in the water temperature, clarity, depth, and presences of underwater obstacles. The fishing technique also plays a role - a baitcast jig may perform better in tight, narrow creeks, whereas a floating spoon jig with a spinner might thrive in larger lakes or open waters. Select a lure that matches the variables and maximizes your chances of success.

Celebrating the Best Salmon Lures for Trolling

Trolling lures are specifically designed to entice salmon as they move through the water. Their larger size and aggressive movements generate vibrant and eye-catching motions, drawing the attention of salmon. Popular options include spoons with spinners, hoochies, and plugs. These lures are often equipped with treble hooks to increase the likelihood of catching the fish.

When choosing a trolling lure, consider the water depth at which you plan to troll, as well as your boat's speed and water conditions. Some spoons are designed for fast, deep trolling, while others function better at slower speeds or shallower water. It is always advisable to carry a selection to cater to varying scenarios and adapt your presentation accordingly.

Discovering the Best Salmon Lures for Casting

Casting salmon lures are designed to be thrown and retrieved by the angler using flicking or spinning motions. Jigging lures, soft baits, and some spoons with spinners are ideal for casting. These smaller, lighter lures are easy to cast and control, yet they remain effective at attracting salmon.

When choosing a casting lure, consider the water conditions, depth, and prey you target. Smaller hooks and simpler designs are more suitable for low-visibility waters or shallow depths. Conversely, larger and more vibrant baits are ideal for deeper, clearer waters or larger, more aggressive salmon.

Mastering the Art of Rigging a Salmon Lure

Properly rigging a salmon lure involves securely attaching it to the fishing line while ensuring it maintains a natural and alluring appearance to the fish.

The rigging method varies based on the lure type and technique. Common methods include a running-lead with a sliding sinker, a swivel-sliding-sliding rig, and a slip-bobber setup. It is crucial to consider the lure's characteristics, such as color, size, and shape, and how they may influence the fish's reaction. Make sure the knots bonding the lure to the fishing line are strong and reliable, keeping the bait in its optimal position to create a lifelike, enticing illusion for the salmon.

As an Amazon Affiliate™, I earn from qualified purchases!

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