Replacement arrived!By the way, I did forget to mention that the original lure did have a decent strike however as most anglers will attest you can get a hit ua-cam.com/users/postUgkxCbNOWAGmn6nfbCbJDmasvBq7J38KZNw2 and fish will hang on and release lure. I used the replacement lure yesterday and ran thru a Shimano Waxwing, Kastmaster, Bobber (set to sink). I found the does run deep (I casting on the flats 3.5'). Make sure you adjust your rate of retrieve and rod tip angle (up) to prevent getting snagged on bottom. Used it a couple of times and action was very lifelike (looked like local bait fish for trevally), craftsmanship very good....however eyeball fell out. I asked for replacement and it is on it's way! It was very easy to change out treble to single inline hook.
For longtime striped-bass fishermen like me who are just getting into big flutter spoons, this video is extraordinarily valuable, in every respect. Your approach is straightforward and detailed, which is perfect for a how-to session like this. THANK YOU!
So generous sharing info, so informative, learned a lot. I was able to pass the knowledge on to my son and we have been killing stripers here on Long Island NY. You have new fans. Thanks again so special.
Thanks for the tip on doubling the spoons, I tried it with some cheap ebay blanks and it was almost the same as my Ben Parker. Great for Bass fishing in shallower 15-20' water.
Thank you for sharing this information. I've been learning how to fish with spoons recently and I'm thankful for you and all the other fisherman who share knowledge to helps us all catch more fish and have a good time on the water.
Have you ever done a video on targeting summer lake striper at dusk into night and past dark? What the fish are doing differently if anything and what baits to use (live bait or spoons). I just got into striper fishing this year and I learn something new every trip with A LOT of help from your videos.
I have trolled them with a carolina weight on the front to go deeper in the water column or no weight at all while at 3-4 mph troll holding the rod tip along the water pointed down butt up pulling and releasing action. I have been very successful on blues and stripers. It is a great lure. Thanks for the info.🎣🎣🎣
@@MikeSmedleyOLDSCHOOLSTRIPERS yes absolutely I caught one 2 weeks ago at Shinnecock inlet. I dropped the spoon it hit bottom and as I cranked up to start jigging to my surprise I was hooked up. Small undersized fluke 15 inch range. Now just waiting for the Long Island fall striper run. Thanks again.
Hey Robert good info. About how deep would the 9" get at that speed and with what line. I know using lead core and 2 oz bucktail jig I'm about 25+ deep with 6 colors or 180' plus 6-10' leader.
@@2olvets443 30lb power pro and 40lb leader 4ft. 1/2 oz to a 1 1/2 oz and play with the amount of line you let out and trolling speeds will get you in the 10 to 20 ft range. You need to work the pole in long sweeping motions keeping tension on the spoon to get it to flutter back. Good luck. 🎣🎣🎣
Do u add the swivel to ease the leverage at the treble, like this guy talks about?? I’m a lake mead guy too!!! Been on a kayak for a few years… just getting into jogging!!
Thanks for sharing your amazing information. I used a 5” spoon you recommended. I forgot to add the swivel. I hooked a nice one with it. As it got to the boat it popped the spoon right off. The spoon went over her head and when she turned she pushed it right out of her mouth.
I didn’t add length to the hook on a 4” Ben Parker spoon. It popped loose when the fish got close to me exactly like you said. Like he pried it right out of his mouth. I’ll be adding a barrel swivel to it. Thank you for all your awesome info.
You should try putting 2 spoons together on the split rings without epoxying them together. Wonder if it would make a good noise for the fish or of the action would be any different
I tried it with smaller spoons. You need huge rings. It behaved pretty weird. They already make quite a lot of noise. The hook swings up and slams the spoon at every drop. I attached a camera before and I was pretty surprised at how loud the spoons are. 👍👍
I used these spoons for the first time over the summer I have to say I’m a real fan. Caught about 40 keepers over the summer. I use to live line pogies but this is so much easier.
Definitely catching fish faster and more fish. I watch your videos and I can’t wait until March when the boat goes in the slip. Thanks for the tip about the swivel. I did this to all my spoons and it made a huge difference on the amount of fish that stayed on the spoon. Keep up the great videos!
I’m gonna give this a try in the Hudson River trying to imitate herring for striper. Herring and blood worms are the two big things used here and bloods are expensive.
Would you use a spoon for white bass as well? Or you would use something else? Also which flutter spoon would you use if you were targeting the whites?
I did very well there with cut bait mid way backs of the creeks all winter and way back in the Spring. Set up on points and chunk em out. 👍👍 stumpy creek was great in March.
Quick question on the size of barrel swivels, on Amazon they go from a size 0 to 10. I am in Oklahoma and will be fishing some of the big lakes in the area. I put in an order for the 8" spoons but not sure on the barrel swivel size. Help please. Thanks
Great informative video. Thank you! Will it be effective for trolling as well? Aiming mainly for large king mackerels and amberjacks - will it do the job?
Oh hell yeah!! My buddy is catching big Lake trout trolling them. They look incredible when trolled. I would use the 9” version for Kings. 👍👍👍. Keep me posted on that. I’d love to hear how they work for you.
Good question. The spoon is widest near the hook just for that reason. There is also a swivel at the top of the spoon. I didn’t change the hooks, just added the swivel. 👍
@@MikeSmedleyOLDSCHOOLSTRIPERS thanx for getting back to me. Much appreciated. Going out striper fishing this Sunday on the Parker Pete. Going with 9 inch spoons set up exactly the way you showed in the video. Keeper hooks and all. Thank you for the advice. Love your videos you're a legend.
On a lake loaded with threadfin and gizzard shad would you use the chrome or silver color over the shad colors in any circumstance? I’m going to order a few of the big Ben Parker spoons and was curious about your thoughts. I’ve heard chrome on sunny days and white on overcast days but I was curious about the shad colors.
Everything I’ve seen has mostly to do with water clarity regardless of bait types. In deeper water you can get away with more. The deeper you go, the less color matters a lot of the time. I wouldn’t buy a bunch of different colors. If I was going to a new lake I would make sure I have 1 copper, 1 gold/silver and 1 all silver or shattered glass. I consider copper the best ALL AROUND color. It’s a great shallow color too. In muddy water or low light all silver might out fish copper. Deeper than 40-50 fr I don’t think it matters as much. My buddies like the colored spoons more than I do.
Mike, question for you, how do you attach these to your main line? Do you use leader? If so, how do you make your connections from main line (braid) to leader? Swivel? Swivel snap? Knots? Also, how do you connect the leader to the jig? Snap? Knot?
Mike, if I’m buying Ben Parker spoons, can you give me some advice on sizes and colors. Just starting to try your technique. Really enjoy your videos, they keep me sane during the winter months when I can’t fish. Thank you for any help.
I fish a lake that has small striper but they’re fun to catch! What size spoon should I use for these smaller fish? I’ve always just used chicken liver to fish them but I wanna try spoons.
Captain, I bought one pack each of two sizes of the ball bearing swivel you recommended. The swivel itself is of reasonable quality stainless steel, but the split rings used are of poor quality non-stainless metal. They are not flattened, and the wire is not burnished, not friendly to leader lines if you tie directly to the split ring.
@@ABC-jb2rg Thanks for the heads-up brother. Unfortunately they have changed their designs or where they get them several times now. I haven’t ordered from them since then personally, but another guy said they were different as well. That’s sucks. Thanks again!
Newbie fisher here - do people ever put spoons on Carolina rigs? The weight issue you mentioned has been the main problem so far in the one time I used a spoon as I couldn't cast it more than 15 yards or so as it was so light! Thanks in advance!
Great video. This spoon absolutely works. What size assist hooks are you using on the top ? Have you rigged any of these with singles or assist hooks top and bottom ?
What 30lbs fluorocarbon leader would you recommend? Sorry if you answered this before, I’v e gone though several of you provided links but haven’t come across leader recommendations. I’ve picked up some of the fishing lines ( Pro Spec through your link-thank you for that!
Thanks Aaron! I love Aftco Saiko fluorocarbon line. I was lucky enough to use/test this line before it was available. Most fluorocarbons have similar low vis capabilities but Saiko is alot softer than any other I’ve tried. That’s great because fluorocarbon is a hard line that can hinder your baits action. It’s what I use soley. Now I have been working with Reaction lines for 3 or 4 years now and it’s all really good and less than half the cost of other brands Braid, mono. I’m always on the lookout for more affordable products I can recommend because I understand that not everybody can afford the highest end gear. I have used Reaction braid and mono alot, but I haven’t tried their fluoro. I’m sure it’s great like their other lines. Here’s the link. amzn.to/3J4OyQ1. Sorry I don’t have a link for Saiko, but if you just want the best go with Saiko. Thanks for your support brother!! Also, Pro spec is a very good mono. Top of the heap for sure, especially when compared to their Big game line. You also might want to try Reaction mono. It’s mega soft too. 👍
@@MikeSmedleyOLDSCHOOLSTRIPERS ok, thanks. Do you do guest speaking engagements with clubs? I'm vice president of the year old club "Lake Oconee Striper Club" in Georgia. We have monthly meetings and like to have a speaker. Some in person, some via video chat. Would you be interested? Thanks Darcy Flynn.
Never too big!! Flutter spoons are one bait that I don’t get concerned with matching the hatch. It’s very hard for a fish to get a good look at it. Especially in deeper water.
Hi Mike, I'm a new subscriber and just found your channel. Great info about the jigging spoons, thanks. You have an interesting idea about epoxying two smaller spoons together to increase the weight. Is there a certain weight or drop speed that you try to achieve by increasing the weight? Do you get more bites on a heavier spoon with a faster drop or are you just trying to get the smaller spoons down in fast current? I generally use the lightest weight I can still hit the bottom with in order to get the slowest drop and most flutter. What do you think, is a slow drop or a faster drop better? Thanks!
I’m just like you. We probably fish the same. I like the slowest drop possible. The only time I want a heavier spoon is in deeper water and when the current moves a lot faster than we are drifting and spoon scopes WAY out. I use the standard weight 98% of the time probably. 👍👍. Great question. Thanks.
Which size spoon would you suggest for the hybrid bass? The water on our lake (LKN) is too warm for stripers and the hybrids don’t get really big. 4-8 pounds is about it. And thanks for all the great content.
Believe it or not I would still start with the 8” spoon. It’s the flash and flutter that makes them bite. They really can’t tell the exact size of the spoon if you work it right and keep it moving. The deeper the spoon the less of it they can see. I have caught Hybrids on this and Stripers as small as 12 inches. 👍👍
Great Information Mike. Only 2 on spoons (trolling) this year for me and some friends tell me 1 out of maybe 10 on spoon. All other catches on the buck tail jigs trolling with lead core. Here on SML if you don't remember.
Wow... bought the split ring swivels from your link.... They Suck! the split ring part opened up on a medium sized fish... happened twice... How could you recommend them?????
Really??? What sizes did you get? I’ll pull the links down if they are the big ones. I’m still lifting fish into the boat by the spoons with those very swivels this week. Unless they are too small, they may have had a bad batch. If so, I’m definitely pulling down the links. No bad batches allowed. Please let me know. Thanks for the heads-up. I think I listed the 125lb for 8” spoons. Is that what you got? What spoons did you lose? I’ll send you some replacements.
I am using the 8oz spoons... and Thank you if it wasn't for your videos I probably wouldn't have tried them... Just started using them a few weeks ago, and swear by them now. I'm a commercial fisherman... Just checked .. I was using the smaller ones.... But It should open that way no matter the size...
If it’s a deep bite it usually drops off as the sun sets, but if they are in less than 20 feet of water or if you have lights out they will chew all night long. Check out this video towards the end, they never quite biting. ua-cam.com/video/lUI3rdsESXY/v-deo.html
How do you keep the treble hook from fouling on the spoon after adding the swivel? I tried it and the treble swings around and gets caught up in the split ring almost every drop.
Huh. I can’t tell you if that happened even once that I can remember. Seriously. It’s never been an issue and we use them constantly. Might need to change Hook or ring size maybe.
The best rod is the slow pitch rod Rich Coulson makes. We are working on a signature jigging rod right now. You can get one from Rich. His email is in the description. 👍👍. It’s the best you can get.
Sure. When fishing is lights out a single hook is fine, but I honestly don’t see a problem with a treble. They almost never get hooked deeper than an inch or so inside the mouth. 👍
@@MikeSmedleyOLDSCHOOLSTRIPERS thanks.. my issue with trebles on larger lures has always been due to the unbuttoning.. that is more likely due to my poor skills and luck but always looking for something else to blame - especially if I can buy more stuff! :)
Hey Mike great information as usual. In regards to adding weight to a spoon you might want to try lead flashing like what they use for roofing. It comes in different thicknesses and would you would very easily be able to cut it press it into shape and epoxy it to the spoon. And if the gray color doesn't suit you you can paint it or epoxy it with glitter whatever you desire. Good luck.
Just put your spoons together with heavy split rings.then whenever you need another single spoon just take them apart. No need for epoxy. If you think that the clatter of the double spoons doesn't get bit,then you can put double sided tape or thin foam between them. It will also hold sent better
The 88’s I have are quite thick. I had to change the Amazon store twice because they keep selling out. I’m wondering if the sizes have changed. If you have second thoughts go with #5 121lbers. Pull them hard with pliers to see if they straighten.
Wow! I was amazed at the sizes of those, but makes complete sense. Do you have a video of rod and line setup? I saw another comment where you mentioned braid to fluorocarbon with FG knot, what pound tests and leader lengths? Thanks so much for all your videos. I want to target Stripers on Lake Buchanan here in central Tx. and your information is so helpful! Much appreciated! Have a great week! 👍👍✌️🎣
I’m gonna shoot a video covering all of that this week actually. I talk about it a bit in my last few fishing videos where we are jigging, but I will go into more detail in this next one. Thanks brother!
Thanks so much for such a fast reply! I’ve been real busy lately. I’ll backtrack and find your videos. I’m sure I received notifications, just haven’t looked at many lately. Thanks again brother Mike..God bless! I was actually already on Amazon looking at those spoons when you replied, they’re awesome! 👍🙂
I don't have Stripers in my lake but we do have hybrids. If they are as aggressive as the white bass that they are genetically engineered from, I'll bet they would tear into a big spoon like those. It's fall feeding time so game on! Let's get on the crab!
Replacement arrived!By the way, I did forget to mention that the original lure did have a decent strike however as most anglers will attest you can get a hit ua-cam.com/users/postUgkxCbNOWAGmn6nfbCbJDmasvBq7J38KZNw2 and fish will hang on and release lure. I used the replacement lure yesterday and ran thru a Shimano Waxwing, Kastmaster, Bobber (set to sink). I found the does run deep (I casting on the flats 3.5'). Make sure you adjust your rate of retrieve and rod tip angle (up) to prevent getting snagged on bottom. Used it a couple of times and action was very lifelike (looked like local bait fish for trevally), craftsmanship very good....however eyeball fell out. I asked for replacement and it is on it's way! It was very easy to change out treble to single inline hook.
For longtime striped-bass fishermen like me who are just getting into big flutter spoons, this video is extraordinarily valuable, in every respect. Your approach is straightforward and detailed, which is perfect for a how-to session like this. THANK YOU!
That’s awesome Chris!! I really appreciate that brother!! Thanks! 👍👍🙏
I agree keep up the good work, very informative ,nice to see someone that's not afraid to share their knowledge. Thank you very much sir
Yep, I appreciate everything so now I’m going to listen to everything. I appreciate your can’t wait to get out there and try.
So generous sharing info, so informative, learned a lot. I was able to pass the knowledge on to my son and we have been killing stripers here on Long Island NY. You have new fans. Thanks again so special.
Thank you Dan!!!! I really appreciate the comment!! 😁
Thanks for the tip on doubling the spoons, I tried it with some cheap ebay blanks and it was almost the same as my Ben Parker. Great for Bass fishing in shallower 15-20' water.
Thank you for sharing this information. I've been learning how to fish with spoons recently and I'm thankful for you and all the other fisherman who share knowledge to helps us all catch more fish and have a good time on the water.
Thanks brother!!🙏🙏
Just received these spoons they look and feel amazing can't wait to try them. Thank you for all your help Mike. You are the best.
Thanks brother. Catch em all. 🙏😁
Have you ever done a video on targeting summer lake striper at dusk into night and past dark? What the fish are doing differently if anything and what baits to use (live bait or spoons). I just got into striper fishing this year and I learn something new every trip with A LOT of help from your videos.
Thanks for the good info now all we need is some striper in south like you guy have up there
Thanks brother! It’s funny, the south has the best freshwater Striper fishing and the North has the best Saltwater, with an overlap in Virginia.
Thanks bro just bought me a bunch of those spoons. Not exactly like that but real close nickel spoons.
I have trolled them with a carolina weight on the front to go deeper in the water column or no weight at all while at 3-4 mph troll holding the rod tip along the water pointed down butt up pulling and releasing action. I have been very successful on blues and stripers. It is a great lure. Thanks for the info.🎣🎣🎣
Great info. Thanks brother! I actually caught a bunch of decent sized Fluke on these while trolling shallow before.
@@MikeSmedleyOLDSCHOOLSTRIPERS yes absolutely I caught one 2 weeks ago at Shinnecock inlet. I dropped the spoon it hit bottom and as I cranked up to start jigging to my surprise I was hooked up. Small undersized fluke 15 inch range. Now just waiting for the Long Island fall striper run. Thanks again.
Hey Robert good info. About how deep would the 9" get at that speed and with what line.
I know using lead core and 2 oz bucktail jig I'm about 25+ deep with 6 colors or 180' plus 6-10' leader.
@@2olvets443 30lb power pro and 40lb leader 4ft. 1/2 oz to a 1 1/2 oz and play with the amount of line you let out and trolling speeds will get you in the 10 to 20 ft range. You need to work the pole in long sweeping motions keeping tension on the spoon to get it to flutter back. Good luck. 🎣🎣🎣
@@robertrusso2122 NICE!
Awesome info bro! I love using spoons and I’ve been on the fence on buying a couple of these. Looks like it’s time to order!
Thanks brother!! If you already like using spoons you’re really gonna dig these. Hand made in the US too.
I've been using krocadile spoons since the 80s in Lake Mead for stripers with excellent success
👍👍👍
Do u add the swivel to ease the leverage at the treble, like this guy talks about?? I’m a lake mead guy too!!! Been on a kayak for a few years… just getting into jogging!!
Yes sir. Keeps them hooked 👍
@@brianguillen8988 Yes sir! It’s good to add a swivel on any long bait.
Thanks Mike!! Appreciate the response!! Love the vids!!
Love the great striper info , keep em coming .
Thanks brother! I appreciate that.
Thanks for sharing your amazing information. I used a 5” spoon you recommended. I forgot to add the swivel. I hooked a nice one with it. As it got to the boat it popped the spoon right off. The spoon went over her head and when she turned she pushed it right out of her mouth.
Yeah man. It’s crazy how that spoon wants to jump out as the fish gets closer. That swivel works wonders 👍👍👍. Thanks for the comment brother!!
I think Ive found my favorite Striper channel!
Thanks brother!!! 😁😁🙏🙏
I didn’t add length to the hook on a 4” Ben Parker spoon. It popped loose when the fish got close to me exactly like you said. Like he pried it right out of his mouth. I’ll be adding a barrel swivel to it. Thank you for all your awesome info.
Thanks brother!! I appreciate it! Thanks for your support! 🙏
You should try putting 2 spoons together on the split rings without epoxying them together. Wonder if it would make a good noise for the fish or of the action would be any different
I tried it with smaller spoons. You need huge rings. It behaved pretty weird. They already make quite a lot of noise. The hook swings up and slams the spoon at every drop. I attached a camera before and I was pretty surprised at how loud the spoons are. 👍👍
Hi Mike, I’m new to your channel and really like it. Thanks for all the knowledge buddy!
Thanks brother!!!🙏🙏🙏
I used these spoons for the first time over the summer I have to say I’m a real fan. Caught about 40 keepers over the summer. I use to live line pogies but this is so much easier.
Awesome! Definitely easier, are you finding that you catch fish faster too, and better numbers overall?
Definitely catching fish faster and more fish. I watch your videos and I can’t wait until March when the boat goes in the slip. Thanks for the tip about the swivel. I did this to all my spoons and it made a huge difference on the amount of fish that stayed on the spoon. Keep up the great videos!
@@TheNipz1968 awesome!! I really appreciate the support brother.
I’m gonna give this a try in the Hudson River trying to imitate herring for striper. Herring and blood worms are the two big things used here and bloods are expensive.
Hell yeah brother. They work great there. 👍👍👍
What size tandem assist hooks do you recommend on those 8 to 9 inch spoons for jigging? (9:00+)
Tricks of the trade from Team Old School.....Fish on
My man!!
Great video. I could use more like it. Thank you
Thanks brother!
I painted the shattered glass patterns with UV blast to protect the laminate sticker. The UV effect maybe benign but it can’t hurt.
Cool.
Great video, I've been wanting to try one of these
🙏🙏👍
Would you use a spoon for white bass as well? Or you would use something else?
Also which flutter spoon would you use if you were targeting the whites?
Just found you and really enjoying your videos. Lots of great info. Any tips for targeting hybrids and the few striper in Lake Norman?
I did very well there with cut bait mid way backs of the creeks all winter and way back in the Spring. Set up on points and chunk em out. 👍👍 stumpy creek was great in March.
Great video! Thanks for taking the time to provide all of this information. I enjoy and learn something new from all of your videos.
Thanks Bob! I appreciate that brother
Have you tried using Hyper-Vis on your stainless spoons
What weight in leader do you use for the Ben Parker Spoons?
Thank you for your videos!
Usually 25lbs, but sometimes up or down a little. 20-30.
Solid tips, thanks for sharing. Just bought my first mojo setup a few weeks back, looks like big spoons will have to be next on the list!
Thanks brother!! 👍👍🙏🙏
Great idea to epoxy 2 together. Good info here as always.
Thanks brother!! I was wondering if people would watch long enough to see that one. I try to stick the cooler, lesser known stuff at the end. 😁👍👍
Awesome videos !! Great information!
Thanks Mike!
Quick question on the size of barrel swivels, on Amazon they go from a size 0 to 10. I am in Oklahoma and will be fishing some of the big lakes in the area. I put in an order for the 8" spoons but not sure on the barrel swivel size. Help please. Thanks
I have tried most of the larger sizes and I ended up going with the largest they have. 9/0 and 10/0.
@@MikeSmedleyOLDSCHOOLSTRIPERS Thank you for all the tips.
Mike....any links for replacement flashaboo treble hooks? Thanks again
Awesome Mike thanks, perfect timing for the October run!
Yes sir!! Thanks brother!
Great informative video. Thank you!
Will it be effective for trolling as well?
Aiming mainly for large king mackerels and amberjacks - will it do the job?
Oh hell yeah!! My buddy is catching big Lake trout trolling them. They look incredible when trolled. I would use the 9” version for Kings. 👍👍👍. Keep me posted on that. I’d love to hear how they work for you.
@@MikeSmedleyOLDSCHOOLSTRIPERS
Thanks a lot!
I will be happy to share how it goes
Hey mike, i only fish sml in the summer, would you recommend using these at the dam during those summer months? If so which ones and around what depth
Can you use a c hook 7 or a 8 instead of a trouble hook
Sure, but on most days they swing and miss the spoon quite a bit. Live sonar will shock you how many times they miss.
Have you heard of not using epoxy but just attaching the 4 or 5 inchers by only the 2 splits rings?
Yes sir. Makes awesome racket 😁. I used an underwater camera with one and the noise was unbelievable!
I was saving that gem for another video but you beat me to it 😛. Nicely done 😁
Thanks for the awesome video. What leader do I use with the 9 inch spoon?
Sure brother!! I have a video near the top of the list that breaks all of the down, but I use 50lb main line with25ft of 20-30lb Fluoro top shot.
Doesnt the increased tail weight with a big barrel and treble change the designed action of the flutter spoon?
Good question. The spoon is widest near the hook just for that reason. There is also a swivel at the top of the spoon. I didn’t change the hooks, just added the swivel. 👍
Genius , thanks for the valuable intel
Thanks Chuck!!
Quick question. With the swivel being heavier than the split ring. Could that affect the action of the spoon? Thanx for the great video.
Not on spoons this size. Good question.
@@MikeSmedleyOLDSCHOOLSTRIPERS thanx for getting back to me. Much appreciated. Going out striper fishing this Sunday on the Parker Pete. Going with 9 inch spoons set up exactly the way you showed in the video. Keeper hooks and all. Thank you for the advice. Love your videos you're a legend.
On a lake loaded with threadfin and gizzard shad would you use the chrome or silver color over the shad colors in any circumstance? I’m going to order a few of the big Ben Parker spoons and was curious about your thoughts. I’ve heard chrome on sunny days and white on overcast days but I was curious about the shad colors.
Everything I’ve seen has mostly to do with water clarity regardless of bait types. In deeper water you can get away with more. The deeper you go, the less color matters a lot of the time. I wouldn’t buy a bunch of different colors. If I was going to a new lake I would make sure I have 1 copper, 1 gold/silver and 1 all silver or shattered glass. I consider copper the best ALL AROUND color. It’s a great shallow color too. In muddy water or low light all silver might out fish copper. Deeper than 40-50 fr I don’t think it matters as much. My buddies like the colored spoons more than I do.
@@MikeSmedleyOLDSCHOOLSTRIPERS appreciate the feedback brother! Keep killing it 💪
@@RiverRat22 yes sir!!! Thanks!
Always learn something new in you video's-thanks.
👍👍😁😁
Mike, question for you, how do you attach these to your main line? Do you use leader? If so, how do you make your connections from main line (braid) to leader? Swivel? Swivel snap? Knots? Also, how do you connect the leader to the jig? Snap? Knot?
Here you go brother!! It’s all here 👍👍ua-cam.com/video/CnLlG0R7nOU/v-deo.html
Mike, if I’m buying Ben Parker spoons, can you give me some advice on sizes and colors. Just starting to try your technique. Really enjoy your videos, they keep me sane during the winter months when I can’t fish. Thank you for any help.
Sure. Where are you fishing?
We fish out of Niantic, CT mostly. Once in a while we fish the Chesapeake Bay. Thanks for all your knowledge and your willingness to share.
I fish a lake that has small striper but they’re fun to catch! What size spoon should I use for these smaller fish? I’ve always just used chicken liver to fish them but I wanna try spoons.
I guess I’m the first looser! Keep the awesome videos coming bro!
Thanks brother
Captain, I bought one pack each of two sizes of the ball bearing swivel you recommended. The swivel itself is of reasonable quality stainless steel, but the split rings used are of poor quality non-stainless metal. They are not flattened, and the wire is not burnished, not friendly to leader lines if you tie directly to the split ring.
@@ABC-jb2rg Thanks for the heads-up brother. Unfortunately they have changed their designs or where they get them several times now. I haven’t ordered from them since then personally, but another guy said they were different as well. That’s sucks. Thanks again!
Newbie fisher here - do people ever put spoons on Carolina rigs? The weight issue you mentioned has been the main problem so far in the one time I used a spoon as I couldn't cast it more than 15 yards or so as it was so light! Thanks in advance!
For casting and retrieving you can use a Carolina rig yes, you will probably have a few tangles but it shouldn’t be that bad. 👍👍
@@MikeSmedleyOLDSCHOOLSTRIPERS Great, thanks for the reply! Do you have any suggestions for something that gives more weight but tangles less?
There huge!! For fresh water stripers in nc do you think that would really work? Match the hatch shad are like a 1-2”
Oh yeah!! I use them on Kerr and Smith Mountain. You can use the 6” if you want but I still use the 8’s.
Is there a link to the trolling motor u use? Thanks
Do you use a leader, snap swivel or tie directly?
@@CoolFindsNJ tie directly. For leader 20lbs or less I use double uni knot 25 and up I use FG.
Thanks Mike do you have a link how to rig up the line for retrieving a soon I'm using the Carolina rig
I use braided main line to a fluoro leader. I use an FG knot to connect the 2. I will post a video on that soon. Thanks brother!
I guess I'm asking is a Carolina ok for retrieving
Great video. This spoon absolutely works. What size assist hooks are you using on the top ? Have you rigged any of these with singles or assist hooks top and bottom ?
Thanks brother. I’ve pretty much tried every combination. They are made by All Pro charters. It’s their largest size. 👍👍
Also meant to ask what size swivels and split rings are you using for the 9” spoons ?
120lb test.
@@karlneumann6833 thats about a number 10, I was wondering the same thing myself
What 30lbs fluorocarbon leader would you recommend? Sorry if you answered this before, I’v e gone though several of you provided links but haven’t come across leader recommendations. I’ve picked up some of the fishing lines ( Pro Spec through your link-thank you for that!
Thanks Aaron! I love Aftco Saiko fluorocarbon line. I was lucky enough to use/test this line before it was available. Most fluorocarbons have similar low vis capabilities but Saiko is alot softer than any other I’ve tried. That’s great because fluorocarbon is a hard line that can hinder your baits action. It’s what I use soley. Now I have been working with Reaction lines for 3 or 4 years now and it’s all really good and less than half the cost of other brands Braid, mono. I’m always on the lookout for more affordable products I can recommend because I understand that not everybody can afford the highest end gear. I have used Reaction braid and mono alot, but I haven’t tried their fluoro. I’m sure it’s great like their other lines. Here’s the link. amzn.to/3J4OyQ1. Sorry I don’t have a link for Saiko, but if you just want the best go with Saiko. Thanks for your support brother!!
Also, Pro spec is a very good mono. Top of the heap for sure, especially when compared to their Big game line. You also might want to try Reaction mono. It’s mega soft too. 👍
Outstanding! Thank you brother! 👊
Have you ever tried trolling these spoons for striper
the first spoon is the same size you put in your description below on amazon?
The first spoon I showed is the 8”.
It’s the first listed in the description. Yep. 👍👍👍
@@MikeSmedleyOLDSCHOOLSTRIPERS thank!
@@freddybrian you got it brother 👍
@@MikeSmedleyOLDSCHOOLSTRIPERS how many oz you recommend for 30 ft?
@@freddybrian the 8” spoon is great for that depth. It’s 3.3 oz.
How do you keep the hook from catching the line when casting a spoon? Thanks 😊
It doesn’t happen very often actually.
@@MikeSmedleyOLDSCHOOLSTRIPERS ok, thanks. Do you do guest speaking engagements with clubs? I'm vice president of the year old club "Lake Oconee Striper Club" in Georgia. We have monthly meetings and like to have a speaker. Some in person, some via video chat. Would you be interested? Thanks Darcy Flynn.
Just got my spoon - looks great! Hopefully not too big for our water
Never too big!! Flutter spoons are one bait that I don’t get concerned with matching the hatch. It’s very hard for a fish to get a good look at it. Especially in deeper water.
So if you are going to cast/retrieve, you don’t need to add the assist hook on the top correct?
Correct 👍👍
Hey Mike.. what size assist hook?
What size assist hooks do you use on the different size spoons? Thanks
4/0 and 5/0.
Hi Mike, I'm a new subscriber and just found your channel. Great info about the jigging spoons, thanks. You have an interesting idea about epoxying two smaller spoons together to increase the weight. Is there a certain weight or drop speed that you try to achieve by increasing the weight? Do you get more bites on a heavier spoon with a faster drop or are you just trying to get the smaller spoons down in fast current? I generally use the lightest weight I can still hit the bottom with in order to get the slowest drop and most flutter. What do you think, is a slow drop or a faster drop better? Thanks!
I’m just like you. We probably fish the same. I like the slowest drop possible. The only time I want a heavier spoon is in deeper water and when the current moves a lot faster than we are drifting and spoon scopes WAY out. I use the standard weight 98% of the time probably. 👍👍. Great question. Thanks.
Which size spoon would you suggest for the hybrid bass? The water on our lake (LKN) is too warm for stripers and the hybrids don’t get really big. 4-8 pounds is about it. And thanks for all the great content.
Believe it or not I would still start with the 8” spoon. It’s the flash and flutter that makes them bite. They really can’t tell the exact size of the spoon if you work it right and keep it moving. The deeper the spoon the less of it they can see. I have caught Hybrids on this and Stripers as small as 12 inches. 👍👍
@@MikeSmedleyOLDSCHOOLSTRIPERS Wow! Many thanks Mike for all you do to help people like myself. You're a class act.
@@harrillwiggins1375 thank you sir!!😁👍. Very kind of you.
Great Information Mike. Only 2 on spoons (trolling) this year for me and some friends tell me 1 out of maybe 10 on spoon. All other catches on the buck tail jigs trolling with lead core. Here on SML if you don't remember.
Cool! Thanks for the info.
Wow... bought the split ring swivels from your link.... They Suck! the split ring part opened up on a medium sized fish... happened twice... How could you recommend them?????
Really??? What sizes did you get? I’ll pull the links down if they are the big ones. I’m still lifting fish into the boat by the spoons with those very swivels this week.
Unless they are too small, they may have had a bad batch. If so, I’m definitely pulling down the links. No bad batches allowed. Please let me know. Thanks for the heads-up.
I think I listed the 125lb for 8” spoons. Is that what you got?
What spoons did you lose? I’ll send you some replacements.
I think I listed the 125lb for 8” spoons. Is that what you got?
What spoons did you lose? I’ll shoot out some replacements. Email me your address. Mikesmedley9@gmail.com
I am using the 8oz spoons... and Thank you if it wasn't for your videos I probably wouldn't have tried them... Just started using them a few weeks ago, and swear by them now. I'm a commercial fisherman... Just checked .. I was using the smaller ones.... But It should open that way no matter the size...
Coolio. Email me your address. Mikesmedley9@gmail.com
What size swivels
120lb
What size barrel swivel there r many options on your link
#7 and #8.
Thank you. Once the sun goes down - can you still use spoons?
If it’s a deep bite it usually drops off as the sun sets, but if they are in less than 20 feet of water or if you have lights out they will chew all night long. Check out this video towards the end, they never quite biting. ua-cam.com/video/lUI3rdsESXY/v-deo.html
Old Fisherman uses these on Lake Murray they work.
They are a big time bait on Murray for sure👍👍👍
How do you keep the treble hook from fouling on the spoon after adding the swivel? I tried it and the treble swings around and gets caught up in the split ring almost every drop.
Huh. I can’t tell you if that happened even once that I can remember. Seriously. It’s never been an issue and we use them constantly. Might need to change Hook or ring size maybe.
Hi Mike, looking for the right spinning rod for that 8”. What characteristics would you recommend for the 3.5oz lure?
The best rod is the slow pitch rod Rich Coulson makes. We are working on a signature jigging rod right now. You can get one from Rich. His email is in the description. 👍👍. It’s the best you can get.
@@MikeSmedleyOLDSCHOOLSTRIPERS thanks mike, I’ll reach out, what should I ask for?
I don’t mind waiting for the signature rod.
You can tell him we spoke and you want the signature version with the weighted butt. 👍
What type of line should I be using with a spoon
Here ya go!! 1/3 the price of most braid. I love it. amzn.to/42qznrH
Blue camo 50lb. Use fluoro or mono leader 25lb.
So flutter spoons work at night?
Hey Mike can i use it off the beach?
Sure. I cast them a lot in freshwater. 👍👍
@Mike Smedley cool thanks
Mike, how do you keep your metal so shinny - Do you rub them with anything?
Not when they are new, but when they start to get dull I use steel wool. They shine right up.
@@MikeSmedleyOLDSCHOOLSTRIPERS thanks Mike. Appreciate it brother.
😁👍
Have you ever rigged with just a single hook instead of the treble?
Sure. When fishing is lights out a single hook is fine, but I honestly don’t see a problem with a treble. They almost never get hooked deeper than an inch or so inside the mouth. 👍
@@MikeSmedleyOLDSCHOOLSTRIPERS thanks.. my issue with trebles on larger lures has always been due to the unbuttoning.. that is more likely due to my poor skills and luck but always looking for something else to blame - especially if I can buy more stuff! :)
Hey Mike great information as usual. In regards to adding weight to a spoon you might want to try lead flashing like what they use for roofing. It comes in different thicknesses and would you would very easily be able to cut it press it into shape and epoxy it to the spoon. And if the gray color doesn't suit you you can paint it or epoxy it with glitter whatever you desire. Good luck.
Wow. I didn’t even know that existed. Hell yeah!
How can I buy them? Tried googling and cant find your store
There are Amazon links in the description 👍👍thanks!
We’re can I order the spoons from
amzn.to/32x6lZk 👍👍👍
Ive sandwitched spoons like that for a while and thought I was the only one cuz everyone said they never heard of that.
It’s not a very common trick. I remember doing it as a kid before I actually heard of it. I used crazy glue back then though 😆
Just put your spoons together with heavy split rings.then whenever you need another single spoon just take them apart. No need for epoxy. If you think that the clatter of the double spoons doesn't get bit,then you can put double sided tape or thin foam between them. It will also hold sent better
Do you ever use spoons in fresh water lakes?
Absolutely. That’s where I started using them actually. 👍👍
I bought the ball bearings the split Rings they Supply look awfully thin sies 8
You got the 88lb strength? #8?
The 88’s I have are quite thick. I had to change the Amazon store twice because they keep selling out. I’m wondering if the sizes have changed. If you have second thoughts go with #5 121lbers. Pull them hard with pliers to see if they straighten.
Wow! I was amazed at the sizes of those, but makes complete sense. Do you have a video of rod and line setup? I saw another comment where you mentioned braid to fluorocarbon with FG knot, what pound tests and leader lengths? Thanks so much for all your videos. I want to target Stripers on Lake Buchanan here in central Tx. and your information is so helpful! Much appreciated! Have a great week! 👍👍✌️🎣
I’m gonna shoot a video covering all of that this week actually. I talk about it a bit in my last few fishing videos where we are jigging, but I will go into more detail in this next one. Thanks brother!
Thanks so much for such a fast reply! I’ve been real busy lately. I’ll backtrack and find your videos. I’m sure I received notifications, just haven’t looked at many lately. Thanks again brother Mike..God bless! I was actually already on Amazon looking at those spoons when you replied, they’re awesome! 👍🙂
@@charlieboutin3341 sure brother!! My pleasure!! I will have that video up possibly later this week for you. Thanks for the idea.
I don't have Stripers in my lake but we do have hybrids. If they are as aggressive as the white bass that they are genetically engineered from, I'll bet they would tear into a big spoon like those. It's fall feeding time so game on! Let's get on the crab!
Absolutely. I’ve caught Hybrids on these before. They are nasty.
Mike Smedley Sweet!
What's your favorite color for Jersey stripers?
Copper and Gold and some silver
Mike....could you troll those big spoons?
Definitely. I actually trolled them in a long no wake zone, just hanging off the back of the boat and caught all kinds of fish on it.
Can you troll with it?
First
👍
soooooooo ridiculously expensive
It always comes down to what the market will bear brother. I know people that own $700 coolers and $300 refrigerators 😱🤣😂😉.
@@MikeSmedleyOLDSCHOOLSTRIPERS I'll stick to my 2 ounce steel shads.....and I cry when I loose one of those!!!!!!!!
👍👍👍👍👍👍😁
Adding all that weight to the back of a flutter spoon changes the action. Don’t do it.
If you haven’t tried it. I recommend giving it a go 😁