Spinning with Lures for Brook Trout
Casting and retrieving spinners, spoons or small soft plastics on light spinning tackle. Applied to brook trout, that means 2–6 lb main line and a ultralight to light, fast action; or a #2–#5 fly rod rod as your baseline.
Last reviewed 26 September 2026 · Editorial policy
Rod, reel, line and hooks
- Rod
- Ultralight to Light, fast action; or a #2–#5 fly rod, 5–8.5 ft
- Reel
- 1000 spinning, or a fly reel for #2–#5 line
- Main line
- 2–6 lb
- Hooks
- Size 10–18 flies; size 8–12 bait hooks; small inline spinners
- Method - Rod
- 6'–7'6" Light to Medium spinning rod
- Method - Line
- 6–12 lb mono or braid, matched to the species
- Method - Trace
- Wire or 40 lb+ fluorocarbon trace whenever pike may be present
Where the species baseline and the method spec differ, the method spec is the more specific advice - the species row tells you the strength you need, the method row tells you the behaviour you need.
Check prices for this setupWhy this works on this fish
How the rig works
A rotating blade or wobbling spoon puts out flash and vibration that predators detect on the lateral line as well as by sight, so it works in coloured water where sight-only baits fail.
Brook Trout behaviour
Opportunistic: insects, larvae, small fish, worms and crustaceans. Often less wary than brown trout.
Cold, clean, spring-fed streams, beaver ponds and upland lakes. Needs cooler water than most trout.
When to fish it
Cool water under roughly 65°F (18°C); overcast days and the first rise after rain.
Brook Trout tips
- Approach small streams low and quietly - the fish spook easily in shallow, clear water.
- Short rods cast more easily under overhanging branches.
- Many brook trout waters are fly-only or artificials-only - check local rules.
Other methods for brook trout
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Common questions
What line do I need for spinning with lures for brook trout?
Use 2–6 lb main line, adjusting for cover and water clarity.
What hook size for spinning with lures for brook trout?
Size 10–18 flies; size 8–12 bait hooks; small inline spinners.
What rod and reel suit spinning with lures for brook trout?
A ultralight to Light, fast action; or a #2–#5 fly rod rod around 5–8.5 ft with 1000 spinning, or a fly reel for #2–#5 line.
Is spinning with lures hard to learn?
Difficulty is 1/5 (very easy). Spinners twist line badly. Use a quality swivel and re-spool when coils appear.
When does spinning with lures work best for brook trout?
Cool water under roughly 65°F (18°C); overcast days and the first rise after rain.