Spinning with Lures for Rainbow Trout
Casting and retrieving spinners, spoons or small soft plastics on light spinning tackle. Applied to rainbow trout, that means 4–8 lb main line and a light to ultralight, moderate action rod as your baseline.
Last reviewed 26 September 2026 · Editorial policy
Rod, reel, line and hooks
- Rod
- Light to Ultralight, moderate action, 6–7 ft
- Reel
- 1000–2500 spinning, or a 5wt fly outfit
- Main line
- 4–8 lb
- Hooks
- Size 8–14 bait hooks; size 10–18 flies
- 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.
Rainbow Trout behaviour
Insects, nymphs, small fish and eggs. Feeds on drifting food in current.
Cold, oxygen-rich streams, rivers and stocked stillwaters.
When to fish it
Water 50–65°F (10–18°C), overcast skies, during an insect hatch.
Rainbow Trout tips
- Use the lightest line you can get away with; trout are line-shy in clear water.
- Match the hatch — observe which insects are on the water before choosing a fly.
- In stocked stillwaters, count down a lure to find the depth holding fish.
Other methods for rainbow trout
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Common questions
What line do I need for spinning with lures for rainbow trout?
Use 4–8 lb main line, adjusting for cover and water clarity.
What hook size for spinning with lures for rainbow trout?
Size 8–14 bait hooks; size 10–18 flies.
What rod and reel suit spinning with lures for rainbow trout?
A light to Ultralight, moderate action rod around 6–7 ft with 1000–2500 spinning, or a 5wt fly outfit.
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 rainbow trout?
Water 50–65°F (10–18°C), overcast skies, during an insect hatch.