In France, we particularly know the Aglia from MEPPS. A lure and a French brand bought by the Americans. This lure of simple appearance, sometimes criticized by some who see in this lure a too simple way of fishing is however very technical in many respects. Let's rediscover together the spinning spoon.
What is a spinner?
The spinning spoon is a metal lure consisting of a ballast positioned on a metal axis like a piano wire. On this axis, is positioned a metal paddle which turns around this same axis.
There are many variations of models and sizes, with different ballast shapes and materials, various palettes of shapes...
Let's start with the most commonly used, the spinner on a stirrup with a nail paddle.
Nail palettes on stirrup
The most famous model is the Mepps Aglia. It has a nail type paddle. It is a rather rounded paddle which takes the shape of a nail as its name indicates. The paddle is not directly fixed on the axis, it turns around the axis via a bracket. This clamp will give a maximum of amplitude to the paddle during the rotation of this one on the axis.
This results in visual and vibratory signals. It is thus one of the most inciting lures that exist. This is one of the reasons why it is so effective on active fish or on waterways that are not very well fished. The fish are immediately receptive.
This strong grip in the water requires little force to get the paddle to rotate. It therefore deploys quickly and rotates relatively quickly.
On the other hand, this type of spoon spins a lot on itself which forces the use of a rolling swivel and moreover this lure pulls very hard in the line.
Willow leaf pallets on stirrup
This type of spoon has the same characteristics as the ones seen before, except that the paddle is shaped like a willow leaf. It is a more elongated blade. It is more hydrodynamic and will be used for fishing downstream in strong currents.
Its swimming is me ample, but this spoon slips better in the powerful currents. It goes up less and pulls less in the rod.
In-line pallets
The so-called in-line paddles have a different principle. The drilled vane is directly positioned on the spoon axis.
The most famous is the Italian model of the brand Panther Martins. The principle has been adopted by many brands such as Mepps or Smith and the famous Ar-S, but also by more traditional brands such as Trout essential or Morpho.
This model has the advantage of spinning instantly and fishing very slowly. Its less inciting and more discreet character makes it relevant on all types of rivers, and even on fish often solicited with lures. Moreover, it pulls much less in the line for a greater comfort of use.
