The serious fluke fisherman has two goals: maximize interactions with keeper-sized and larger fluke, and minimize interactions with throwback fluke and pesky bycatch. One of the best ways to achieve those goals is to super-size the presentation with various rigging accoutrements including, but not limited to, beads, rivet teasers, squid skirts, “spin ‘n glows,” and spoons.
Spoons, though one of the oldest lures, have seen somewhat of a renaissance on the Northeast saltwater scene in recent years due to the popularity of oversized flutter spoons for stripers, and a similarly shaped, albeit smaller version, for fluke.
Unlike most spoons, fluke spoons are not fished on their own as a lure, but are incorporated into a three-way rig. By adding a thin, hammered spoon between the bait and leader, an angler can enhance the rig’s profile, color, and action. At moderate drift speeds, a spoon wobbles seductively, a movement that is telegraphed through the bait, which should be a long strip of squid or baitfish.
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Making and Fishing Fluke Spoon Rigs
This rig is simple to tie. It begins with a three-way swivel, with a 6- to 12-inch dropper to the sinker and a 24- to 30-inch leader to a snap. Be sure to use a snap, and not a snap-swivel, as a swivel will encourage the spoon to spin.
The spoon is clipped onto the snap, and anglers often add a hook (or a hook with a skirt) to the back of the spoon. Given the long strip baits most often fished with these rigs, many anglers use a tandem hook to help with short-biting fish.
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For the leader, use heavy monofilament or fluorocarbon to add some stiffness and reduce tangles. Jigging World makes their pre-tied fluke spoon rigs with 40-pound test, which is a good starting point, though some anglers use 60-pound test.
While scented synthetic baits can be added to the hooks, most anglers stick to long, undulating natural baits for the best presentations. Popular options are whole, 5- to 7-inch squid and 6-inch or longer strips of squid, bluefish, sea robin, or whatever fresh fish you can get.
Before deploying, dip the rig underwater to allow the leader to fan out and ensure the spoon wobbles properly instead of spinning. The flash and wobble of a spoon will attract fluke from a distance, while a spinning rig will turn them off and twist your line.
Fluke spoon rigs work best with a moderate to fast drift speed. Too slow, and the spoon will drag lifelessly along the bottom; too fast, and it’s likely to spin.
Unlike other fluke fishing presentations, with this rig, some scope in the line is a good thing. It allows the leader to fully unfurl and put the spoon to work. Lightly bounce the sinker to maintain bottom contact. When a fluke bites, lean toward it for a few seconds before slowly lifting the rod. When you feel weight, drive the hook home.
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