Landing a feisty salmon in a rushing river is a thrill. But using the wrong lure can turn that dream into a frustrating day of casting and reeling in nothing. It’s happened to me more times than I care to admit. Finding the right lure that can withstand the current, attract the fish, and ultimately help you reel in that trophy salmon is crucial. This guide will help you choose the perfect lure for your next river adventure.
Here’s a quick look at the lures we’ll be covering:
- Kastmaster AC14-CGS001 Lure: Excellent for casting distance and attracting salmon with its flashy action.
- Blue Fox Classic Vibrax: A versatile spinner that creates vibration and flash to entice salmon.
- Worden’s Rooster Tail Spinner: A classic lure known for its pulsating action and effectiveness in various conditions.
- Luhr-Jensen Kwikfish K15: A popular plug that swims with an erratic action, triggering strikes from aggressive salmon.
- Brad’s Super Bait Cut Plug: Designed to hold scent and create a natural presentation that salmon can’t resist.
Top 5 Best Salmon Lures For Rivers
1. Kastmaster AC14-CGS001 Lure
The Kastmaster is a simple yet incredibly effective lure. Its dense metal construction allows for long casts, perfect for covering a lot of water in a river. The lure’s erratic wobble and bright finish make it highly visible to salmon.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent casting distance
- ✅ Durable construction
- ✅ Highly reflective finish attracts salmon
Cons:
- ❌ Can be prone to snagging on the bottom
- ❌ Limited color options compared to other lures
- ❌ May not be as effective in murky water
Verdict: A great all-around lure for anglers who need to cast far and cover a lot of water. Best suited for clear to moderately clear rivers.
2. Blue Fox Classic Vibrax
The Blue Fox Vibrax is a spinner known for its quality construction and fish-attracting vibration. The patented two-part body creates a sonic vibration that triggers strikes, even in low-visibility conditions. I remember using this lure on the Deschutes River and landing a beautiful Chinook on my first cast!
Pros:
- ✅ Creates strong vibration and flash
- ✅ High-quality construction
- ✅ Effective in various water conditions
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit pricey compared to other spinners
- ❌ The paint can chip off after heavy use
- ❌ May not be ideal for very fast-moving water
Verdict: A reliable spinner that’s worth the investment for serious salmon anglers. It’s versatile enough to use in a variety of river conditions.
3. Worden’s Rooster Tail Spinner
The Rooster Tail is a legendary lure that has been catching fish for decades. Its pulsating action and variety of colors make it irresistible to salmon. It’s a confidence lure for many anglers, including myself.
Pros:
- ✅ Classic and proven design
- ✅ Wide variety of colors and sizes
- ✅ Effective in both clear and stained water
Cons:
- ❌ The tail can sometimes get tangled
- ❌ Not as durable as some other spinners
- ❌ Can be difficult to control the depth in fast currents
Verdict: A must-have lure for any salmon angler. Its versatility and proven track record make it a reliable choice in a wide range of situations.
4. Luhr-Jensen Kwikfish K15
The Kwikfish is a popular plug designed to swim with an erratic, enticing action. Its wide wobble mimics a wounded baitfish, triggering aggressive strikes from salmon. This lure is perfect for back-trolling or casting in slower-moving sections of the river.
Pros:
- ✅ Erratic swimming action triggers strikes
- ✅ Durable construction
- ✅ Available in a variety of colors and sizes
Cons:
- ❌ Requires proper tuning to achieve the desired action
- ❌ Can be difficult to use in very fast currents
- ❌ More expensive than some other lure options
Verdict: A great choice for anglers who want a plug that will get noticed. Best used in slower-moving water or when back-trolling.
5. Brad’s Super Bait Cut Plug
Brad’s Super Bait Cut Plug is specifically designed for salmon fishing. Its unique design allows you to insert your favorite scent, creating a powerful attractant. The cut plug design also creates a natural swimming action that mimics a wounded baitfish, making it irresistible to salmon.
Pros:
- ✅ Holds scent effectively
- ✅ Creates a natural swimming action
- ✅ Durable construction
Cons:
- ❌ Requires scent to be most effective
- ❌ Can be a bit messy to use with scent
- ❌ More expensive than some other plug options
Verdict: An excellent choice for anglers who want to use scent to their advantage. Best used in areas where salmon are holding or migrating.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right salmon lure for rivers can feel overwhelming, but here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Water Clarity: In clear water, bright and flashy lures like the Kastmaster or Rooster Tail can be very effective. In murky water, lures that create vibration and sound, such as the Blue Fox Vibrax, are a better choice.
- Current Speed: In fast-moving water, heavier lures or plugs like the Kwikfish that can maintain their position are essential. In slower currents, lighter spinners or cut plugs can be more effective.
- Salmon Species: Different salmon species may prefer different types of lures. Chinook salmon, for example, are often attracted to larger plugs and spoons, while Coho salmon may prefer smaller spinners and spoons.
- Scent: Consider using lures that can hold scent, such as Brad’s Super Bait Cut Plug, especially in areas where salmon are heavily pressured or the water is murky.
- Size and Weight: Match the size and weight of your lure to the size of the salmon you’re targeting and the depth of the water you’re fishing.
- Color: Experiment with different colors to see what works best in your local waters. Popular colors for salmon include silver, gold, chartreuse, and pink.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different lures and techniques to find what works best for you. Salmon fishing is a challenging but rewarding sport, and the right lure can make all the difference.
FAQs
Q: What size lure should I use for salmon in rivers?
A: It depends on the river and the size of the salmon you’re targeting. Generally, lures in the 3- to 6-inch range are a good starting point. Adjust the size based on the water conditions and the size of the fish.
Q: What colors are best for salmon lures in rivers?
A: Popular colors include silver, gold, chartreuse, pink, and red. Experiment to see what works best in your local waters and conditions.
Q: How do I prevent my lure from snagging on the bottom?
A: Use lures that are designed to run at a specific depth, and adjust your retrieve speed to keep the lure off the bottom. You can also try using a weedless hook or a lure retriever.
Q: Can I use the same lures for different salmon species?
A: While some lures are versatile, different salmon species may have preferences. Research which lures are most effective for the specific species you’re targeting.
Q: How important is scent when salmon fishing in rivers?
A: Scent can be very important, especially in murky water or when salmon are heavily pressured. Consider using lures that can hold scent, or adding scent to your lures.
Conclusion
Choosing the right salmon lure for rivers can significantly increase your chances of success. From the long-casting Kastmaster to the scent-holding Brad’s Super Bait Cut Plug, each lure offers unique advantages in different situations. Consider water clarity, current speed, and the specific salmon species you’re targeting when making your choice. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you, and get ready to experience the thrill of landing a river salmon!
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