How to Make Spoons for Fishing for Crappie: A Complete Guide


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Are you looking to catch more crappie on your next fishing trip? Look no further than making your own fishing spoons! Not only is it a fun and rewarding project, but it can also improve your chances of landing that trophy fish. In this complete guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making fishing spoons for crappie.

First, we’ll explain what fishing spoons are and why they’re an effective bait for crappie. Then, we’ll dive into the benefits of making your own fishing spoons, including cost savings and the ability to customize your bait to your specific needs. We’ll also cover the materials you’ll need and provide step-by-step instructions for creating your own fishing spoons.

Finally, we’ll share tips and tricks for perfecting your spoon-making technique and using homemade spoons to catch more crappie. So, whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, this guide has everything you need to know about making your own fishing spoons for crappie fishing. Keep reading to become a pro at catching crappie!

What are fishing spoons?

Fishing spoons are one of the most popular lures used in fishing for a variety of species, including crappie. They are made to resemble small baitfish, with a concave, spoon-like shape that creates a unique wobbling action when retrieved through the water. This action, along with the flash of the spoon’s metallic finish, can trigger a predatory instinct in fish, making them more likely to strike.

Historically, fishing spoons were made of metal, but today’s options include spoons made of plastic, wood, and other materials. Some spoons even incorporate additional features, such as swivels, rattles, or skirts, to further entice fish. Regardless of the material or added features, fishing spoons are a versatile and effective tool for catching fish, and they are especially useful for targeting crappie in both freshwater and saltwater environments.

The best fishing spoons for crappie are typically smaller in size, ranging from 1/32 to 1/8 ounces, and are often painted or plated in bright, flashy colors like silver, gold, or chartreuse. These colors mimic the small baitfish that crappie love to feed on, and the small size of the spoon makes it easy for crappie to swallow the bait whole, leading to more hookups.

Overall, fishing spoons are a time-tested, versatile lure that every angler should have in their tackle box. Whether you are an experienced angler or just starting out, using fishing spoons can be a fun and effective way to catch a variety of fish species, including crappie.

Introduction to Fishing Spoons

  1. Fishing spoons are one of the most popular lures used for catching fish, particularly in freshwater environments. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, and are known for their ability to mimic the movement of small baitfish in the water.

  2. These lures are called spoons because they resemble the shape of a spoon. They have a concave, curved shape on one side, and a flat, reflective surface on the other. When they are moved through the water, they wobble and flash, attracting fish to the lure.

  3. Fishing spoons are often used for crappie fishing because crappie are known to be attracted to shiny objects. They can be fished in a variety of ways, including casting and retrieving, jigging, or trolling behind a boat.

If you’re new to fishing or looking to try out a new type of lure, fishing spoons are a great option to consider. In the following sections, we’ll dive deeper into what makes fishing spoons effective, how to make your own, and tips for using them effectively on your next fishing trip.

Types of Fishing Spoons

There are several types of fishing spoons available in the market. The most common types include casting spoons, trolling spoons, and jigging spoons.

Casting spoons are designed to be casted from a rod and reel. These spoons are usually heavy and are ideal for catching fish in freshwater and saltwater environments.

  • Trolling spoons are designed to be pulled behind a moving boat. These spoons are available in various sizes and colors and are suitable for catching fish in deep waters.
  • Jigging spoons are perfect for vertical jigging. These spoons are usually lighter and are ideal for fishing in shallow waters.

It’s essential to choose the right type of fishing spoon for your fishing trip. The type of spoon you choose will depend on the water conditions and the type of fish you’re targeting.

Why make your own fishing spoons?

Customization: Making your own fishing spoons allows you to customize the shape, size, and color to suit your specific fishing needs. This can give you a competitive edge over other anglers.

Creativity: Designing and crafting your own fishing spoons is a fun and creative activity that can bring a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment. You can experiment with different materials and techniques to make unique and personalized fishing spoons.

Cost-effective: Making your own fishing spoons can be more cost-effective in the long run than buying them from a store. You can use affordable materials and create multiple spoons with the same amount of money you would spend on just one store-bought spoon.

Self-sufficiency: Knowing how to make your own fishing spoons can also make you more self-sufficient as an angler. If you lose or damage a spoon while fishing, you can quickly make a replacement instead of having to purchase a new one.

Customization

One of the main reasons to make your own fishing spoons is customization. With homemade spoons, you can experiment with different colors, patterns, and sizes to suit your specific needs. Customization also allows you to make spoons that match the color of the baitfish in your local waters, which can help attract more crappie.

Furthermore, making your own fishing spoons allows you to add unique features, such as a specific weight or shape, that might not be available in store-bought spoons. Customization gives you complete control over the design of your spoon, making it easier to target crappie in specific water conditions or times of day.

Customizing your own fishing spoons is also a fun way to get creative and express yourself. You can experiment with different materials and designs to make a spoon that truly reflects your personality and style. With customization, you’re not just making a functional tool for fishing; you’re also making a unique piece of art.

Overall, making your own fishing spoons gives you the freedom to create a lure that meets your exact needs and preferences. By experimenting with different materials, colors, and designs, you can make a spoon that not only catches crappie but also reflects your personality and style. Customization is one of the many benefits of making your own fishing spoons.

Creative Outlet

One of the great benefits of making your own fishing spoons is that it can be a creative outlet. Creating unique and personalized spoons is a great way to express your creativity and add a personal touch to your fishing gear.

When you make your own fishing spoons, you have the opportunity to experiment with different shapes, colors, and designs. You can use a variety of materials and techniques to make your spoons stand out and catch the attention of the fish.

Whether you want to create spoons with intricate designs or simple patterns, making your own fishing spoons can be a fun and rewarding activity that allows you to showcase your artistic skills.

Additionally, making your own fishing spoons can be a great way to involve your family and friends in your fishing hobby. You can work together to create unique and personalized spoons that everyone can use and enjoy.

Cost-Effective

One of the biggest advantages of making your own fishing spoons is that it is cost-effective. Commercially available fishing spoons can be quite expensive, and you may need to replace them frequently. By making your own fishing spoons, you can save a lot of money in the long run.

Additionally, you can use materials that are readily available and affordable, such as scrap metal or even old silverware. You can also make use of tools you already have at home, like pliers and a metal file.

Furthermore, making your own fishing spoons allows you to experiment with different shapes, sizes, and colors without breaking the bank. You can create custom designs that work best for the type of fish you are targeting or the conditions of your local fishing spot.

In short, making your own fishing spoons can be a great way to save money while still enjoying the thrill of the catch. Plus, the sense of satisfaction that comes with catching fish using something you made yourself is priceless.

What are the benefits of using homemade fishing spoons for crappie fishing?

Customization: When you make your own fishing spoons, you have the ability to customize them to your liking. You can choose the color, shape, and size of the spoon to match the conditions you are fishing in.

Cost-effective: Making your own fishing spoons can be a cost-effective alternative to buying them in-store. You can use materials that are readily available or repurpose old fishing lures to create your own spoons at a fraction of the cost.

Increased confidence: Using fishing spoons that you have made yourself can increase your confidence on the water. You know exactly how they were made and can trust their quality and effectiveness.

Satisfaction: Making your own fishing spoons can be a rewarding experience. It allows you to express your creativity and gives you a sense of satisfaction when you catch fish using something that you made with your own hands.

Improved Catch Rates

Using homemade fishing spoons for crappie fishing can lead to improved catch rates compared to using store-bought lures. This is because homemade lures can be customized to match the specific prey that crappie feed on in your local waterways.

By replicating the natural baitfish found in your area, you increase your chances of catching crappie. Additionally, you can adjust the weight and size of your homemade spoons to match the depth and current of your fishing spot.

Homemade fishing spoons can also be made with high-quality materials that are more durable than store-bought lures, making them less likely to break or wear down quickly, resulting in less lost fish.

What materials do you need to make your own fishing spoons?

If you’re interested in making your own fishing spoons, there are a few materials you’ll need. First and foremost, you’ll need a spoon blank. These are usually made from brass, copper, or stainless steel and can be purchased online or at a fishing supply store.

You’ll also need a few tools, such as pliers, wire cutters, and a Dremel tool for shaping and cutting the spoon blank. Additionally, you’ll need paint and clear coat to give your spoon the desired color and finish.

To attach the hook to your spoon, you’ll need split rings and treble hooks. Some anglers also prefer to use a swivel to help prevent line twist while fishing.

Lastly, you’ll need a vice to hold the spoon blank securely while you work on it. A good quality vice will make the process much easier and give you better results.

Metal Sheet

The first and most important material you need to make your own fishing spoons is a metal sheet. You can use brass, copper, aluminum, or stainless steel sheets to create your spoons. These metal sheets come in a variety of thicknesses, so you’ll want to choose one that is appropriate for your needs. Thinner sheets are more flexible and will create lighter spoons, while thicker sheets are more durable and will create heavier spoons.

Make sure the sheet is free of any blemishes, scratches or imperfections. You can purchase metal sheets at your local craft or hardware store, or online.

When purchasing metal sheets, consider the size of the spoon you want to make. The size of the sheet will determine how many spoons you can create.

Jig Saw

A jig saw is a crucial tool for cutting out the shape of your spoon. You can use it to make intricate cuts with ease. When choosing a jig saw, look for one with a variable speed setting and a blade that is suitable for cutting metal.

Make sure to practice on a scrap piece of metal first to get the hang of using the jig saw. Always wear protective gear like safety goggles and gloves when using a jig saw.

Pliers

Pliers are a versatile tool that can be used to bend and shape the metal spoon into the desired shape. Needle-nose pliers are particularly useful for fine, intricate work.

Using pliers to shape the spoon can be tricky at first, but with practice, it becomes easier to create the curves and bends needed to create a functional fishing spoon. Make sure to wear protective gloves to avoid cuts and scratches.

Choose a good quality set of pliers that are comfortable to hold and have a good grip. This will make the process of shaping the spoon easier and more efficient.

Step-by-step instructions for making your own fishing spoons for crappie fishing

Step 1: Cut out the shape of your spoon from a metal sheet using a jig saw. Make sure to sand down any rough edges or burrs.

Step 2: Using pliers, bend the spoon at the desired angle to create the shape you want.

Step 3: Use a small drill bit to create a hole at the top of the spoon where the fishing line will be attached.

Step 4: Add any necessary finishing touches, such as painting or adding a protective coating, to your homemade fishing spoon.

Creating a Spoon Template

The first step in making your own fishing spoons for crappie fishing is to create a spoon template. This template will help ensure that your spoons are uniform in size and shape.

To create a template, draw the outline of a spoon on a piece of cardboard or paper. Use a ruler to measure the length and width of the spoon. Once you have drawn the outline and measured the spoon, cut out the template using a pair of scissors.

How to fish with homemade spoons for crappie?

If you’ve made your own fishing spoons for crappie, you’re ready to hit the water and start catching some fish! Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your homemade spoons:

Use the Right Equipment: Make sure you have the right gear, including a light or ultralight rod and reel, 4-6 lb test line, and a variety of homemade spoons in different colors and sizes.

Target the Right Areas: Look for areas with cover, such as brush piles or fallen trees, where crappie like to hide. You can also try fishing near drop-offs or ledges where crappie tend to feed.

Vary Your Retrieval: Experiment with different retrieval speeds and techniques, such as a slow and steady retrieve or a stop-and-go retrieve. This can help you determine what works best for the conditions and the fish.

Be Patient: Crappie can be finicky, so it may take some time to find the right combination of bait and presentation. Don’t give up if you’re not catching fish right away.

Practice Catch-and-Release: Crappie are a popular game fish, but they can also be overfished. Consider practicing catch-and-release to help preserve the population for future generations of anglers.

Techniques for Fishing with Spoons

Cast and Retrieve: This is a simple and effective technique that involves casting your spoon and retrieving it at a steady pace. Vary the speed of the retrieve and the depth of your spoon until you find what works best for the crappie in your area.

Jigging: This technique involves making the spoon dance up and down in the water. Drop the spoon to the desired depth, then sharply raise the rod tip to make the spoon jump. Lower the rod tip to let the spoon flutter back down. Repeat the process until you get a bite.

Trolling: This technique is useful when searching for crappie in open water. Use a slow speed and drag the spoon behind the boat. Vary the depth until you find where the crappie are biting.

Vertical Jigging: This technique is best used when fishing in deeper water or near drop-offs. Drop the spoon to the desired depth and then jig it up and down. Keep the spoon in the strike zone as long as possible.

Fluttering: This technique is similar to the cast and retrieve method, but it involves a more erratic motion. Vary the speed of the retrieve and use a quick snap of the wrist to make the spoon flutter through the water, imitating the movement of injured baitfish.

Tips and tricks for making the perfect spoon for crappie fishing

Experiment with different materials: Don’t be afraid to try different types of metal or even plastic to see which material produces the best results.

Play with the shape and size: Don’t be afraid to create spoons in different shapes and sizes to see which ones work best for the fish you’re trying to catch.

Pay attention to the details: Small details, such as the curvature of the spoon or the placement of the hook, can make a big difference in the effectiveness of the spoon.

Test your spoons before fishing: Before taking your homemade spoons out on the water, test them in a pool or lake to make sure they swim properly and attract fish.

Selecting the Right Size and Shape

Choosing the right size and shape of spoon is crucial for crappie fishing. The size of the spoon should be appropriate to the size of the fish you are trying to catch. For smaller crappie, use smaller spoons, while larger crappie will require larger spoons. The shape of the spoon is also important. A slender, elongated spoon is more effective for trolling, while a wider spoon is better for casting and retrieving.

Consider the depth of the water: The depth of the water you will be fishing in will also impact the size and shape of the spoon. Deeper water will require a larger and heavier spoon to reach the desired depth. Similarly, shallower water requires a lighter and smaller spoon.

Frequently Asked Questions

What materials are needed to make spoons for crappie fishing?

To make spoons for crappie fishing, you will need materials such as metal sheets, pliers, a jig saw, a drill press, and a grinder.

What size and shape should the spoons be for crappie fishing?

The size and shape of the spoons can vary depending on the type of crappie you are fishing for, but they should generally be smaller in size with a lightweight design and flashy colors.

What is the process for creating a spoon template?

The process for creating a spoon template involves drawing out the desired shape onto a piece of paper or cardboard, cutting out the shape, tracing it onto the metal sheet, and cutting out the spoon shape using a jig saw.

How can you personalize your homemade fishing spoons?

You can personalize your homemade fishing spoons by painting them with unique colors and designs, adding eyes or other embellishments, or even adding scent to attract crappie.

What are some tips for fishing with homemade spoons for crappie?

Some tips for fishing with homemade spoons for crappie include using a slow and steady retrieve, varying the depth of your lure, and experimenting with different colors and sizes of spoons.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when making spoons for crappie fishing?

Some common mistakes to avoid when making spoons for crappie fishing include using too heavy of materials, creating spoons that are too large or too flashy, and not paying attention to the details of the lure such as the hook placement and balance.

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