Anatomy of Trout spinner

Anatomy of a Trout Spinner

The spinner’s design is simple. It consists of a metallic blade that rotates around a metal shaft as a result of catching water as it is retrieved; however, the speed of retrieval differs with each type of spinner. On top of retrieve speed, the blade style, size, material, lure weight and other features will impact how effectively the blade spins. When a spinner is not fished at the correct speed, it drags through the water without any action and is rendered useless. 

Primarily, trout are attracted to the reflective flash and gentle vibrations of the blade as it spins, catching sunlight and imitating lively forage.

Types of Spinner Blades 

Across the many brands of trout spinners today, there are three main blade styles that influence sink rate and retrieve speed in order to generate the desired action from the lure.  

Colorado Blade: These stout, rounded blades will excel in shallow environments where visibility is decent, but may be hampered by muddy water or vegetation, forcing trout to rely more on vibration than sight to track a lure. The slightly concave blade along with a greater spinning angle from the shaft creates more drag, allowing the lure to sink slowly and produce substantial vibrations as it is retrieved. Because of its ability to catch more water, spinners with Colorado blades can be retrieved at slightly slower speeds than spinners with willow or Indiana blades. 

Indiana Blade: Almost identical in appearance to the Colorado blade, Indiana blades are not as wide and spin closer to the shaft. This creates less drag so the lure will sink more quickly than one with a Colorado blade, making it most effective in transition areas like ledges and drop-offs. However, because of its tighter spinning radius, the Indiana blade generates less-pronounced thudding sounds when compared to its stumpy cousin, the Colorado blade, so keep a close eye on water clarity to account for visibility and vibration. 

Willow Blade: These blades are often seen on large wire “spinnerbaits” used for bass fishing. They are long, narrow and have a realistic profile that more closely resembles the body of a small baitfish. The shape allows it to sink with ease and generate less drag than Colorado or Indiana blades, which makes it ideal for use in clear, deep water environments like kettle ponds. Less drag means it catches less water than the Colorado blade, which results in more subtle, acute vibrations and a quicker retrieve needed to impart the desired spinning action.