Best Trout Spoons: 5 Picks for Streams, Rivers, and Lakes
Spoons are some of the simplest and most effective trout lures. A curved piece of metal wobbles and flashes like...
By James
Updated November 10, 2026
Spoons are some of the simplest and most effective trout lures. A curved piece of metal wobbles and flashes like a small baitfish, casts a long way on light line, and works in streams, rivers, and lakes. Most trout spoons weigh between 1/16 and 1/4 oz. Heavier spoons are for big water, deep lake trout, and trolling.
This guide compares five spoons and spoon sets from Acme, Thomas, Mepps, and Dardevle. We compared each listing’s weight, finish, hooks, and recommended line and use. For the rod to cast them, see our ultralight rod guide and our trout rod and reel combos; for more lures, the spoons and spinners section.
Our Top Picks
| Best for | Product | FH Score About FH ScoreThe FH Score is our editorial rating from 0 to 10, based on published specs, materials, warranty and value. It is not based on Amazon ratings and is never influenced by commissions. Learn more › | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best overall |
Acme Kastmaster Trout Pack
|
8.4/10 | Check Price |
| Best for ultralight |
Acme Little Cleo (1/16 oz)
|
8.1/10 | Check Price |
| Best for rivers |
Thomas Buoyant Spoon (1/4 oz Copper)
|
7.6/10 | Check Price |
| Best natural finish | Mepps Syclops Spoon (Rainbow Trout) | 7.4/10 | Check Price |
| Best for big water |
Dardevle Dardevlet (3/4 oz)
|
7.2/10 | Check Price |
The Picks in Detail
Acme Kastmaster Trout Pack
Why it made the list: This pack gives you three proven Acme spoon shapes at once: the Kastmaster, a dense spoon that casts far and works fast water; the Little Cleo, a classic wobbler; and the Phoebe, a slim spoon with a tight action. All come rigged with split rings and treble hooks.
Key specs: includes Kastmaster, Little Cleo, and Phoebe spoons; pre-rigged with split ring and treble hook; painted or metal finishes; fresh and salt water.
Skip it if: you already know your favorite spoon. Buy that one in several colors instead.
Pros
- Three spoon styles in one pack
- Ready to tie on
- Works in streams and lakes
Cons
- Weights per spoon not stated on the listing
- Treble hooks may need pinching or swapping where barbless rules apply
Acme Little Cleo (1/16 oz)
Why it made the list: A 1/16 oz spoon is ideal for small streams, ponds, and ultralight gear. Acme lists this size for ultralight spinning rods and even fly rods, with 2 to 4 lb line, for trout and panfish.
Key specs: 1/16 oz; nickel and neon blue finish (this listing); for ultralight spinning or fly rods; 2 to 4 lb line; trout and panfish.
Skip it if: you fish big rivers or lakes. Go to 1/8 to 1/4 oz.
Pros
- Tiny size for small water
- Classic wobbling shape
- Low cost
Cons
- Too light for wind or deep water
- Small hook for bigger trout
Thomas Buoyant Spoon (1/4 oz Copper)
Why it made the list: The Buoyant is a long-standing trout and steelhead spoon. This 1/4 oz copper version has enough weight to cast across a river and swing through current, and copper is a popular color in stained water and low light.
Key specs: 1/4 oz; copper finish. The listing gives few other details.
Skip it if: you fish tiny creeks. A 1/16 oz spoon is easier to control.
Pros
- Good casting weight for rivers
- Classic trout spoon
- Copper finish for low light
Cons
- Few details on the listing
- Only one weight and color in this listing
Mepps Syclops Spoon (Rainbow Trout)
Why it made the list: Mepps is best known for spinners, and the Syclops is its spoon. This version has a rainbow trout pattern, a natural look for waters where big trout and other predators feed on small trout, and a plain treble hook.
Key specs: spoon; rainbow trout finish; plain treble hook. Size options vary on the listing.
Skip it if: you want a high-visibility color for stained water. Choose copper, gold, or bright painted spoons.
Pros
- Natural baitfish pattern
- From a well-known lure maker
- Several sizes
Cons
- Few details on the listing
- Check weight before ordering
Dardevle Dardevlet (3/4 oz)
Why it made the list: The Dardevle is a classic red and white spoon made in the USA. At 3/4 oz, this Dardevlet is heavy for stream trout but well suited to lake trout, big lakes, and trolling, and it also catches pike, walleye, and bass. It can be cast or trolled.
Key specs: 3/4 oz; nickel back; red and white; wiggling, wobbling action; cast or trolled; made in USA.
Skip it if: you fish small streams on ultralight gear. Use a 1/16 to 1/8 oz spoon.
Pros
- Casts far on big water
- Works for many species
- Made in USA
Cons
- Too heavy for most stream trout
- Needs a medium rod
Trout Spoons Compared
| Spoon | Weight | Finish | Best water | Hook |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acme Kastmaster Trout Pack | Not stated | Painted or metal | Streams and lakes | Treble |
| Acme Little Cleo | 1/16 oz | Nickel and neon blue | Small streams, ponds | Not stated |
| Thomas Buoyant | 1/4 oz | Copper | Rivers | Not stated |
| Mepps Syclops | Varies | Rainbow trout | Lakes and rivers | Plain treble |
| Dardevle Dardevlet | 3/4 oz | Red and white | Big lakes, trolling | Not stated |
How We Picked
We did not fish these spoons for this guide. We researched each one and compared the information on the makers’ listings. Our criteria:
- Weight for different trout waters.
- Proven shapes with a long track record.
- Finish options for clear and stained water.
- Value.
The FH Score in each product box is our editorial rating, built from five weighted criteria: performance for the job, build quality, versatility, warranty and value. Lures carry no warranty, so every spoon gets the same neutral warranty score. It is not based on Amazon ratings. See how it works on our How We Review page.
How to Fish Spoons for Trout
Pick the weight
About 1/16 to 1/8 oz for small streams and ponds, 1/8 to 1/4 oz for rivers and lakes, and heavier for deep water, wind, and trolling.
Retrieve
Cast across or slightly upstream, let the spoon sink, then reel just fast enough to make it wobble. Vary the speed and add short pauses so it flutters.
Color
Silver and gold in clear water and sun. Copper, brass, and painted colors in stained water and low light.
Line twist
Spoons can twist line. A small swivel a foot or two above the spoon helps.
Regulations
Some trout waters require single, barbless hooks or ban treble hooks. Check your state’s rules before fishing.
Related Guides
- How to Use an Ultralight Fishing Rod
- Best Trout Rod and Reel Combos
- Best White Bass Lures
- What Is a Fishing Swivel? Types, Uses, and When to Skip One
FAQ
What size spoon is best for trout?
Around 1/8 oz is a good all-around size for stream and lake trout.
Spoons or spinners for trout?
Both work. Spoons cast farther and work deeper; spinners give more vibration at slow speeds.
What line should I use with trout spoons?
Light line, usually 4 to 6 lb, helps light spoons cast and wobble naturally.
Final Thoughts
The Acme Kastmaster Trout Pack is our top pick because it covers three proven spoon styles at once. Choose the Little Cleo 1/16 oz for ultralight fishing, the Thomas Buoyant for rivers, the Mepps Syclops for a natural trout finish, and the Dardevlet for lake trout and big water.
About the author
James writes reviews and buying guides for Fishing Hacking, covering rods, reels, line, lures, and the gear anglers rely on. His work focuses on clear criteria, balanced pros and cons, and practical advice to help readers choose equipment that fits how and where they fish.