Capt. Dave H.
Capt. Dave has been a full-time fishing guide in the Lower Laguna Madre for over 15 years.
Speckled Trout are arguably the most popular and sought-after game fish in our coastal estuaries. They can be incredibly aggressive one day and frustratingly finicky the next. However, having a few key lures in your arsenal can dramatically increase your odds of success. Here are the top 5 types of lures that consistently put trout in the boat, from the Upper Laguna Madre to the marshes of Louisiana.
1. The Soft Plastic Paddle Tail
This is the undisputed king of trout lures. A 3-4 inch paddle tail, like a Down South Lure or a Z-Man MinnowZ, rigged on a 1/8oz or 1/4oz jig head can be fished in almost any inshore situation. It perfectly mimics a small mullet or pinfish and its thumping tail is a dinner bell for trout.
2. A Realistic Shrimp Imitator
It's no secret that trout love shrimp. Lures like the D.O.A. Shrimp or a Gulp! Shrimp are incredibly effective, especially when fished under a popping cork. The "popping" or "clacking" sound of the cork simulates the sound of other fish feeding and can draw curious trout in from a surprising distance.
3. The Suspending Twitch Bait
During the colder months, when fish are holding in a specific water depth and are less willing to chase, a suspending twitch bait is lethal. Lures like a MirrOlure MirrOdine or a Corky Fat Boy are legendary for their ability to trigger strikes from big, lethargic trout. The key is the ability to pause the lure and let it hang right in the strike zone, daring a trout to eat it.
4. "Walk-the-Dog" Topwater Plug
For sheer excitement, nothing beats a topwater explosion. A Heddon Super Spook Jr. or a Rapala Skitter Walk worked across a calm flat in the early morning is a recipe for heart-stopping strikes. Remember to keep a steady retrieve and wait to feel the weight of the fish before setting the hook!
5. The Classic Gold or Silver Spoon
Don't overlook the classics. A simple weedless gold spoon is a fantastic tool for searching large areas of seagrass flats, especially on sunny days. It provides a ton of flash and vibration that trout can't ignore, allowing you to cover water quickly and find active fish.