Spoons and Tubes: A Match Made in Heaven

hWhen it comes to getting more from your lures’ performance, sometimes a little modification or combination is in order. Tipping a spoon with live bait isn’t necessarily a new concept, but tipping your spoons with a tube bait might be, and doing so is a great way to add extra appeal to your presentation. Today we’ll explore this mash-up and why it works so well.

To modify your spoon with a tube, start by removing the treble hook with split ring pliers. Next, cut the nose from a small tube jig (one to two inches, depending on the hook size). Be sure to match up the size of the tube to the lure and hook. Then, trim the body of the tube so that it's long enough to cover the hook shank, but not the eye of the hook. After adjusting the length, insert the hook eye into the bottom of the tube cavity so the tentacles hang downward. Then, all you have to do is reattach the hook to the lure and you’re all set.

Thinner tubes tend to work better for this modification, because they deliver better tentacle undulation and action compared to tubes made from thicker plastic. You’ll want to be sure to pull apart any tentacles that are stuck together or weren't completely separated by the manufacturer, as well. This will ensure the best possible action and presentation.

This rig also lets you experiment with multi-colored baits, depending on the tube you go with. I’ve had success with pearl, chartreuse, pink, and grey, but experiment with different color patterns to see what fish prefer on a given day. It’s also good to use salted or scented tubes whenever possible, to further appeal to fish. Also, using a dressed hook will improve a bait's visual appeal, as well.

Adding a tube to your spoon is an excellent alternative for live bait tipping and works wonders to trigger strikes thanks to the extra action the tube provides. If you’re looking for that special modification to present that fish have not yet seen, then it just might be what you’ve been waiting for. Give it a try this season!