Most who have ventured out to capture the beautiful spotted sea trout and those who have been successful; understand that they have a tenacious appetite. Speckled trout frequently hit with extreme aggression. Unlike with the redfish or snook, you won't have the long, screaming, drag pulling runs, but the initial hit can't be beaten. I always have a hard time stating the "best lures" because it's such a relative question, with a broad spectrum of choices. In all reality, the best lure is the one you feel most confident using. My favorite topwater bait for speckled trout, hands down, is the Zara Spook by Heddon. Introduced in 1939, the legendary company created what we know as the "walk the dog" action.
Fish the lure with a rhythmic jerk of the artificial, leaving a comfortable amount of slack in the line to create the side to side motion. The imitation of an injured baitfish and the agitating sound of high pitched rattles often trigger violent strikes and fantastic acrobatics. Fishing Tampa bay; I prefer the Heddon Zara Spook Lure (Black Shiner, 4 1/2-Inch). I also favor the 3-1/2", ½ oz., Heddon Saltwater Super Spook Jr. Plan a day that consists of an early am high tide with super calm winds, then visit your favorite grass flat. With the above conditions and the lures mentioned, you will quickly find out why I love fishing with the Zara Spooks. If you have a particular trout lure that works best for you, please don't hesitate to share. The only way to find out what works best for you is to get out there and try it. Until next time, tight lines!
