History

The Rooster Tail, created by Worden’s, is a legendary spinner lure that has been a staple in the fishing community since the 1950s. It was designed by Howard Worden as a versatile and effective lure for targeting a variety of game fish. Over the years, the Rooster Tail has gained a reputation for its reliability and effectiveness, making it a favorite among both amateur and professional anglers.

Company Profile

Worden’s is a renowned name in the fishing industry, known for its innovative and high-quality fishing lures. The company has a rich history of crafting lures that are both practical and effective, with the Rooster Tail being one of their most iconic creations. Worden’s commitment to excellence and understanding of angler needs has kept them at the forefront of the fishing world for decades.

Sizes

The Rooster Tail comes in a range of sizes to cater to different fishing conditions and target species:

  • 1/32 oz: Ideal for small fish like panfish and trout in streams.
  • 1/16 oz – 1/8 oz: Great for medium-sized trout and bass in rivers and lakes.
  • 1/4 oz – 3/8 oz: Suitable for larger fish like bass, walleye, and northern pike.

Colors

This lure is available in a wide variety of colors and patterns, including:

  • Bright Colors: Such as chartreuse and fluorescent red for murky waters.
  • Natural Colors: Like brown trout or rainbow trout for clear waters.
  • Metallic Shades: Including silver and gold for a broad range of conditions.
  • Special Patterns: Like firetiger or frog patterns for specific fishing strategies.

Best Uses

The Rooster Tail is highly versatile and can be used in various environments:

  • Freshwater Fishing: Excellent for species like trout, bass, and walleye.
  • Stream and River Fishing: Effective in both fast and slow-moving waters.
  • Lake Fishing: Ideal for targeting fish in both shallow and deep areas.

Best Techniques

To maximize the effectiveness of the Rooster Tail, consider these techniques:

  • Steady Retrieve: Maintain a constant speed to keep the blade spinning and attractive.
  • Varying Speeds: Changing the pace can trigger strikes from curious or hesitant fish.
  • Lift-and-Drop: Mimic a wounded baitfish by lifting the rod tip and letting the lure sink.
  • Cast and Retrieve: Cast out and retrieve across different depths to locate fish.

The Worden’s Rooster Tail has stood the test of time as a reliable and effective lure for a wide range of fishing scenarios. Its versatility and ease of use make it a must-have in any angler’s tackle box.

Using the Worden’s Rooster Tail lure effectively for trout fishing involves a combination of selecting the right lure attributes and employing specific techniques that appeal to trout. Here are some key tips to help you maximize your success with this lure:

1. Select the Appropriate Size and Color

  • Size: For trout, typically smaller sizes like 1/16 oz or 1/8 oz are most effective. These sizes are not too intimidating for trout and mimic the size of their natural prey.
  • Color: Choose colors based on water clarity and light conditions. In clear water, use natural or subtle colors like browns or olives. In murky water, opt for brighter colors or those with high visibility like chartreuse or white.

2. Ideal Casting Techniques

  • Cast Near Structures: Trout often hide near underwater structures, edges of streams, or areas with overhanging trees. Casting near these spots can be more productive.
  • Upstream Casting: In streams and rivers, cast upstream and allow the lure to move downstream with the current, retrieving it just enough to keep the blade spinning.

3. Vary Your Retrieval Speed

  • Start with a moderate, steady retrieve to keep the blade spinning and the lure moving attractively.
  • Experiment with different retrieval speeds. Sometimes a quicker retrieve can entice a chase, while other times, a slower, more deliberate retrieve might be more appealing to trout.

4. Use the Current to Your Advantage

  • In flowing waters, let the lure drift naturally with the current, occasionally twitching the rod tip to add movement.
  • In still waters, such as lakes or ponds, cast out and retrieve the lure at varying depths and speeds.

5. Jigging Motion

  • Occasionally, add a jigging motion by lifting and dropping the rod tip during retrieval. This can make the lure behave erratically, like an injured fish, which is often irresistible to trout.

6. Pay Attention to Weather and Time

  • Trout can be more active during overcast days and less so in bright sunlight. Early morning and late evening are often prime times for trout fishing.

7. Watch for Subtle Bites

  • Trout bites can sometimes be gentle. Stay alert and watch your line for any unusual movements or twitches.

8. Approach with Stealth

  • Trout are easily spooked. Approach your fishing spot quietly and avoid casting shadows on the water.

9. Practice Responsible Fishing

  • If you’re practicing catch and release, handle the trout gently and release them back into the water promptly.

By following these tips and being patient, you’ll enhance your chances of catching trout with the Worden’s Rooster Tail lure. Remember, fishing is as much about the experience and learning as it is about the catch, so enjoy your time by the water!