Correct me if I am wrong here.... If the pen rised fish are held for 15 or so months, wouldn't they be more in the 18-20" range. When Blackmouth hit 2 1/2 years of age, they generally are right at the 22" MARK (4#).

One thing that might help out with the spoons... cut the ring off the back and replace it with a split ring and barrel swivel then put a siwash on. This will help reduce the leverage place on the spoon and hook.

I am assuming your fishing for Silvers.... might want to try targeting fish a little deeper as the little guys tend to hang in the upper 40' or so...

Downriggin'