Good question on the hooks for spinners and spoons. I always replace the trebles with Siwash singles (fewer snags, and better holding of fish that are hooked)! On the spoons, I make sure the hook point is UP, which is toward the concave side of the spoon. I use spinners in slower water, as they spin with slower retrieves. Spoons wobble more slowly, so heavier current is just right for them. Not sure color is all that important, but I go with more subtle colors (and smaller sizes) in clearer water. I usually have some color on the lures - usually reds, chartreuse or black, and seem to do best with silver over gold. I just cast quartering upstream and keep just enough tension on the line so I can feel the lure tap the bottom now and then. The bite is usually more obvious than on bait, which I like too. Keep trying, and your confidence will grow as you start hooking the fish.