Topwater Bass Fishing Lures: The Ultimate Guide for Explosive Surface Strikes
Wiki Article
When you are looking for bass fishing, few experiences rival the heart-pounding excitement of the topwater strike. Watching a largemouth explode with a lure dancing across the surface is the thing that keeps many anglers addicted to the sport. But selecting the most appropriate topwater lure can make all the difference from a quiet morning as well as a trophy catch. Here’s a breakdown of the topwater fishing lures and how to use them effectively.
1. Poppers: Classic Surface Disturbers
Best for: Calm water and precise casting around cover.
Top choices: Rebel Pop-R, Heddon Pop’n Image, Strike King KVD Splash.
Poppers are small, cupped-faced lures that create a distinct “pop” sound when jerked. The noise and splash imitate a struggling baitfish or insect, triggering aggressive strikes from nearby bass. Use short, sharp twitches with pauses among, especially during day or late evening when bass are feeding near the surface.
2. Walking Baits: “Walk-the-Dog” Masters
Best for: Open water and active fish.
Top choices: Heddon Zara Spook, Rapala Skitter Walk, Lucky Craft Gunfish.
These cigar-shaped lures are equipped for the famous “walk-the-dog” motion — a rhythmic side-to-side glide that mimics injured baitfish. The trick is perhaps all in the wrist: maintain your rod tip down and rehearse steady twitches while retrieving. This lure works exceptionally well over submerged grass beds or near drop-offs.
3. Buzzbaits: The Loud and Flashy Surface Attack
Best for: Covering large areas and murky water.
Top choices: Booyah Buzz, Strike King Buzzbait, Lunker Lure Buzzbait.
Buzzbaits feature spinning blades that churn the top, producing vibration and sound bass can’t resist. They’re perfect for morning hours runs or when you need to provoke reaction strikes. Run them parallel to weed lines or across shallow flats, and turn into ready — strikes might be violent.
4. Frogs: King in the Weeds
Best for: Heavy vegetation and lily pads.
Top choices: Booyah Pad Crasher, LIVETARGET Hollow Body Frog, SPRO Bronzeye Frog.
Frog lures are perfect for fishing in places other lures would snag. Their weedless design lets them glide effortlessly across pads and mats. When a bass strikes, resist the need to set the hook immediately — wait a moment to glance at the weight, then drive the hook home.
5. Prop Baits: Splash and Flash
Best for: Targeting aggressive fish in moderate cover.
Top choices: Smithwick Devil’s Horse, Yo-Zuri 3DB Prop, Rapala X-Rap Prop.
Prop baits have small spinning blades at the front end or back that churn water, creating both visual flash and noise. They shine during post-spawn periods when bass are territorial capable to attack whatever enters their zone.
6. Wakebaits: Subtle Surface Swimmers
Best for: Cooler water and pressured fish.
Top choices: Strike King Wake Shad, Jackall Mikey Jr., 6th Sense Crush Wake.
Wakebaits ride just below the outer lining, leaving a V-shaped wake that resembles a swimming baitfish. They’re subtle yet effective when bass are cautious or feeding nearby the top although not aggressively striking loud lures.
Topwater Fishing Tips for Bigger Bass
Timing matters: Early morning and late evening are prime topwater windows.
Match the hatch: Choose lure size and color that mimic local baitfish.
Steady patience: Sometimes the very best retrieve is really a slow, teasing one with long pauses.
Use the proper gear: Medium-heavy rods and braided line help you create solid hooksets and work lures efficiently.
Topwater bass fishing is approximately more than just catching fish — it’s in regards to the thrill, the anticipation, as well as the explosion that follows. Whether you’re walking a Zara Spook across open water or skipping a frog through thick pads, each lure brings an exceptional surface action that could trigger unforgettable strikes.
So the very next time you hit the river, tie on a topwater lure and make preparations — the bite you’ve been expecting might just happen right on the surface.