Topwater Bass Fishing Lures: The Ultimate Guide for Explosive Surface Strikes

Wiki Article

When it comes to bass fishing, few experiences rival the heart-pounding excitement of the topwater strike. Watching a largemouth explode on the lure dancing across the surface 's what keeps many anglers dependent on the sport. But selecting the best topwater lure could make all the difference between a quiet morning as well as a trophy catch. Here’s a failure of the plastic worms for bass fishing 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 creates 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 in between, especially during morning 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 prepared for the famous “walk-the-dog” motion — a rhythmic side-to-side glide that mimics injured baitfish. The trick is all in the wrist: maintain your rod tip down and employ steady twitches while retrieving. This lure works exceptionally approximately 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 day runs or when you wish to provoke reaction strikes. Run them parallel to weed lines or across shallow flats, and turn into ready — strikes can be violent.

4. Frogs: King with the Weeds

Best for: Heavy vegetation and lily pads.
Top choices: Booyah Pad Crasher, LIVETARGET Hollow Body Frog, SPRO Bronzeye Frog.

Frog lures are ideal 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 impulse to set the hook immediately — wait a split second 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 in the front or back that churn water, creating both visual flash and noise. They shine during post-spawn periods when bass are territorial and ready 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 surface, leaving a V-shaped wake that resembles a swimming baitfish. They’re subtle yet effective when bass are cautious or feeding close to the top however, 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 top retrieve is really a slow, teasing one with long pauses.

Use the proper gear: Medium-heavy rods and braided line assist you in making solid hooksets and work lures efficiently.

Topwater bass fishing is about more than just catching fish — it’s concerning 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 can trigger unforgettable strikes.

So the next time you hit the lake, tie over a topwater lure and make preparations — the bite you’ve been waiting for might just happen right on the top.