Topwater Lure Tactics

Why Topwater Fishing?

Topwater fishing involves using lures that float on or just below the water's surface, creating commotion that attracts predatory fish. This technique not only produces exciting visual strikes but can also be highly effective when fish are actively feeding near the surface.

Pros of Topwater Fishing

• Extremely exciting and visual method of fishing
• Can be highly effective for aggressive fish
• Covers water quickly to locate active fish
• Works well in various water conditions and depths

Cons of Topwater Fishing

• Can be less effective during certain weather conditions or times of day
• Requires proper timing on hooksets to avoid missed fish
• May not work as well in extremely clear or pressured waters

Essential Gear for Topwater Fishing

1. Rod and Reel

A 6'6" to 7'2" medium to medium-heavy action rod paired with a baitcasting or spinning reel is ideal for most topwater applications.

2. Line

15-20 lb monofilament or braided line works well for most situations.

3. Lures

A variety of topwater lures including poppers, walking baits, prop baits, and buzzbaits.

Top Topwater Lures for 2024

• Heddon Zara Spook: Classic walk-the-dog action
• Rebel Pop-R: Versatile popper for multiple species
• Whopper Plopper: Unique plopping sound and action
• Buzzbait: Great for covering water quickly
• Hollow-bodied Frog: Excellent for fishing heavy cover

Mastering Topwater Techniques

1. Walk-the-Dog

Used with stick baits like the Zara Spook. Twitch the rod tip rhythmically to create a side-to-side motion.

2. Popping

Short, sharp rod twitches to make poppers "spit" water and create commotion.

3. Buzzing

Steady retrieve with buzzbaits to create a continuous surface disturbance.

4. Frogging

Work hollow-bodied frogs across lily pads or other vegetation with short hops or a walking action.

Species-Specific Topwater Strategies

Largemouth Bass

Target areas near cover like lily pads, fallen trees, or dock edges. Early morning and late evening are prime times.

Smallmouth Bass

Focus on rocky areas, points, and current breaks. Walking baits and poppers are particularly effective.

Northern Pike

Use larger, noisier baits like buzzbaits or prop baits around weed edges and in open water.

Musky

Employ large topwater lures like the Top Raider or Whopper Plopper 190 around weed beds and over submerged structure.

Real Angler Experiences

Tom R., a bass fishing enthusiast from Florida, shares: "Nothing beats the excitement of a big bass blowing up on a topwater lure. Last summer, I caught my personal best 9-pounder on a Whopper Plopper at dawn."

Sarah K., a multi-species angler from Minnesota, notes: "I've had incredible success using topwater lures for smallmouth bass on our northern lakes. The key is to be patient and let the fish commit before setting the hook."

Seasonal Considerations

While topwater can be effective year-round in some regions, it truly shines in certain seasons:

• Spring: As water warms, focus on shallow spawning areas
• Summer: Prime time for topwater, especially early morning and late evening
• Fall: Target areas where baitfish are schooling near the surface
• Winter: In warmer climates, midday topwater action can still produce

Pro Tips for Topwater Success

1. Be patient after a missed strike. Often, the fish will come back for another attempt.
2. Vary your retrieve speed and cadence to trigger strikes.
3. Pay attention to the sound your lure makes. Sometimes a subtle "plop" is more effective than a loud splash.
4. When a fish strikes, resist the urge to set the hook immediately. Wait until you feel the weight of the fish before setting.
5. Always have a follow-up bait ready, like a soft plastic, to throw to fish that miss your topwater lure.