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 your topwater strike. Watching a largemouth explode over a lure dancing throughout the surface 's what keeps many anglers enslaved by the sport. But choosing the right topwater lure can make all the difference between a quiet morning and a trophy catch. Here’s a breakdown of the bass topwater bait and ways 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 among, especially during morning or late evening when bass are feeding close to 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 in the wrist: keep the rod tip down and use 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 counter, producing vibration and sound bass can’t resist. They’re perfect for morning runs or when you need to provoke reaction strikes. Run them parallel to weed lines or across shallow flats, and become ready — strikes can 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 best 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 split second to feel 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 capable to attack something that 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 top, leaving a V-shaped wake that resembles a swimming baitfish. They’re subtle yet effective when bass are cautious or feeding near the top and 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 most effective retrieve is really a slow, teasing one with long pauses.

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

Topwater bass fishing is approximately more than just catching fish — it’s concerning the thrill, the anticipation, and 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 may trigger unforgettable strikes.

So next time you hit the river, tie over a topwater lure and get ready — the bite you’ve been expecting might just happen right on the outer lining.