Mastering Topwater Lures for Successful Freshwater Fishing

How to Use Topwater Lures

Topwater fishing is one of the most exciting ways to catch freshwater fish, especially when you see them strike from below the water's surface. There’s nothing quite like the adrenaline rush of seeing a fish explode on the surface as it strikes your lure. Topwater lures are designed to float on the surface and create commotion that attracts fish from below, triggering aggressive strikes. In this guide, we’ll explore the best topwater lures, techniques, and strategies to help you catch more fish.

Why Use Topwater Lures?

Topwater lures are unique because they trigger reaction strikes from fish. The splashes, vibrations, and erratic movements on the surface mimic the actions of injured prey, making it irresistible to predatory fish. Here are some key benefits of using topwater lures:

• Visual Excitement: The thrill of watching a fish strike on the surface adds an extra layer of excitement to your fishing experience.

• Highly Effective in Shallow Water: Topwater lures are ideal for targeting fish in shallow areas, especially near structures like weed beds, logs, and docks, making them particularly effective for bass fishing.

• Versatile for Different Species: You can catch a variety of freshwater fish with topwater lures, including bass, pike, trout, and even panfish.

Choosing the Right Topwater Lure

Selecting the perfect topwater lure can feel overwhelming, especially with the myriad of options available. However, understanding the unique characteristics of each type of topwater lure can significantly enhance your chances of catching bass.

First, consider the water conditions. In clear water, natural colors and subtle actions are often more effective, while in murky water, brighter colors and louder lures can help attract fish. For instance, a popper with its loud popping sound and splash is ideal for drawing fish from a distance in less clear water.

Next, think about the target species. Different fish respond to different types of topwater lures. For example, largemouth bass are often enticed by frog lures in weedy areas, while smallmouth bass might prefer the erratic action of a walking bait in open water.

Your personal fishing style also plays a crucial role. If you enjoy a more active approach, a walking bait that requires a rhythmic, side-to-side motion might be your go-to. On the other hand, if you prefer a slower, more deliberate technique, a frog lure with a steady retrieve could be more suitable.

By considering these factors and experimenting with various topwater lures, you can find the perfect match for your fishing conditions and style, ultimately increasing your catch ratio and making your topwater fishing experience more rewarding.

Types of Topwater Lures and When to Use Them

There are several types of topwater lures, each with its own unique action. Choosing the right one depends on the conditions, the target species, and your personal fishing style.

1. Poppers

Poppers are designed to create a loud popping sound and splash when you jerk the rod. This commotion draws fish from a distance.

• Best For: Largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and pike.

• How to Use: Cast the popper near cover, like weed beds or fallen trees. Let it sit for a moment, then jerk the rod to make the popper splash and pop. Pause between jerks to give fish time to strike.

2. Walking Baits (Zara Spooks)

Walking baits, also known as "walk-the-dog" lures, have a side-to-side zigzag motion when retrieved with a steady rhythm.

• Best For: Bass, pike, and larger predatory fish.

• How to Use: Cast out and let the lure settle. Use a rhythmic, side-to-side twitching motion with your rod tip to create the classic zigzag action. Vary the speed to trigger strikes.

3. Frogs

Frog lures are designed to mimic the appearance and movement of real frogs. They are weedless, making them perfect for fishing in heavy vegetation.

• Best For: Largemouth bass, especially in weedy or lily pad-filled areas.

• How to Use: Cast directly into thick cover where other lures might get snagged. Use a slow, steady retrieve with occasional pauses to mimic a frog swimming.

4. Buzzbaits

Buzz baits have a spinning blade that creates a lot of surface commotion, making them great for covering large areas quickly.

• Best For: Bass, especially in the early morning or late evening when fish are actively feeding.

• How to Use: Cast and retrieve at a steady pace to keep the buzz bait on the surface. Consider adding a trailer hook to your buzz bait to increase your chances of hooking fish that may strike short. Vary your speed to find what works best.

5. Prop Baits

Prop baits have spinning blades on the front or rear that create splashes and vibrations. These lures are great for imitating distressed baitfish.

• Best For: Bass and pike.

• How to Use: Cast near structure and retrieve with short, sharp jerks to activate the propellers. Pause occasionally to let the lure float motionless.

Techniques for Using Topwater Lures

Using topwater lures effectively requires a bit of practice and the right technique. Here are some proven strategies to help you maximize your success:

1. The Pause and Twitch

One of the most effective techniques is to cast your lure, let it sit for a few seconds, then twitch it lightly. This imitates a wounded baitfish or insect struggling on the surface.

• When to Use It: Ideal in calm waters or when targeting fish that are skittish.

• Best For: Poppers, walking baits, and prop baits.

Walking the Dog with the Rod Tip

The "walk-the-dog" technique is great for covering a lot of water quickly. It involves creating a zigzag motion by twitching the rod tip side to side.

• When to Use It: Perfect for open water or when fish are actively chasing baitfish.

• Best For: Walking baits like Zara Spooks.

3. Steady Retrieve with a Buzzbait

Buzzbaits are designed to be retrieved steadily to keep the propeller spinning and creating surface noise, which is particularly effective during a strong topwater bite. This technique works best when fish are feeding aggressively.

• When to Use It: Early morning, late evening, or overcast days when fish are feeding near the surface.

• Best For: Buzzbaits and prop baits.

4. Slow Crawling with Frog Lures

When fishing in heavy vegetation or near lily pads, a slow and steady retrieve with a frog lure can entice bass hiding in thick cover.

• When to Use It: During the summer when fish are holding in dense vegetation.

• Best For: Hollow-body frogs and weedless soft plastic frogs.

Tips for Topwater Bass Fishing Success

Here are some additional tips to help you make the most of your topwater fishing experience:

1. Use the Right Gear

• Rod: A medium-heavy rod with a fast action tip is ideal for topwater lures, as it provides the backbone needed for solid hook sets.

• Reel: A high-speed reel allows you to quickly retrieve slack line and set the hook when a fish strikes.

• Line: Use braided line for topwater fishing because it has no stretch, allowing for better hook sets. Braided line also floats, which helps keep your lure on the surface.

2. Fish During Prime Times

Topwater lures are most effective during low light conditions, such as early morning, late evening, or on overcast days, when topwater action is at its peak. Fish are more likely to be feeding near the surface during these times.

3. Focus on Structure

Fish often hold near structures like docks, fallen trees, weed beds, and rocky points, and a fish swirl can indicate their presence. Cast your topwater lure close to these areas and retrieve it slowly to draw fish out.

4. Be Patient

When fishing with topwater lures, it’s crucial to wait a second or two after a fish strikes before setting the hook. This gives the fish time to fully take the lure into its mouth.

5. Experiment with Colors and Sizes

If you’re not getting bites, try changing the color or size of your topwater lure. Natural colors work best in clear water, while brighter colors are more effective in murky water.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced anglers can make mistakes when using topwater lures. Here are some things to watch out for:

• Setting the Hook Too Early: It’s easy to get excited when a fish strikes, but setting the hook too quickly can cause you to miss the fish. Wait until you feel the weight of the fish before setting the hook.

• Fishing Too Fast: Sometimes a slower, more deliberate retrieve is needed to trigger strikes, especially in colder water.

• Ignoring Wind Conditions: Topwater lures are less effective in choppy water. Try to fish in calmer areas or on days with minimal wind.

• Using the Wrong Hooks: Ensure you are using sharp treble hooks to increase your hook-up ratio, especially with topwater lures like poppers and spook style baits.

Conclusion

Using topwater lures can be one of the most thrilling ways to catch freshwater fish. By mastering different techniques and choosing the right lures for the conditions, you can increase your chances of landing more fish. Whether you’re targeting bass in a weedy lake or trout in a clear stream, topwater fishing offers an exciting challenge that’s sure to keep you coming back for more.

FAQs

1. What’s the best time of day for using topwater lures? Early morning and late evening are the best times, as fish are more likely to feed on the surface during low light conditions.
2. Can I use topwater lures in rivers? Yes, topwater lures work well in rivers, especially near structures like logs and rocks where fish are hiding.
3. What’s the best line for topwater fishing? Braided line is recommended because it floats and has no stretch, allowing for better hook sets.
4. How do I know which topwater lure to use? Choose a popper for noisy commotion, a frog for heavy cover, and a walking bait for open water.
5. Should I use topwater lures in winter? Topwater lures are generally less effective in cold water, as fish are less likely to chase prey on the surface. Focus on warmer months for best results.