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

Wiki Article

When looking at bass fishing, few experiences rival the heart-pounding excitement of the topwater strike. Watching a largemouth explode on the lure dancing over the surface is exactly what keeps many anglers addicted to the sport. But deciding on the best topwater lure may make all the difference from a quiet morning plus a trophy catch. Here’s a breakdown of the best bass lure setup and the 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 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 between, especially during early morning or late evening when bass are feeding nearby 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 all in the wrist: maintain the 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 outer lining, producing vibration and sound bass can’t resist. They’re perfect for early morning runs or when you need to provoke reaction strikes. Run them parallel to weed lines or across shallow flats, and be ready — strikes might be violent.

4. Frogs: King of 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 impulse to set the hook immediately — wait a split second to have 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 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 anything 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 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 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 very best retrieve is often a slow, teasing one with long pauses.

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

Topwater bass fishing is all about more than just catching fish — it’s in regards to the thrill, the anticipation, along with the explosion that follows. Whether you’re walking a Zara Spook across open water or skipping a frog through thick pads, each lure brings a distinctive surface action that will trigger unforgettable strikes.

So the very next time you hit the water, tie on the topwater lure and prepare — the bite you’ve been looking forward to might just happen right on the outer lining.