Few fishing experiences match the heart-pounding excitement of a topwater strike. Watching a bass explode on your lure at the water’s surface is not only thrilling but also highly effective for catching big bass. Whether you’re an experienced angler or new to bass fishing, mastering topwater techniques can significantly boost your success and enjoyment. Here’s how to do it right.
1. Why Topwater Fishing?
Topwater fishing is about more than the thrill of the strike—it’s a strategic way to target bass during specific times and conditions. Big bass often feed on surface prey, such as frogs, insects, and baitfish, particularly in low-light conditions or areas with dense cover. Topwater lures create disturbances on the surface that mimic struggling prey, enticing bass to attack aggressively.
2. Essential Gear for Topwater Fishing
Having the right equipment is crucial for successful topwater fishing. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Rod: Use a medium-heavy to heavy-action rod with a fast tip for better control and hook-setting power. A rod between 6’6″ and 7’3″ is ideal.
- Reel: A baitcasting reel offers precision and control, which is especially useful for topwater techniques.
- Line: Braided line is a top choice for topwater fishing due to its strength and low stretch, allowing for solid hooksets. Monofilament is also a good option, as it floats and provides more slack during retrieves.
3. Choosing the Right Topwater Lures
The type of lure you use depends on the conditions and the behavior of the bass. Here are the top choices:
- Poppers: These lures make a popping sound and create a splash to attract attention. Ideal for calm waters.
- Walking Baits (Stickbaits): Known for their “walk-the-dog” action, these lures glide side-to-side, mimicking an injured baitfish.
- Frogs: Perfect for fishing in heavy cover, such as lily pads or thick vegetation. Weedless designs reduce snags.
- Buzzbaits: These lures have a rotating blade that churns the water, creating noise and vibration to draw bass in from a distance.
- Prop Baits: Equipped with spinning propellers, these lures create ripples and splashes, mimicking small fish or insects.
4. When and Where to Fish Topwater
- Time of Day: Early morning and late evening are prime times for topwater fishing, as bass are more active near the surface during these cooler hours.
- Season: Spring and fall are the best seasons for topwater action. During the summer, focus on shaded areas or fish topwater at night.
- Location: Target areas with cover, such as weed beds, submerged logs, docks, or rocky shorelines. These are places where bass ambush prey.
5. Mastering Topwater Techniques
Topwater fishing is as much about presentation as it is about location. Here are some key techniques:
Walking the Dog
This is a popular technique using walking baits. To execute:
- Cast your lure and let it sit for a moment.
- Begin a steady rhythm of short rod twitches while reeling slowly.
- The lure should zigzag across the surface, mimicking a distressed baitfish.
Popping and Pausing
Using a popper:
- Cast near cover and let the lure rest momentarily.
- Give short, sharp jerks to create a popping sound, then pause.
- Vary the cadence until you find what triggers the bass.
Buzzing
With buzzbaits:
- Cast and retrieve steadily, keeping the lure skimming the surface.
- Adjust your speed to create the desired level of splash and noise.
Frog Fishing in Cover
When using frogs:
- Cast into dense vegetation.
- Slowly twitch the lure across the surface, mimicking a live frog.
- Pause occasionally, especially near openings in the vegetation.
6. Tips for Success
- Watch for Follows: Pay attention to any movement or disturbances behind your lure; it could mean a bass is sizing up its attack.
- Be Patient: Sometimes, bass will strike after a prolonged pause. Let your lure sit for a few seconds before reeling again.
- Perfect the Hookset: When a bass strikes, avoid setting the hook immediately. Wait until you feel the weight of the fish, then set the hook firmly.
- Adjust for Wind: On windy days, use lures like buzzbaits that create more noise and commotion to help bass locate your lure.
7. Practice Catch-and-Release
Topwater bass fishing often targets trophy-sized fish. To ensure sustainable fishing, handle your catch gently, use barbless hooks, and release the fish back into the water quickly.
Final Thoughts
Topwater fishing for big bass is an adrenaline-fueled challenge that rewards skill, patience, and timing. By equipping yourself with the right gear, mastering the techniques, and choosing the best locations, you’ll be on your way to landing impressive catches. Remember, every cast is a chance for a memorable strike—so get out there and make it happen!
Tight lines and explosive strikes await!
