Engaging in bass fishing with topwater baits undoubtedly provides the most enjoyable experience, whether targeting large or smallmouth bass. While professional tournaments showcase experts using a variety of lures like plastics, spinners, jigs, and crankbaits, the sheer fun and excitement offered by topwater baits often go overlooked. These baits not only generate thrilling action but also create memorable stories to share with family and fellow fishing enthusiasts.
For optimal topwater bass fishing, summer emerges as the prime season. In colder waters, a slower response necessitates more effort in manipulating the bait. The early morning and evening periods prove most fruitful for this style of fishing.
Weather conditions play a pivotal role in lure selection. Bright, sunny days paired with a light wind are ideal, as a gentle chop reduces bass skittishness. On calm, sunny days, opt for heavier lures and lighter lines for extended casting. In clear and calm waters, bass tend to be more cautious, making longer casts advantageous.
Wind conditions also influence the choice of topwater baits. When the wind picks up, smaller baits that produce significant noise are recommended. Larger baits may struggle through the chop, while smaller ones ride the waves, maintaining an enticing noise to trigger the desired strike. Fishing through the troughs created by the wind can enhance your chances of success.
Topwater bass fishing comes with its own set of nuances. Precise casting to cover areas and a clear retrieve are essential. Most topwater bass fishing occurs in shallow water over weed beds, flats, and around objects and shoreline cover, as the majority of bass remain in shallow waters during the summer.
When employing topwater baits, cast slightly past the target and bring the bait as close to cover as possible. If there's no strike in the initial few feet, reel in and cast again. Patience is crucial, allowing the bait to sit for a few seconds before retrieval can attract bass hiding in shadows and under cover.
Upon a bass striking a topwater bait, resist the urge to set the hook immediately. Wait until you feel the fish before setting the hook, as setting it too early may result in missed opportunities.
Now, let's delve into some popular topwater baits:
Poppers: Among the oldest, they create a "bloop" noise when popped, working best in warm, calm, shallow, clear water.
Stickbaits: Rounded, hot-dog shaped lures with the angler imparting action. Jerking and reeling produce an erratic side-to-side motion.
Propbaits: Cigar-shaped with propellers, offering versatility in speed and noise. Stop-and-go retrieves work well.
Wobblers and Crawlers: Effective at night or early morning, producing a loud plopping sound. Steady slow retrieves yield the best results.
Buzzbaits: Surface lures designed like spinnerbaits, excellent for clear water. Experiment with twitching and varying speeds.
Weedless Spoons: Designed for dense cover, they excel in the thickest weeds, lily pads, or grass. Patience is crucial, especially with heavy tackle.
Bass fishing with topwater baits not only promises excitement but also invites anglers to experiment and adapt, making each outing a unique adventure.