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

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When it comes to 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 selecting the most appropriate topwater lure can make all the difference between a quiet morning and a trophy catch. Here’s a breakdown of the fishing tackle shop 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 can cause 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 involving, especially during 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 prepared for the famous “walk-the-dog” motion — a rhythmic side-to-side glide that mimics injured baitfish. The trick is in the wrist: keep your rod tip down and use steady twitches while retrieving. This lure works exceptionally well over 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 day runs or when you need to provoke reaction strikes. Run them parallel to weed lines or across shallow flats, and stay ready — strikes could 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 ideal for fishing in places other lures would snag. Their weedless design permits them to glide effortlessly across pads and mats. When a bass strikes, resist the need to set the hook immediately — wait a moment 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 at 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 whatever 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 top 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 will trigger unforgettable strikes.

So the next time you hit the water, tie with a topwater lure and prepare — the bite you’ve been waiting for might just happen right on the counter.