There’s nothing quite like seeing a bass explode on a topwater bait. That heart-stopping moment makes it one of the most exciting ways to fish. But with so many options available, choosing the right topwater can feel overwhelming. I’ve spent years chasing bass with different lures, and I’ve learned what works and what doesn’t. Let’s break down some of the best topwater baits to help you hook more fish.
Here’s a quick look at the top contenders:
- Heddon Zara Spook: Classic walk-the-dog action.
- LIVETARGET Hollow Body Frog: Realistic frog imitation.
- Strike King KVD Sexy Dawg: Easy to walk and casts a mile.
- Rebel Pop-R: Great popping action for attracting attention.
- Whopper Plopper: Unique tail spin creates irresistible sound.
Top 5 Best Topwater Baits for Bass – Reviews
1. Heddon Zara Spook
The Zara Spook is a legendary lure for a reason. It’s been catching bass for decades with its classic “walk-the-dog” action. This bait requires a specific retrieve, but once you master it, the Spook is deadly.
Pros:
- ✅ Proven fish-catching ability.
- ✅ Durable construction.
- ✅ Wide range of colors available.
Cons:
- ❌ Requires practice to master the retrieve.
- ❌ Can be prone to fouling with line.
- ❌ Not ideal in heavy cover.
Verdict: A must-have for any serious topwater angler, especially for open water situations where you can really work the walking action.
2. LIVETARGET Hollow Body Frog
When fishing around heavy vegetation, a hollow body frog is essential. The LIVETARGET Hollow Body Frog stands out because of its incredibly realistic design and action. It mimics a real frog perfectly, enticing even the most wary bass.
Pros:
- ✅ Extremely realistic appearance and movement.
- ✅ Weedless design for fishing in heavy cover.
- ✅ Soft body for better hooksets.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be more expensive than other frogs.
- ❌ Body can tear after repeated use.
- ❌ Hookup ratio can be lower if not using the right gear.
Verdict: If you’re serious about frog fishing and want a high-quality, realistic lure, the LIVETARGET Hollow Body Frog is worth the investment. It’s great around lily pads and matted grass.
3. Strike King KVD Sexy Dawg
The Strike King KVD Sexy Dawg is a fantastic walking bait that’s easier to use than the Zara Spook. Its design allows for effortless walk-the-dog action, making it a great choice for beginners and experienced anglers alike. The Sexy Dawg also casts incredibly far, letting you cover more water.
Pros:
- ✅ Easy to walk, even for beginners.
- ✅ Excellent casting distance.
- ✅ Produces a loud, attracting sound.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be too loud in clear water.
- ❌ Hooks may need to be upgraded.
- ❌ Not as durable as some other walking baits.
Verdict: A great all-around walking bait that’s perfect for covering water quickly and triggering strikes from aggressive bass.
4. Rebel Pop-R
The Rebel Pop-R is a classic popper that has been around for years. Its cupped face creates a loud popping sound that attracts bass from a distance. It’s a simple yet effective lure that works well in a variety of situations.
Pros:
- ✅ Creates a loud, attention-grabbing pop.
- ✅ Affordable price point.
- ✅ Versatile lure that can be used in different conditions.
Cons:
- ❌ Paint finish can wear off quickly.
- ❌ Hooks may need to be sharpened.
- ❌ Not as effective in heavy cover.
Verdict: A reliable and affordable popper that’s a great addition to any tackle box. It’s especially effective when bass are actively feeding on the surface.
5. Whopper Plopper
The Whopper Plopper is one of the most popular topwater baits on the market today. Its unique rotating tail creates a distinctive plopping sound that bass can’t resist. It’s easy to use and works well at a variety of speeds, making it a versatile choice for different fishing conditions.
Pros:
- ✅ Unique plopping sound is highly effective.
- ✅ Easy to use, works well at different speeds.
- ✅ Durable construction.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be expensive compared to other topwater baits.
- ❌ Can be too loud in clear, calm water.
- ❌ Treble hooks can snag easily on debris.
Verdict: An excellent topwater bait that consistently produces strikes. It’s a great choice when you need to cover water quickly and make a lot of noise to attract bass.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right topwater bait can be tricky, but here are a few things to consider:
- Water Clarity: In clear water, use more natural-looking colors and subtle actions. In murky water, go for brighter colors and louder baits.
- Cover: If you’re fishing around heavy vegetation, a weedless frog or buzzbait is essential. For open water, walking baits and poppers are great choices.
- Weather Conditions: On calm days, subtle baits like walking baits and poppers can be effective. On windy days, louder baits like Whopper Ploppers and buzzbaits can help bass locate your lure.
- Bass Activity: If bass are actively feeding on the surface, they’re more likely to strike a topwater bait. Look for signs of feeding activity, such as baitfish jumping or bass chasing prey.
- Rod and Reel Setup: Use a rod with a moderate to fast action for topwater fishing. This will allow you to cast accurately and work the bait effectively. A high-speed reel is also helpful for quickly picking up slack line when a bass strikes.
- Line Choice: Braided line is a great choice for topwater fishing because it has no stretch, which allows for better hooksets. Monofilament line can also be used, but it has more stretch, which can make it harder to set the hook.
FAQs
Q: What is “walking the dog?”
A: It’s a retrieve where you twitch your rod tip rhythmically, making the lure swing side to side like a dog walking. The Zara Spook is famous for this.
Q: What size topwater should I use?
A: It depends on the size of the bass in your area and the size of the baitfish they’re feeding on. Generally, smaller baits work well in clear water, while larger baits are better for murky water.
Q: When is the best time to use topwater baits?
A: Topwater fishing is typically best in the early morning and late evening when the sun is low. Overcast days can also be productive. Water temperature also plays a role; bass are more likely to hit topwater baits when the water is warm.
Q: How do I set the hook on a topwater strike?
A: Wait until you feel the fish pull the lure under the water before setting the hook. Avoid setting the hook too early, as you’ll likely pull the lure away from the bass. A sweeping hookset is often more effective than a hard jerk.
Q: What if the bass are short striking my topwater lure?
A: If bass are hitting your lure but not getting hooked, try downsizing your bait or using a trailer hook. You can also try varying your retrieve to see if that triggers a better strike.
Conclusion
Topwater fishing is one of the most exciting ways to catch bass. By choosing the right bait and using the right techniques, you can increase your chances of landing more fish. Whether you prefer the classic walk-the-dog action of the Zara Spook, the realistic look of the LIVETARGET frog, or the unique sound of the Whopper Plopper, there’s a topwater bait out there for every angler. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you in your local waters. Good luck, and tight lines!
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