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

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When looking at bass fishing, few experiences rival the heart-pounding excitement of a topwater strike. Watching a largemouth explode on the lure dancing over the surface is exactly what keeps many anglers hooked on the sport. But selecting the best topwater lure will make all the difference from the quiet morning plus a trophy catch. Here’s a dysfunction of the best topwater fishing lures and the way 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 induce 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 near 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 designed for the famous “walk-the-dog” motion — a rhythmic side-to-side glide that mimics injured baitfish. The trick 's all in the wrist: maintain your rod tip down and make use of steady twitches while retrieving. This lure works exceptionally above 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 top, producing vibration and sound bass can’t resist. They’re perfect for morning hours runs or when you want to provoke reaction strikes. Run them parallel to weed lines or across shallow flats, and be ready — strikes might be violent.

4. Frogs: King with the Weeds

Best for: Heavy vegetation and lily pads.
Top choices: Booyah Pad Crasher, LIVETARGET Hollow Body Frog, SPRO Bronzeye Frog.

Frog lures are fantastic for fishing in places other lures would snag. Their weedless design enables them to glide effortlessly across pads and mats. When a bass strikes, resist the urge to set the hook immediately — wait a split second to notice 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 end or back that churn water, creating both visual flash and noise. They shine during post-spawn periods when bass are territorial and able 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 surface, 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 most effective 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 over a topwater lure and prepare — the bite you’ve been waiting for might just happen right on the counter.