Bass Topwater Tactics is a favorite way to fish for many anglers. Topwater fishing is visual and action-packed! But when you think of hollow-bodied weedless baits, like the Terminator Popping or Walking Frog, largemouth come to mind. The truth is, these can be just as effective for smallmouth bass, especially when they are cruising around the reeds.
There are many different options for topwater, and here are a few baits that work great for both smallmouth and largemouth bass.
Rapala Skitter V — This topwater bait features an exclusive design that radically alters the action of the lure. V-hull body design combined with tail weighted balance allows the lure to cut quick with the snap of the rod, ending with a soft, long glide on slack line. 
Terminator Popping Frog — This bait features a cupped face will create a loud, strong pop that drives fish crazy. Custom designed weight is shaped and positioned to stay out of the way of the hook. This frog fishing lure design creates a responsive, easy to impart, walking action. Extra-wide hook gap converts strikes into fights.
Terminator Walking Frog — Designed tip to tail to convert blow-ups into hook-ups, it’s a more productive frog, designed to maximize its hook’s efficiency. Not only does it have a great walking action, it has features inside you can’t see that make it a bait unlike anything bass anglers have seen. Its trapezoidal-shaped weight won’t interfere with its hook at the moment of impact. Unlike other frogs on the market, the weight is shaped and positioned to stay out of the way of the hook.
Topwater fishing is an exciting and effective technique for catching bass. In this article, we will discuss some topwater tactics that can help you catch more fish. Whether you’re fishing in mid-summer or during other environmental conditions, topwater baits can be highly effective throughout the season. We’ll cover different types of topwater baits, such as poppers and prop baits, and provide tips on how to fish them successfully. So let’s dive in and explore the world of topwater fishing for bass!
Understanding Cadence and Bait Selection
When it comes to topwater fishing, understanding the cadence of your bait is crucial. Different topwater baits require different retrieval speeds and cadences. In hot conditions, you can fish the bait quickly, and the fish will aggressively strike. On the other hand, in slower conditions, you may need to slow down the cadence and add more pauses to entice the fish.
One popular topwater bait for smallmouth bass is the prop bait. This bait works well in windier conditions due to its ability to go partially subsurface and create a larger bubble trail. The prop bait has two props that make noise and create a larger profile, attracting smallmouth bass. It is important to fish the prop bait with a specific cadence, such as a double rip and pause, to mimic the bait’s action underwater.
Another effective topwater bait for smallmouth bass is the popper. This bait creates a popping sound and splashes on the surface, imitating a wounded baitfish. The popper is especially effective when fishing in shallow water or around cover like bull rushes. Making shorter casts and targeting little openings in the vegetation can yield great results with the popper.
Fishing Techniques for Different Environments
When fishing topwater baits, it is important to consider the environment and adjust your techniques accordingly. In clear water, smallmouth bass tend to be more cautious and may require a more subtle presentation. Using natural colors and a slower cadence can be effective in clear water conditions.
In contrast, in stained or murky water, smallmouth bass rely more on their lateral line to detect prey. Using baits with more noise and vibration, such as the prop bait or popper, can help attract their attention. Additionally, using brighter colors can help the fish locate the bait more easily in these conditions.
Targeting Structure and Cover
Smallmouth bass are often found around structure and cover, such as boulders, weeds, and color changes. These areas provide them with ambush points and protection. When fishing topwater baits, it is important to target these areas to increase your chances of success.
Using polarized sunglasses can greatly enhance your ability to see below the surface and identify potential hotspots. Look for isolated rocks, weed edges, and color changes, as these are often areas where smallmouth bass like to hang out. Making precise casts to these areas can yield great results.
The use of anchoring systems, such as spot lock or dual raptors, can also be beneficial when fishing in shallow water. These systems help keep the boat in place, allowing you to make accurate casts to specific targets without drifting around.
Personal Experience and the Power of Words
In addition to discussing topwater fishing techniques, the transcript also touches on a personal experience and the power of words. The speaker shares a story about a book titled “The Power of Hope” and how it had a special meaning to them. They highlight the importance of speaking life-producing words and how it can have a profound impact on one’s life.
The speaker relates this concept to their personal experience with their wife’s health issues and the power of prayer and scripture. They emphasize the power of the word of God and how it can bring hope and healing.
Conclusion
Topwater fishing for bass can be an exhilarating and rewarding experience. Understanding the cadence and selecting the right bait for the conditions are key factors in achieving success. Whether you choose to fish with a prop bait or a popper, adjusting your techniques to the environment and targeting structure and cover can greatly increase your chances of catching smallmouth bass.
Additionally, the transcript reminds us of the power of words and the impact they can have on our lives. Speaking life-producing words and finding hope in challenging situations can bring about positive change.
