Surface Fishing Smallmouth Bass

Nothing beats surface fishing smallmouth bass concerning fun for a good time. Smallmouth bass are known for their active nature and constant movement. Unlike largemouth bass, which tend to be more sedentary, smallmouth bass are always on the move. If you’re fishing for smallmouth bass, especially in the northern parts of the country, you should never go on the water without a topwater bait. In this article, we’ll explore the four different styles of topwater baits for smallmouth bass and when to use each one.

The Four Styles of Topwater Baits

1. Prop Baits: Prop baits, like the Rapala Skinner prop or X rap prop, are designed to work well in choppy or wavy water. They have blades that create a ticking sound when moved, which can attract fish even in less-than-ideal conditions. The Skinner prop is particularly known for its excellent hooking and holding capabilities. Prop baits are also effective in current environments, as even the slightest movement can get the blades spinning.
2. Poppers: Poppers are best used when fish are neutral to positive. These lures create a unique popping noise that catches the attention of fish and entices them to strike. After popping the lure, you can let it sit in the strike zone for a long time, driving the fish crazy. Poppers are great search lures and can be used to cover a lot of water.
3. Jump Baits: Jump baits are not for the average angler, as they require some practice to achieve a proper presentation. However, the upside is huge, as jump baits are known for attracting big fish. They are like muskie baits, and if you spot a big fish, putting on a jump bait can lead to explosive strikes. Jump baits work best in calm conditions, so early morning and late evening are ideal times to use them.
4. Wake Baits: Wake baits, like the BX wake bait, have a ton of great attributes. They are counterweighted to create a big rolling action, making them irresistible to fish. Wake baits are perfectly balanced, allowing for long casts, which is important when chasing loose schools of open water smallmouth bass. They can be fished in both calm and wavy conditions with equal success. When waking at the surface, the reflection off the bottom of the water acts like a mirror, creating a schooling image that attracts fish. Wake baits can be fished at various speeds, making them versatile and effective.

Fishing for Smallmouth Bass with Topwater Baits

When fishing for smallmouth bass with topwater baits, it’s important to consider the conditions and the behavior of the fish. Here are some tips to help you maximize your success:

1. Choose the right bait for the conditions: If the water is choppy or wavy, opt for prop baits. If the fish are neutral to positive, go for poppers. In calm conditions, jump baits can be effective, and wake baits are versatile and can be used in various conditions.
2. Vary your retrieve speed: Smallmouth bass can be finicky, so it’s important to experiment with different retrieve speeds. Sometimes a fast retrieve will trigger a strike, while other times a slow, subtle retrieve will be more effective. Pay attention to the fish’s response and adjust accordingly.
3. Target areas with structure: While smallmouth bass can be found in open water, they are often associated with structure such as rocks, weed beds, and submerged logs. These areas provide cover and ambush points for the fish. Cast your topwater bait near these structures and work it back towards you, mimicking the movement of prey.
4. Time your fishing trips: Smallmouth bass are more active during certain times of the day. Early morning and late evening are prime times to target them with topwater baits. During these times, the fish are more likely to be feeding near the surface and will be more responsive to your lure.
5. Control your emotions: When fishing with topwater baits, it’s common to get excited when a fish strikes. However, it’s important to remain calm and maintain control of your emotions. This will help ensure a solid hookset and increase your chances of landing the fish.

Conclusion

Fishing for smallmouth bass with topwater baits is an exciting and effective technique. The four different styles of topwater baits – prop baits, poppers, jump baits, and wake baits – each have their own unique characteristics and can be used in different conditions. By choosing the right bait, varying your retrieve speed, targeting areas with structure, timing your fishing trips, and controlling your emotions, you can increase your chances of success when targeting smallmouth bass with topwater baits.

Remember to always check the local regulations and obtain the necessary permits before fishing. And most importantly, enjoy the experience and appreciate the beauty of nature while out on the water. Happy fishing!