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

When you are looking for bass fishing, few experiences rival the heart-pounding excitement of the topwater strike. Watching a largemouth explode on the lure dancing throughout the surface is the thing that keeps many anglers hooked on the sport. But deciding on the best topwater lure will make all the difference from the quiet morning along with a trophy catch. Here’s a breakdown of the surface fishing lures and how 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 create 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 in between, 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 's all in the wrist: keep the rod tip down and rehearse steady twitches while retrieving. This lure works exceptionally more than 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 morning runs or when you need to provoke reaction strikes. Run them parallel to weed lines or across shallow flats, and be ready — strikes may 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 allows them to glide effortlessly across pads and mats. When a bass strikes, resist the urge to set the hook immediately — wait a minute to glance at 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 in 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 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 counter, leaving a V-shaped wake that resembles a swimming baitfish. They’re subtle yet effective when bass are cautious or feeding close to the top although 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 best retrieve can be a slow, teasing one with long pauses.

Use the proper gear: Medium-heavy rods and braided line help you make solid hooksets and work lures efficiently.

Topwater bass fishing is all about more than just catching fish — it’s about 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 could trigger unforgettable strikes.

So the next occasion you hit the river, tie with a topwater lure and make preparations — the bite you’ve been expecting might just happen right on the outer lining.