Are you tired of casting your line into the water and waiting for ages only to be disappointed? Do you want to learn a technique that will make your fishing trips more thrilling and successful? Look no further than top water lures. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a novice fisherman, using top-water lures can revolutionize your fishing game.
These lures have a unique ability to trigger explosive strikes from predatory fish, creating heart-stopping moments that will leave you hooked.
In this blog post on how to use top water lures, we will delve into the world of topwater lures, exploring their various types, techniques for using them effectively, and how they can significantly enhance your fishing experience. Get ready to take your fishing to new heights as we unlock the secrets of top-water lure fishing.
What Will You Need?
Before we dive into the specifics of how to use top water lures, let’s first gather all the necessary tools and equipment that you will need. Here are some essential items to have on hand when using top water lures:
- Top water lures (various types depending on your target fish species)
- Fishing rod and reel
- Line (preferably monofilament or fluorocarbon for better visibility)
- Pliers (for removing hooks)
- Scissors (for cutting line)
- Polarized sunglasses (to reduce glare and help spot fish)
With these basics covered, let’s move on to the different types of topwater lures that you can use in various fishing situations.
10 Easy Steps on How to Use Top Water Lures
Step 1. Choose the Right Top Water Lure:
Depending on the species of fish you’re targeting, the time of day, and the water condition, you’ll want to select an appropriate top water lure. There’s a wide variety to choose from, including poppers, prop baits, walking baits, and frogs. Each one will generate a different action on the water’s surface to attract fish, so choose wisely.
Step 2. Rig the Lure:
Once you’ve chosen the appropriate top water lure, the next step is to rig it onto your line properly. If your lure doesn’t come pre-rigged, you must use a knot like the Improved Clinch Knot or Palomar Knot. Make sure that the knot is tight and secure. The lure must sit correctly in the water to ensure the best possible action and presentation to the fish.
Step 3. Cast the Lure:
Next, you need to cast your top water lure into the water. Aim for spots where fish are likely to hide or hunt, such as near submerged logs, weed beds, or around rocky outcrops. The goal is to make your lure land as naturally as possible on the water, mimicking the landing of prey. Make sure your line is taut, and be prepared to start your retrieve almost immediately.
Step 4. Work the Lure:
After you cast your top water lure, the next step is to begin working it on the water’s surface. Depending on the type of lure you are using, this could involve various techniques. For example, if you are using a popper, you would want to use a quick, sharp pulling motion to create a “pop” or splashing effect on the surface.
On the other hand, if you’re using a walking bait, you would use a rhythmic side-to-side action to make the lure “walk” on the water. Remember, the goal is to make the lure mimic the movements of prey, enticing the fish to strike.
Step 5. Pause and Observe:
Once you’ve worked your lure for a bit, let it pause. This pause can often trigger a strike from a fish, so be alert. Watch the water around your lure carefully for any movement or ripples indicating a fish is interested. It’s important to remember that patience pays off, so take your time to reel in your lure if you don’t get a bite right away. Keep your rod tip up and your line taut, ready to set the hook when a fish strikes.
Step 6. Set the Hook:
When you see a fish strike at your top water lure, you need to set the hook quickly. This involves a sharp, upward tug on your fishing rod, which drives the hook securely into the fish’s mouth. However, timing is crucial in this step. If you set the hook too early, you may pull the lure out of the fish’s reach.
Likewise, if you set the hook too late, the fish may spit out the lure. Wait until you feel the weight of the fish on your line or see the lure disappear beneath the water’s surface before setting the hook. The key is to react swiftly yet deliberately.
Step 7. Reel in the Fish:
After successfully setting the hook, it’s time to reel in the fish. Keep the line taut and your rod tip up to maintain tension on the hook. Be careful not to reel too fast, as it could break the line or lose the fish. If the fish is large and resisting, you might need to let it run to tire itself out before reeling it in. Always reel in smoothly and steadily to prevent the fish from getting away.
Step 8. Handle the Fish:
Once you’ve reeled the fish close to your position, it’s time to handle the fish. Use a net to bring the fish out of the water safely. Wet your hands before touching the fish to minimize damage to their protective slime layer.
If the fish has swallowed the hook, use pliers to remove it carefully. Remember, handling should always be done swiftly and gently to minimize stress on the fish, especially if you plan on releasing it back into the water.
Step 9. Release or Store the Fish:
If you plan to release the fish, point it head first into the water and gently move it back and forth to allow water to flow through its gills. Once the fish shows signs of life, let it swim away. If you’re keeping the fish, place it in a cooler or a live well to keep it fresh. Always ensure that the fish you keep are within the legal size and species limits for the fishing area.
Step 10. Enjoy and Practice Your Technique:
The most crucial step in using top water lures is to enjoy the experience! Whether you catch a fish or not, appreciate your surroundings and the thrill of fishing with top water lures.
As with any technique, practice makes perfect, so don’t be discouraged if you don’t get a bite immediately. Be patient, experiment with different lures and procedures, and soon, you’ll be a pro at using top water lures to catch various fish species.
By following these ten easy steps, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a skilled angler who knows how to effectively use topwater lures.
5 Additional Tips and Tricks
- Weather Conditions: Top water lures work best in warm and calm weather conditions. The still water surface allows for optimal lure performance.
- Timing: The best times to use top water lures are early morning or late evening when fish feed near the surface.
- Speed: Vary the speed of your retrieve. This can make the lure seem more like natural prey to the fish.
- Lure Selection: Choose a lure that matches the local prey fish in size and color. This increases the chance of attracting predatory fish.
- Location: Cast your lure around structures where fish are likely hiding, such as rocks, submerged trees, or lily pads. This will increase your chances of a catch.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to mastering topwater lures. Remember also to pay attention to your surroundings and adjust your techniques accordingly.
5 Things You Should Avoid
- Ignoring Weather and Water Conditions: It’s important to remember that topwater lures are less effective in rough or cold waters. Make sure to check the weather and water conditions before setting out.
- Using The Same Retrieval Speed: Constant retrieval speed can make the lure seem unnatural. Vary your retrieval speed to mimic the movement of live prey.
- Choosing the Wrong Lure Size or Color: Using a lure that doesn’t match the local baitfish can decrease your chances of attracting fish. Always opt for lures that resemble the local prey in size and color.
- Fishing in Open Water: Avoid casting your lure in the middle of open water where fish are less likely to be found. Aim for areas with structures or submerged objects where fish are likely to hide.
- Being Impatient: Patience is paramount when using top water lures. Take your time to retrieve your interest as soon as it hits the water; allow it time to attract the fish’s attention.
By avoiding these common mistakes and following the tips provided, you can effectively use topwater lures and increase your chances of a successful fishing trip.
Conclusion
In today’s blog post, we have covered the ins and outs of how to use top water lures. We have learned about the different types of top water lures available, their unique features, and how to effectively use them to increase our chances of catching fish. From the classic popper to the versatile frog lure, there is no shortage of options for topwater lures. So, pack your favorite top water lure next time you head out on a fishing trip!
But it’s about more than having the right gear. As discussed in this post, the technique is crucial in successfully using top water lures. Remember to vary your retrieval speed and cadence depending on the type of lure and location you are fishing in. Always pay attention to the behavior of the fish and adjust accordingly. Good luck!