Topwater Fishing: The Angler's Guide

Topwater fishing is a pretty playful technique. The epicenter of excitement is on the water's surface, which makes it quite different from most common fishing techniques.

This approach targets the top water layers by using artificial lures primarily designed for surface fishing. It focuses mainly on warm, shallow environments where fish are more aggressive and active. Lures create unique splash and sound, designed to mimic distressed prey and attract curious predators.

Although the concept is clear and sounds like an everyday recreational technique, topwater fishing might actually surprise you with its catch possibilities. You must know the environment, the fish you are pursuing, and the weather conditions, which primarily affect the surface of the water. 

So, if you're ready to learn more about experiencing the adrenaline rush of topwater fishing, stick to this guide! We'll dive into the essentials, from choosing the right baits and tackle to perfecting your technique and picking the best spots. Feel free to join us!

Understanding Topwater Fishing

Topwater fishing is as straightforward as it sounds. It primarily relies on the use of artificial baits such as poppers, buzz baits, and frogs that stay on or near the water surface. Natural water currents, wind, and rod and line manipulation by the angler allow the bait to imitate the injured fish's behavior. If the presentation is successfully performed, it will attract explosive attacks from various predators. 

The technique can be used in a variety of waters, including seas, lakes, rivers, and coasts, anywhere where the water is mostly shallow. The basic rule of the technique is clear: the challenge is to correctly imitate the behavior of the prey and attract the fish to the surface.

Although it may not sound like it at first, the topwater fishing technique can provide an extremely exciting experience because it allows the angler to see the moment when the fish attacks the bait, which adds an extra dimension of excitement and fun.

Why Use Topwater Fishing

The appeal of this technique is that it enables a direct presentation of the attack, which is hidden underwater in most techniques. Topwater baits, such as poppers, buzz baits, and frogs, create noise and movements on the surface that attract predators, making them very effective for hunting aggressive species.

In addition, topwater fishing allows anglers to combine and experiment with different baits and elements of other techniques, which leaves the possibility of using not-so-specialized tackle but a technique that is easy to adapt to even the most basic fishing equipment. 

It can be used in any shallow body of water, regardless of salt or freshwater, meaning you don't have to travel far and will only spend a little. The most important thing is that it is not dull and it is pretty active. You'll be constantly casting, retrieving, and adjusting your technique, which keeps you on your toes and makes for an engaging fishing experience.

When to Use Topwater Fishing

The best time to fish with the topwater technique is early morning and late evening when fish are often more active on the surface due to cooler temperatures and reduced light. Fishing in warm waters, where predators tend to be more aggressive and closer to the surface, is not a bad option. 

Also, on cloudy days, when the water surface is calm and reduced light conditions combine, fish are more likely to attack surface lures. High atmospheric pressures can lead to stable conditions that make it easier to predict fish behavior. In contrast, conditions after rain or storms can increase fish activity and make them more open to surface baits.

Why Fish Gather on Topwater Fishing

Fish gather around topwater baits primarily because of the visual spectacle and visual solid stimulus on the water's surface, which is especially noticeable in calm waters. The panicked movements of injured or fighting fish are all part of this show of fish, which attract predators in search of easy food. 

Second, many topwater lures produce sounds or vibrations as they move, such as splashing or grinding, which mimic the sounds of injured prey and can arouse fish curiosity. If you apply topwater fishing in warm waters, the fish often move closer to the surface, where the water is cooler and more oxygenated, making topwater baits more effective. 

Certain fish species, such as Bass and Pike, use the surface of the water as a strategy for suddenly attacking their prey, so topwater baits look like easy prey. The catch is in the combination of visual, sound, and behavioral signals that topwater baits provide, making them very effective for attracting and gathering fish near the surface of the water.

Fish Species Commonly Caught by Topwater Fishing

There are many fish that will respond to visual and auditory disturbances on the surface of the water. Still, some are significantly more cautious than others, which means that not all will respond in a way that will approach and investigate the bait. Common types include:

• Bass: Both species, Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass are among the most popular targets for topwater fishing. They are aggressive and known to be attracted to the commotion created by topwater lures such as poppers and buzz baits.

• Pike: The famous Northern Pike is known for its violent reactions to strikes on surface lures. Pikes are attracted to the splash and noise of baits on the water, making them a prime candidate for this technique.

• Muskie: Large and aggressive fish that will primarily react to larger baits. Their size and power make for an exciting fishing experience on the water.

• Trout: Although most species prefer cooler waters under certain conditions, especially in hot weather, Trout can be attracted to surface flies or small topwater lures, especially in streams and rivers.

• Tarpon: Tarpons are known for their acrobatic strikes on surface lures in coastal seas and oceans. Anglers often release them because they consider them a favorite and highly valued fish.

• Bonefish: You will catch them primarily in tropical and subtropical waters using a topwater fishing technique. They can be attracted by baits from the upper water, especially in shallow flats where they hunt for prey.

• Redfish: Just like Tarpon, you'll find them in coastal and estuarine waters, primarily if you center your topwater bait in areas with a lot of structure.

This technique is usually used to hunt aggressive species whose feeding impulses are stronger than caution and more prone to attraction to surface commotion.

Essential Gear for Topwater Fishing

Topwater fishing is an excellent choice for those just starting to fish or who want to reduce their fishing activities to a simple but dynamic enough technique that does not require expensive gear and can be used everywhere. Find out below which rods, lines, and lures you can choose for the topwater technique.

Rods

As we have already emphasized, when it comes to gear, it is easy to embark on an adventure called topwater fishing. The choice of the right rod primarily depends on your fishing preferences. It allows you to manipulate baits efficiently and respond to fast and powerful fish strikes. Here are the ones we recommend you look at.

• Medium to Heavy Action Rods: This type is popular for topwater fishing. They provide enough power to cope with aggressive fish strikes and enable accurate casting. They are not difficult to handle and make it easy to control the line and bait.

• Rods with a Fast Tip: Rods with a fast tip are ideal for topwater fishing because they allow quick reactions and precision in guiding baits. A fast tip helps better control the movement of baits such as poppers and buzz baits, increasing the chance of successfully attracting fish.

• Lure Rods: These rods are often used in topwater fishing due to their durability and ability to handle heavier baits. They also provide the power and precision needed for efficient casting and control of larger topwater lures.

• Spinning Rods: For anglers who prefer spinning gear, these rods have a medium action and fast tip, making them very easy to cast and manipulate lighter topwater lures.

Consider the length of the rod, and it is best to choose those 6.6 to 7.6 feet long. This will enable a more comprehensive casting range and easier handling of the bait. Regarding material, choose graphite or composite rods, which combine graphite and fiberglass and offer durability and flexibility.

Reels

Choosing the right reel mostly depends on what kind of baits you prefer. If you plan to use heavier, baitcasting reels are usually a better choice due to their ability to handle a heavier load without compromising precision. Spinning reels are a good option for lighter lures and more versatile handling, especially if simplicity and flexibility are essential to you.

• Baitcasting Reels: Baitcasting reels enable precise casting and handling of heavier baits. They have a robust drag system and high capacity and are ideal for aggressive predators and large topwater baits.

• Spinning Reels: This reel is also effective for topwater fishing, especially when using lighter baits. It will provide ease of use and greater versatility. The smooth drag system and sound control during casting make spinning reels suitable for fishermen who prefer lighter techniques and a variety of baits.

• Reels with a High Gear Ratio: Reels with a high gear ratio or a fast retrieve speed are a solid choice for this technique because they allow fast bait retrieval and dynamic guidance. They also help in the efficient handling of baits such as poppers and buzz bait, which require fast and variable action.

If you have the opportunity, a good option is to test the reel before you buy it. Check how it feels in the hand, how it behaves during casting, and how it behaves when pulling the bait. This is the easiest way to find out if the reel is comfortable and suits your needs.

Lines

There are many different types of fishing gear on the market, each offering distinct advantages in power, sensitivity, and control. If fishing in clear water or when the fish are very wary, consider lines like fluorocarbon, as they will ensure low visibility.

• Braided Lines: This line is very durable and resistant to wear, which is especially useful when used in environments with many obstacles. In addition, it does not absorb water, which means that it does not change its properties during use and enables precise control of baits.

• Monofilament Lines: These lines are flexible and resistant to twisting, and as such, they are suitable for water fishing due to their ability to carry themselves well on the surface of the water. They also have some degree of stretch, which can cushion the kicks of the fish and is suitable for use in clear waters where discretion is essential.

• Fluorocarbon Line: Fluorocarbon line is highly resistant to water and poorly visible, which can be helpful in situations where the fish are exceptionally cautious. Although it is usually more expensive than monofilament, its strength and sensitivity are excellent.

Choose a line that will provide you with adequate power, and that matches the type of fish you are targeting, as well as the weight of the bait you are using. For larger predators and heavier baits, it is best to opt for a braided line, and for lighter baits and smaller fish, monofilament or fluorocarbon line is best.

Rigs

Before buying the rigs that you think will serve you the longest, explore the terrain and water area where you will be fishing the most. Note that if there is a lot of vegetation or rocky obstacles, make Texas rig your choice, and if you are going to open water with less vegetation, consider Carolina rigs. Let's get to know them better below.

• Texas Rig: This type of rig is a popular choice because it is multi-functional and versatile and leaves possibilities for use in various water areas. It consists of a lead placed on the string in front of the bait, mainly in the form of a worm or wobbler. Such a construction ensures that the checkerboard floats freely on the water's surface.

• Carolina Rig: This rig is often used for topwater fishing techniques. Similar to Texas rigs, it contains a lead placed on the line in front of the bait, but with a longer line and float. Thus, it allows the bait a greater range of movement with a different rhythm.

• Wacky Rig: The Wacky Rig is simple but very effective, mainly when used with plastics such as worms or crabs. The bait has a hook in the middle, allowing the topwater bait to have a better and more natural presentation.

• Buzzbait Rig: Specially designed for water fishing because it creates intense noise and waves on the water's surface. They make it with a metal frame with a rotating propeller and a three-pronged hook, and when pulled, the rotating propeller creates sound and water waves.

Be sure to match the rig type with the bait you use. So the Wacky rig will work best for light plastic worms, while the Buzzbait rig works best with lures that can make noise and waves.

Hooks

The choice of the hook must follow bait size and the fish's behavior and features. If you use those that tend to tangle a lot, like frogs or lures with large floats, choosing single-leg hooks with curved tips can help in such situations. However, we suggest that you have as many copies of the following hooks as possible.

• Treble Hooks: These hooks are most commonly used for topwater fishing because they effectively hold fish. They provide stability and reliability, especially when fishing for fish such as Bass and Pike. They are excellent for baits such as poppers and buzz bait because the hook must capture the fish from several directions.

• Single Leg Hooks: Also known as "worm hooks," they are popular for baits like frogs and wobblers. They can be placed very easily and ensure good contact with the fish and allow the bait to move naturally on the surface of the water.

• Inline Hooks: These hooks are often used for baits such as wobblers and swimming worms. Their design allows the bait to move in a natural direction. They help achieve the bait's correct action and reduce the tangles percentage when casting or retrieving.

• Jig Hooks: Jig hooks are specifically designed for use with jigs and similar baits. They are robust and often have a wide opening that allows better control and holding of the bait. In topwater fishing, jig hooks can be helpful to for lures that make big waves and noise on the surface.

Hooks are easy consumables, so it is important to check them regularly and take care of them. Sharpening can improve efficiency and reduce the number of misses.

Essential Baits and Lures for Topwater Fishing

Topwater fishing bait lures are different, depending on whether you fish in fresh or saltwater, and they are further adapted to the type of water, weather conditions, and type of fish. Here's a quick guide to the most effective saltwater and freshwater baits and lures for topwater action.

Saltwater 

In saltwater, it is good to focus your topwater performance on bait such as buzz bait and poppers with intense sounds and options to create frenetic waves. These baits will also create noise that can attract large predators, such as Tuna.

• Buzzbait: If you have set your sights on large marine predators, you can even catch them with the help of this technique and buzz bait lures. They are highly effective in attracting aggressive predators such as Tuna and Marlin, where the rotating propeller creates an intense sound and waves that attract fish from far and deep.

• Poppers: Poppers are also an excellent choice for saltwater, as they are used to catch Bonefish and Snook. They create sound and waves that attract fish from the surface and can be found in different colors and sizes that you can adapt to your fishing conditions.

• Walking Lures: They are very effective in saltwater for attracting premium fish such as Bonefish and Permit. They imitate the natural movements of swimmers and can be successful in different colors and designs.

• Frogs: Although shaped like frogs, they are specifically designed for saltwater but can be successful in areas with large vegetation or mangroves.

In salt water, make sure that the baits are made of materials resistant to corrosion and salt water. That way, your lures will last longer, which means additional savings.

Freshwater

Freshwater areas tend to be more turbulent and not so easily predictable, than those in seas and oceans, so always keep that difference in mind when choosing lures for river or lake fishing.

• Poppers: In freshwater areas, poppers are mainly used for Bass and Pike fishing. They create a characteristic sound and waves on the surface, which can attract fish from the depths. You will find them in different sizes and colors, which allows adaptation to specific fishing conditions and the mood of the fish.

• Frogs: Frog-shaped lures are mainly for freshwater rich with vegetation. Designed to mimic the movements of real frogs, they move through growth without tangling, making them an excellent choice for heavily vegetated water

• Walking Baits: Will attract typical surface fishing species such as Bass and Crappies. They perfectly imitate swimmers' movements, making them attractive to fish in the water's upper layers. You can find them in different colors and sizes, and easily adaptable.

Remember that your fishing skill is the crucial ingredient for making baits look alive and that the baits are the essence of this technique. A faster retrieve can stimulate aggressive reactions in fish in an active phase, while a slower retrieve intrigues fish that are less active or in the process of feeding.

Where to Go Topwater Fishing

Although there are no hard and fast rules about where to apply this technique, certain conditions and locations can significantly improve the chances of a better-quality catch.

Lakes and Reservoirs

Lakes and reservoirs are ideal places for topwater fishing, as most have a lot of vegetation and areas with calm waters and shallow areas. Water grass, lilies, or other types of vegetation visible on the surface create a natural habitat for predators and their prey. In such environments, baits such as frogs and poppers are chosen because they attract fish that hunt in the upper layers of the water.

Rivers and Streams

Your focus should be on slow-moving areas and sheltered places such as sinkholes, branches, and rocks in rivers and streams. Rivers and streams often have faster currents that slow down in certain areas, and this is where fish are mostly found hiding from the faster currents and using the surrounding areas as hunting grounds.

Mangroves and Estuaries

Mangroves and estuaries are often places where fresh and saltwater meet and, places of unusual and lush vegetation. These ecosystems provide rich food and shelter for fish, and you can find large and healthy specimens of the various species that these waters breed. Topwater lures such as poppers and walking baits can be your base for exploring these complex and fertile environments.

Coasts and Breakwaters

These are some of the more straightforward locations for topwater fishing, and you can also explore them and look for your ideal fishing spot. Find those places and areas where the waves break or where there is a small rock or coral reef because there is a high probability that these are the places where you can meet both smaller and larger predators. The topwater technique can effectively imitate prey in these conditions, especially in the early morning or before sunset.

Shallow Bays and Coves

If you are one of those anglers who like to combine their vacation with fishing, the shallow bays and coves are great places for the ultimate adventure, especially during the warm months. Locate on surface structures or rocks that obstruct the flow of water, as this is where shallow waters heat up quickly, which increases fish activity. With good presentation, topwater baits will attract fish active in this warm layer of water, often from greater depths.

Specific Topwater Techniques 

Water surfaces can really be the perfect playground for presentations of different baits, manipulation, and experimentation – all with the aim of creating a show that will entice suspicious, shy, and aggressive fish to bite!

Retrieve Technique

A fast retrieve is a strategy that involves the use and pulling of lures such as buzz bait and poppers. They are created in such a way that they make strong vibrations and an intense sound that disturbs the water's surface. 

With a quick pull on the water, a natural little spectacle is created that can attract aggressive species in the active feeding phase. The opposite option, or a slower retrieve, can be effective in cooler waters or when the fish show less interest.

Prey Imitation

For this approach, it is best to use lures that are primarily designed to mimic prey in distress by producing a distinctive sound and ripple on the surface. This is primarily bait such as poppers and chuggers that perfectly imitate wounded or panicked prey, which will intrigue predators who are looking for an easy meal. 

You can also use walking lures, creating the natural movements of swimmers and imitating fish or insects on the surface.

"Pause and Go"

The "Pause and Go" technique is precisely what it says, rhythmically pulling the bait and then taking a short break. It can mimic prey in distress or wounded, which can be very effective in attracting fish waiting for an opportunity to strike.

It is best to pause and go to places with rich vegetation, submerged trees, and where you know that fish are hiding. In this way, you will slightly hypnotize them and, with a bit of luck, lure them out of hiding.

"Walk the Dog"

As the name suggests, "Walk the Dog" involves rhythmically pulling the lure in a pattern reminiscent of a dog walking, only on the surface of the water. You will need types such as walking lures that create seductive and playful movements on the surface. 

Adjusting the speed and intensity of movement can boost the effectiveness of the technique because fish react to different styles of movement and speed.

Final Thoughts 

Topwater fishing is discreet and a very subtle technique. It is accessible to everyone but it is special enough to never be boring. Very playful, with all those powerful colorful and vibrating lures, it offers its own special charm and can lead to more than solid catches!

Now it's your turn! Tell us what you think about topwater fishing, and share your stories, experiences, and tips in the comments below. Your information can help other anglers improve their skills, too! Thanks for joining this adventure, and happy fishing!