I would say I have the most confidence when using surface poppers compared to any other hard baits. I will use these from spring until the end of fall without hesitation. Why? It drives the bass crazy.
Surface poppers are lures with a flat or concave face that create a lot of disturbance on the surface of the water. To create this surface disruption you have to use the correct technique. When you do it properly, it makes a popping sound on the top of the water and resembles an injured fish or something like a cicada.
In this article, we’re going to go over the specifics of how to use a surface popper for bass fishing.
Gear Setup For Topwater Poppers
For fishing surface poppers, you’ll want to use a fast or extra-fast action rod. Personally, I like to pair this with a medium power. This type of rod gives you a good amount of control, strength, and action to properly move the bait on the surface. The presentation you give is the foundation of this type of bait. With a poor presentation, the fish will be disinterested.
Technique Matters
As we briefly mentioned above, when you use a surface popper, you don’t want to just let it sit there or do a street retrieve like a crankbait. After casting, let it sit for just a few seconds. Then with your rod pointed slightly to your right or left (depending on which way you reel) use a controlled twitch with your rod tip as if. Think of it like you put a dollar on a line to trick people and are moving it away when they go to pick it up. Doing this makes the popper dive briefly and create a splash, while also making a plopping or popping sound.
Adjust your frequency and intensity as needed if you aren’t getting bites. I like to start with two twitches with no pause in between, followed by a short pause, then repeat. Twitch-twitch, pause, twitch-twitch, pause. When a bass hits your lure allow them to take it underwater before you set the hook.
Timing and Location
Where and when to use a surface popper matters too. Early morning or late evening, when the water is calm, are prime times. During this time the bass are more likely to be hunting in shallow water. Focus on areas with structure or cover, like weed beds, logs, or rock formations. Fallen trees are a great place to use these.