How to Master A Topwater Lure
The quickest way to become a master of popping and chugging? Fish a lure called a torpedo or Pop-R. Do not be afraid to use these spitting fishing lures all season long and at various time of the day, But the best time to work these lures on the surface is during a cool, beautiful sunrise and when the heat begins to subside in the cool breeze of the evening.
I keep one rod and reel set up for topwater at all times. Even during the heat of the day and when the water is choppy, just let a cloud cover the sun for a split second and the bass are looking up at the surface. Toss the lure next to structure and be prepared to set the hook. When the sun is uncovered switch back to your worm or whatever you were using. I have amazed my fishing buddies every time using the cloud cover topwater lure routine.
On a lake let the lure rest after a cast until the wake of the lure hitting the water has subsided. Then start working the lure in short jerks of 4 inch moves. I always start with 3 short jerks and rest, then 3 short jerks and rest. The fish hit the lure on the pause, not on the retrieve, If I'm not having any luck I adjust the jerk pattern.
On a stream I start the retrieve as soon as the lure hits the water. Faster retrieves work well on streams, just my observation.
Nothing beats the thrill of a fish hitting a topwater lure. If the fish misses the lure, cast in the same spot again. There is a very good chance that the fish will hit again.
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