FISHING: Try topwater lures for bass fishing fun | Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette

FISHING guidance highlights topwater lures designed to trigger summer bass strikes, emphasizing how surface action creates aggressive reactions. The article explains that topwater lures are artificial baits that operate on the water’s surface, with most modern options made of plastic and built to displace water and make noise. It outlines the “popper” configuration as a common traditional design, with a wide, concave face, a tapered body, and a treble hook often fitted with a Mylar skirt resembling a shad or minnow. It says retrieving with sharp rod jerks drives a popping, thudding sound and throws water ahead, which attracts predators including largemouth bass, white bass, and white bass/striped bass hybrids. The article recommends using either slow, methodical retrieves or rapid, frantic ones if the fish ignore the slower approach. It also stresses patience at the strike, advising anglers to wait a second or two after seeing a depth-charge hit before setting the hook. It further describes propeller baits like Smithwick’s Devil’s Horse and Whopper Plopper, and cigar-style baits such as Zara Spook, plus a “Boing!” model with a titanium arm and metal bead.