Summer is the perfect time for bass fishing, and one of the most exciting ways to target these fish is by using topwater lures. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. That's why I've compiled a list of the top 15 best topwater lures for summer bass in 2022. These lures have proven to be effective in my personal experience and are highly recommended by other experienced anglers.
What to Look for in a Topwater Lure
Before diving into the list, it's essential to know what to look for in a topwater lure. The following factors are crucial to consider when choosing the right lure for your fishing needs:
Size and Weight
The lure's size and weight should match the size of the bass you're targeting. A smaller lure is better suited for smallmouth bass, while a larger lure is ideal for catching largemouth bass. Keep in mind that the size and weight of the lure will also determine how far it can be cast.
Color
The color of the lure should mimic the color of the baitfish in the water. Natural colors like silver, gold, and brown are great choices for clear water, while brighter colors like chartreuse and yellow are better for murky water. It's also important to consider the time of day and the amount of light when choosing a lure color.
Action
The action of the lure should mimic the movement of the baitfish. A topwater lure that creates a realistic swimming motion will attract more fish. Some topwater lures have a "walk the dog" action, while others have a popping or buzzing action. It's important to choose a lure with an action that matches the fishing conditions.
Noise
Some topwater lures are designed to make noise, which can attract fish from a distance. Lures with rattles or propellers are great options for creating noise. The noise level should be appropriate for the fishing conditions. In clear water, a quieter lure may be more effective, while in murky water, a louder lure may be necessary.
Durability
Topwater lures can take a beating, especially if you're catching a lot of fish. Look for lures made with durable materials that can withstand the wear and tear of fishing. It's also important to check the hooks and split rings to ensure they are strong enough to handle the fish you're targeting.
The Top 15 Best Topwater Lures for Summer Bass
Without further ado, here are the top 15 best topwater lures for summer bass in 2022:
- Heddon Super Spook Jr.
The Heddon Super Spook Jr. is a classic topwater lure that has been around for over 75 years. It's a smaller version of the original Super Spook, making it perfect for targeting smallmouth bass. The lure's realistic action and natural color make it a favorite among anglers.
- Rapala Skitter V
The Rapala Skitter V is a versatile topwater lure that can be used in a variety of fishing conditions. Its unique design creates a realistic swimming motion that mimics a fleeing baitfish. The Skitter V comes in a variety of colors, making it easy to match the hatch.
- Strike King KVD Sexy Dawg
The Strike King KVD Sexy Dawg is a topwater lure designed by professional bass angler Kevin VanDam. Its realistic action and loud rattles make it an excellent choice for targeting aggressive largemouth bass. The lure comes in a variety of colors, including a clear version, which is perfect for clear water.
- Rebel Pop-R
The Rebel Pop-R is a classic topwater lure that has been a favorite among anglers for decades. Its realistic popping action mimics a baitfish struggling on the surface, making it irresistible to hungry bass. The Pop-R comes in a variety of colors, including a clear version, which is perfect for clear water.
- Booyah Pad Crasher
The Booyah Pad Crasher is a topwater frog lure that is perfect for fishing in heavy cover. Its weedless design allows it to be fished in places other lures can't, making it a great choice for targeting largemouth bass in shallow water. The lure comes in a variety of colors, including a natural frog pattern.
- Rebel Wee-Crawfish
The Rebel Wee-Crawfish is a topwater lure that mimics a crawfish, a favorite food of bass. Its realistic action and natural color make it a great choice for targeting smallmouth bass in clear water. The Wee-Crawfish is also a great option for fishing in rocky areas.
- Heddon Zara Spook
The Heddon Zara Spook is a classic topwater lure that has been around for over 75 years. Its unique "walk the dog" action creates a realistic swimming motion that mimics a baitfish. The Zara Spook comes in a variety of colors, including a clear version, which is perfect for clear water.
- Strike King KVD Splash
The Strike King KVD Splash is a topwater lure designed by professional bass angler Kevin VanDam. Its unique design creates a realistic walking motion that mimics a baitfish. The Splash comes in a variety of colors, including a clear version, which is perfect for clear water.
- Whopper Plopper
The Whopper Plopper is a topwater lure with a unique design that creates a realistic swimming motion. Its propeller creates a loud noise that can attract fish from a distance. The Whopper Plopper comes in a variety of colors, including a natural frog pattern.
- Booyah Buzz
The Booyah Buzz is a topwater lure with a unique design that creates a loud buzzing noise. Its realistic action and noise make it a great choice for targeting aggressive largemouth bass. The Buzz comes in a variety of colors, including a clear version, which is perfect for clear water.
- Strike King Sexy Dawg Jr.
The Strike King Sexy Dawg Jr. is a smaller version of the KVD Sexy Dawg. Its realistic action and loud rattles make it an excellent choice for targeting aggressive smallmouth bass. The lure comes in a variety of colors, including a natural frog pattern.
- Livingston Lures Walking Boss
The Livingston Lures Walking Boss is a topwater lure with a unique design that creates a realistic walking motion. Its built-in rattles create a loud noise that can attract fish from a distance. The Walking Boss comes in a variety of colors, including a natural frog pattern.
- Booyah Toadrunner
The Booyah Toadrunner is a topwater frog lure that is perfect for fishing in heavy cover. Its unique design allows it to be fished on top of the water or just below the surface, making it a great choice for targeting largemouth bass in shallow water. The lure comes in a variety of colors, including a natural frog pattern.
- Rapala X-Rap Pop
The Rapala X-Rap Pop is a topwater lure with a unique design that creates a realistic popping action. Its natural color and realistic action make it a great choice for targeting smallmouth bass in clear water. The X-Rap Pop comes in a variety of colors, including a natural frog pattern.
- Rebel Lures Buzz'n Frog
The Rebel Lures Buzz'n Frog is a topwater frog lure with a unique design that creates a loud buzzing noise. Its weedless design allows it to be fished in places other lures can't, making it a great choice for targeting largemouth bass in heavy cover. The Buzz'n Frog comes in a variety of colors, including a natural frog pattern.
Conclusion
Choosing the right topwater lure for summer bass fishing can be overwhelming, but with these 15 options, you can't go wrong. Remember to consider the size and weight, color, action, noise, and durability when choosing a lure. And always make sure to have a variety of lures in your tackle box to match the fishing conditions.
In addition to the factors mentioned above, it's also important to consider the body of water you'll be fishing. If you're fishing in a lake with lots of weeds and vegetation, a weedless lure like the Booyah Pad Crasher or Booyah Toadrunner may be the best option. If you're fishing in a river with fast-moving water, a lure with a strong action like the Rapala Skitter V or Strike King KVD Splash may be more effective.
It's also important to note that different lures may be more effective at different times of the year. In the early summer, when the water is still cool, smaller lures like the Heddon Super Spook Jr. may be more effective. As the water warms up, larger lures like the Whopper Plopper or Strike King KVD Sexy Dawg may be a better choice.
Ultimately, the best way to determine which lure is right for you is to experiment. Try different lures and techniques until you find what works best for you. And remember, fishing is about having fun and enjoying the outdoors, so don't get too caught up in the details. Happy fishing!