Post-Spawn Topwater Popper Patterns & Techniques

A majority of anglers will agree that there is no more exciting technique for chasing fish than topwater, and throwing a Popper for Post-Spawn bass is no exception. The dynamic visual explosions are enough to turn any casual angler into a topwater addict. Not only is it an incredibly effective way to mimic a shad busting on the surface, but it is also a great method to simply irritate a bass into lashing out at your bait perched temptingly on the water’s surface.

A 7’ – 7’3 Medium or Medium Heavy casting rod with a Fast tip is critical for imparting the correct action to your popper. It will also allow you to cast the bait a long way with accuracy, especially those that fall into the lighter side of the spectrum. A Moderate bend is also extremely important to prevent ripping out the tiny treble hooks once you have one on the line, especially when you are using braid. Consider a rod with a smaller handle to better accommodate quick repetitive twitches without constantly bumping or rubbing your elbow. Finesse Poppers may necessitate the use of a similarly rated spinning rod.

Using a compact reel, such as a size 70, will help you throw some lightweight Poppers farther and with less effort, however, most standard size casting reels in the 100- to 200-size are also ideal for this technique. Any casting reel sporting a 6.9:1 to 7.6:1 gear ratio will allow you to work the bait properly. A reel in that range will allow you to pick up slack line between pops quickly but won't be so fast that you overwork the bait. If you find yourself in a situation that calls for ultra-finesse Poppers, hitting the water with a 3000-size spinning reel will be necessary.

You can use a similar setup to your Topwater Walking Baits here, taking care to stick with a floating line type such as braid or mono. Start by spooling up your favorite 30 to 50lb braid. If you are using a rod that is on the stiff side, or perhaps find your hooks continually tangling with your line, adding a topshot of monofilament from 15 to 20lb can add some shock absorption while also keeping your hooks clear of your limp braided line.

Having quality hooks ready to grab any curious bass that takes a swing at your Popper is crucial. Arm your bait with razor-sharp round bend treble hooks, preferably with a feather-dressed option in the rear, which not only adds another layer of attraction but can also act as a braking system for your Popper. Some anglers also prefer to add a red treble hook at the front of the bait as a ‘strike point’ for the big bass lurking below. Lastly, adding a snap on the front of your bait allows you to switch between colors, sizes, and styles of Poppers quickly without having to retie each time.

There are many ways to work a Popper and finding the right cadence can be the difference between setting a new personal best or going home skunked. You can impart big bloops or little bloops. You can pop it fast, slow, or with a mix of the two. Sometimes you have to be painfully patient, letting the Popper soak in place to simply irritate a big female into lashing out at your bait. You can almost envision this technique as trying to convince a cat to pounce on a toy.

Some of the most common and effective colors for a Popper are White or Shad patterns, Bluegill patterns, and even Black. It can sometimes be productive to utilize a Popper that features a splash of Chartreuse or Orange on the belly or throat, so don’t be shy about experimenting until you find the color that matches the conditions and temperament of the fish.

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