Fishing is one of the most enjoyable and rewarding activities that families can enjoy together. It teaches patience, builds skills, and helps children connect with nature. When it comes to introducing kids to fishing, choosing the right fishing lure is crucial for creating an enjoyable experience. One of the best types of fishing lures for young anglers, especially for freshwater lake fishing, is the topwater fishing lure.
Topwater lures are exciting, easy to use, and provide a great visual experience as kids can see the fish strike right on the water’s surface. In this guide, we will explore why durable topwater fishing lures are ideal for kids, how they can be used effectively in lakes, and which lures are best for young anglers. By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly what to look for in a topwater fishing lure for kids and where to buy them.
What Are Topwater Fishing Lures?
Topwater fishing lures are designed to float on the surface of the water, mimicking the movements of prey that fish would typically target. These lures can create splashes, ripples, or subtle movements that attract fish. The key feature of topwater lures is their ability to remain on the water’s surface, which allows anglers to see the action as fish strike the lure. This makes topwater lures an exciting option, especially for beginners and kids.
Types of Topwater Fishing Lures
There are several types of topwater lures, each designed to produce different types of action on the water. Here are the most popular types of topwater lures that are perfect for kids:
- Poppers
Poppers are lures with a concave front that creates a popping sound when retrieved. This loud noise and splash mimic struggling prey, which attracts fish like bass and trout. They are easy for kids to use, as they only require a simple popping motion with the rod. - Walking Baits (Walk-the-Dog)
These lures are designed to move side to side on the water’s surface, mimicking the motion of a fish swimming. Walking baits are great for teaching kids how to make subtle movements with their fishing rods while keeping the lure on the surface. - Frog Lures
Frog lures are often used in areas with dense vegetation or lily pads. These lures mimic the movement of frogs or other small animals, which are commonly prey for many freshwater fish. Frog lures are perfect for young anglers who are fishing in weedy lakes. - Buzzbaits
Buzzbaits are unique topwater lures that create a buzzing sound as they are retrieved. This action is great for attracting fish in murky waters or during low-light conditions. Buzzbaits are simple to use and ideal for kids who are learning to fish in a variety of environments.
Why Topwater Lures Are Ideal for Kids
Introducing kids to fishing can be a fun and rewarding experience, and topwater lures make the learning process more exciting and accessible. Here’s why they are a great choice for young anglers:
1. Exciting Visual Action
One of the most thrilling aspects of topwater fishing is watching fish strike the lure right on the surface. Kids can visually see the fish approaching and attacking the lure, which makes the experience more engaging. The instant reaction from a fish can spark excitement and keep kids motivated throughout the fishing trip.
2. Simple Retrieval Techniques
Topwater lures are easy to use, making them perfect for kids who are just starting out. For example, poppers only require a simple jerking motion, while walking baits need a steady, rhythmic retrieve. These straightforward techniques allow kids to focus on the fun of fishing without worrying about complex movements or tactics.
3. Durable and Low Maintenance
Durability is key when it comes to fishing lures for kids. Children may not always handle their gear with care, and accidents can happen. Durable topwater fishing lures are built to last through rough handling, making them ideal for young anglers who are still learning the ropes. Whether it’s getting snagged on branches or accidentally dropped in the water, a durable lure will continue to perform without breaking easily.
4. Effective in Shallow Waters
Freshwater lakes typically have many shallow areas, especially near the shore. Topwater lures are perfect for these types of conditions. They are designed to float and move along the water’s surface, attracting fish in areas where many other lures would not be effective. This makes topwater fishing perfect for kids fishing in lakes with shallow waters, as the fish tend to be more concentrated near the surface.
5. Teaches Patience and Focus
Fishing in itself is a great way to teach kids patience and focus. With topwater lures, kids can see the results of their efforts in real-time as they wait for the fish to strike. The process of casting, retrieving, and waiting builds their patience and teaches them the value of perseverance in a fun environment.
How to Use Topwater Fishing Lures Effectively
Using topwater lures for the first time can be a learning experience for both kids and adults. Here are some tips and techniques to help young anglers make the most of their topwater fishing lures:
1. Choosing the Right Lure
The first step in setting up a successful fishing experience is selecting the right topwater lure for the specific environment and target species. For kids fishing in lakes, a good choice is a smaller popper or walking bait that’s easy to cast and retrieve.
- For Bass: Smaller poppers or walking baits in natural colors (such as white, silver, or shad) are great for attracting bass in lakes.
- For Trout: Trout are often attracted to smaller, more subtle lures. A small popper or a gentle walking bait works well in clear, calm waters.
- For Weedy Areas: Frog lures are perfect for areas with a lot of vegetation, as they can easily glide over lily pads and other obstacles.
2. Casting Techniques
Casting is an important skill for any angler, and it’s something kids will need to practice. For beginners, it’s best to start by casting short distances near the shore, focusing on areas where fish are likely to be feeding. A simple overhand cast will work fine for topwater lures. Kids should aim to cast the lure into open water or near structures like fallen trees or rocks.
Tip: If casting from a boat, make sure the children are always seated and safe before they cast their lures.
3. Retrieval Techniques
Once the lure hits the water, it’s time to retrieve it. Here are the basic retrieval techniques for each type of topwater lure:
- Poppers: Use quick, jerky motions to make the lure “pop” on the water’s surface. Pause for a moment after each jerk to give the fish time to strike.
- Walking Baits: Use a rhythmic, side-to-side motion with the rod to make the bait move like a wounded fish. A steady retrieve works best here.
- Frog Lures: Simply reel in the frog slowly, making sure it stays near the surface and glides over the water.
- Buzzbaits: Retrieve quickly to make the lure buzz on the surface. Buzzbaits are especially effective in low-light conditions or when the water is murky.
4. Be Patient
One of the key things kids need to learn when fishing is patience. If the fish don’t bite right away, encourage them to keep trying. Sometimes the fish might be more active at different times of the day, so it’s important to stay patient and persistent.
5. Safety and Comfort
Fishing can take a while, so make sure kids are dressed appropriately for the weather. Always remind them to wear sunscreen, a hat, and a life jacket if they’re near the water. Staying comfortable and safe is essential for keeping kids engaged in the activity.
Why Choose Lurebolt for Topwater Fishing Lures for Kids?
When it comes to finding durable topwater fishing lures for kids, Lurebolt offers high-quality options that are perfect for young anglers. Our lures are specifically designed to be easy to use, durable, and effective, making them the perfect choice for introducing kids to the sport of fishing.
Here’s why you should choose Lurebolt for your fishing needs:
- Durable Materials: Lurebolt’s topwater lures are made from high-quality, long-lasting materials that can withstand rough handling by young anglers.
- Easy to Use: Our lures are designed with simplicity in mind, making them perfect for beginners and kids who are just starting out.
- Wide Selection: We offer a variety of topwater lures, including poppers, walkers, and frog lures, all designed to perform well in freshwater lakes.
- Affordable: Lurebolt’s lures offer great value for money, so you don’t have to spend a fortune to get top-quality fishing gear.
Conclusion
Topwater fishing lures are the perfect way to introduce kids to the world of fishing. Their simple yet exciting action makes them ideal for young anglers, while their durability ensures they can withstand the rough handling that often comes with kids learning the ropes. Whether you’re fishing in a lake or pond, topwater lures provide an exciting and rewarding experience for kids of all ages.
For high-quality, durable topwater fishing lures for kids, visit Lurebolt.com. Our lures are crafted to ensure the best fishing experience for young anglers, making them the perfect choice for your next family fishing trip.