Bass fishing in rivers can be one of the most thrilling experiences for anglers. The challenge of landing a powerful, elusive bass, combined with the beauty of fishing in nature’s dynamic environments, makes it an activity that’s both rewarding and exciting. One of the most effective and engaging tools for catching bass in rivers is the topwater fishing lure, particularly handmade lures, which are often crafted with superior attention to detail and lifelike action.
In this guide, we’ll delve into everything you need to know about using handmade topwater fishing lures for bass in rivers. From selecting the right lure to understanding the techniques that will yield the best results, we’ll cover it all to help you enhance your fishing experience.
Why Handmade Topwater Fishing Lures Are Great for Bass in Rivers
Topwater fishing lures are designed to float on the surface of the water, mimicking the movement of injured or struggling prey. For bass, these lures are irresistible, especially when fished in the right conditions. Handmade lures, in particular, have the edge because they tend to offer higher quality craftsmanship, unique designs, and realistic action. Here are some reasons why handmade topwater lures are ideal for bass fishing in rivers:
1. Realistic Action
Handmade topwater lures are often finely crafted to replicate the movement of real prey, such as small fish, frogs, or insects. The more lifelike the action, the more likely bass will be drawn to the lure. These lures are designed to move erratically on the water’s surface, simulating the behavior of struggling or fleeing prey, which is an irresistible signal for predatory bass.
2. Durability and Quality Craftsmanship
Handmade lures are typically crafted from higher-quality materials than mass-produced lures. The attention to detail ensures they are durable, long-lasting, and able to withstand the wear and tear of fishing in rugged river environments. Many handmade lures are built with custom finishes, stronger hooks, and better balance, leading to superior performance on the water.
3. Unique Designs and Customization
Handmade topwater lures often come in unique designs that make them stand out from the standard, mass-produced options. These lures can be customized to feature various color patterns, sizes, and finishes that mimic the natural prey in your fishing environment. For example, lures made to look like local baitfish or frogs can increase your chances of attracting bass, as they closely resemble the natural food sources in the river.
4. Attracts Bigger Bass
Because of their lifelike appearance and superior movement, handmade topwater lures are excellent at attracting larger bass. Big bass tend to be more selective and wary of artificial lures, but a well-designed topwater lure can trick them into attacking. The splash, noise, and realistic movement created by topwater lures often draw the attention of bigger fish.
5. Visual and Auditory Appeal
The surface strikes of topwater lures are incredibly exciting to witness. When a bass strikes a topwater lure, it often creates a large splash or commotion on the water’s surface. This not only provides an adrenaline rush for the angler but also serves as a visual cue that the lure is working effectively. Handmade topwater lures typically offer more detailed and realistic splashes, enhancing the excitement of fishing.
Types of Handmade Topwater Lures for Bass in Rivers
There are various types of handmade topwater fishing lures, each designed to create different types of surface disturbances. Understanding the unique characteristics of each type will help you choose the best lure for your fishing conditions and bass behavior.
1. Poppers
Popper lures are one of the most popular types of topwater lures for bass. They have a concave face that creates a popping sound when retrieved. This action mimics a struggling prey animal, such as a small fish or insect, which attracts bass from a distance.
Best For:
- Shallow waters with moderate to slow currents.
- Targeting bass near the surface in the morning or evening.
Advantages:
- Creates loud, attention-grabbing splashes.
- Ideal for fishing in calm waters or when bass are feeding near the surface.
- Perfect for beginners as they are easy to use.
Handmade Example:
- Lurebolt Handmade Poppers: These lures feature intricate designs and natural finishes, making them a great choice for clear water fishing.
2. Walking Baits (Walk-the-Dog Lures)
Walking baits have a unique “walk-the-dog” action, where the lure moves side to side in a rhythmic fashion. This mimics a distressed fish or fleeing prey, making it irresistible to bass. The side-to-side action is ideal for targeting bass that are actively hunting near the surface.
Best For:
- Active bass that are feeding aggressively near the surface.
- Calm to slightly choppy water conditions.
Advantages:
- Produces an extremely lifelike swimming motion.
- Excellent for attracting larger bass.
- Can be retrieved at different speeds to match fish behavior.
Handmade Example:
- Lurebolt Handmade Walking Lures: Known for their natural movement and color variety, these lures are perfect for enticing active bass.
3. Buzzbaits
Buzzbaits create a lot of noise and vibration by using a rotating blade that cuts through the water’s surface. This disturbance mimics a struggling or wounded fish, drawing bass from a distance. Buzzbaits work exceptionally well in murky waters or areas with heavy vegetation.
Best For:
- Weedy or murky rivers with a lot of vegetation.
- Fishing in warmer weather when bass are more active and aggressive.
Advantages:
- Creates a loud buzzing sound and surface disturbance.
- Great for fishing in thick cover or murky waters.
- Effective for attracting both small and large bass.
Handmade Example:
- Lurebolt Handmade Buzzbaits: These buzzbaits are built with durable blades and custom finishes for superior performance in challenging environments.
4. Frog Lures
Frog lures are designed to mimic the movement of frogs or amphibians on the water’s surface. They are often used in areas with thick vegetation or lily pads where bass are likely to be hiding. Frog lures are excellent for triggering explosive strikes from bass.
Best For:
- Weedy, shallow rivers or areas with lily pads and submerged cover.
- Targeting bass in areas with dense vegetation.
Advantages:
- Great for fishing in dense cover without getting snagged.
- Provides an exciting strike when bass attack the frog.
- Ideal for targeting bass hiding in vegetation.
Handmade Example:
- Lurebolt Handmade Frog Lures: These lures feature high-quality, realistic finishes and lifelike movement, perfect for fishing around thick cover.
5. Prop Baits
Prop baits feature a rotating propeller at either the front or back of the lure. This action creates a distinct churning sound and wake on the water’s surface, which attracts bass. Prop baits work well in calm waters or during low-light conditions when bass are more likely to be feeding near the surface.
Best For:
- Clear water where bass can clearly see the lure’s movement.
- Low-light conditions such as early mornings or late evenings.
Advantages:
- Creates a unique “churning” action that bass find irresistible.
- Great for calm or slightly choppy water.
- Effective in low-light conditions.
Handmade Example:
- Lurebolt Handmade Prop Baits: Crafted to produce a realistic churning action, these baits are perfect for clear water and low-light fishing conditions.
How to Use Handmade Topwater Lures for Bass in Rivers
Using handmade topwater fishing lures for bass in rivers is relatively simple but requires some technique to make the most of these lures. Here are some steps and tips to help you succeed:
1. Select the Right Lure
Choose a lure based on the water conditions, time of day, and bass behavior:
- Clear, calm water: Use walking baits or prop baits.
- Murky or weedy areas: Opt for buzzbaits or frog lures.
- Shallow, still water: Use poppers or walking baits.
2. Rigging the Lure
For handmade topwater lures, rigging is usually straightforward. Popper lures, walking baits, and buzzbaits come ready to fish with hooks attached. For frog lures, make sure to use a weedless hook to avoid snags in thick vegetation.
3. Casting and Retrieve
Cast your lure to areas where bass are likely to be hiding, such as near submerged rocks, fallen trees, or weed beds. Depending on the type of lure:
- Poppers: Use short, sharp jerks to create a popping action.
- Walking baits: Use a slow, rhythmic retrieve to make the lure move side to side.
- Buzzbaits: Keep a steady retrieve to maintain the buzz and vibration.
- Frog lures: Use short jerks to make the frog dart across the surface, imitating a fleeing prey.
4. Observe Strikes
Topwater fishing provides immediate visual feedback when a fish strikes. When you see or feel a bite, wait a moment before setting the hook to ensure the bass has fully taken the lure. Then, pull back firmly to secure the hook.
5. Experiment with Speed and Depth
Bass can be picky, so don’t be afraid to experiment with the speed and depth of your retrieve. If bass aren’t responding, try speeding up or slowing down the retrieval to see if that triggers a bite.
Conclusion
Handmade topwater fishing lures are a fantastic choice for bass fishing in rivers, providing lifelike action and attracting fish with their natural movement. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, these lures can help you land bass while enjoying the thrill of surface strikes.
At Lurebolt.com, we offer a wide selection of handmade topwater fishing lures, including poppers, walking baits, buzzbaits, frog lures, and prop baits. Our lures are crafted with attention to detail, ensuring superior performance on the water.
Visit Lurebolt.com today to explore our collection of handmade topwater lures and other high-quality fishing gear to elevate your bass fishing experience.
By following these techniques and using high-quality handmade lures, you’ll be able to improve your bass fishing success in rivers. For the best topwater lures and gear, visit Lurebolt.com.