Why the Wopper Plopper is a Topwater Fishing Essential
In the world of bass fishing, there are a few lures that truly stand out for their effectiveness and unique action. The Wopper Plopper is undoubtedly one of them. This topwater lure has taken the fishing world by storm, thanks to its distinct design and the incredible action it produces on the surface. With its rotating tail and loud “plopping” sound, the Wopper Plopper mimics the distress of an injured fish, which is an irresistible signal for bass and other predatory fish.
If you’re looking to improve your topwater fishing success, understanding how to fish with the Wopper Plopper can make a significant difference. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the Wopper Plopper, from how it works, to when to use it, to the best techniques for maximizing your catch rate.
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1. What Makes the Wopper Plopper So Effective?
The Wopper Plopper has earned its reputation as one of the most effective topwater lures due to its unique design and action. Let’s take a closer look at why this lure works so well for catching bass and other surface-feeding predators.
1.1 The Rotating Tail Action
At the core of the Wopper Plopper’s success is its rotating tail. The tail’s propeller-like design creates a loud “plopping” sound when retrieved, which simulates the splashing of an injured or struggling fish. This noise is highly effective in attracting bass, even from a distance.
- Why it works: The “plop” sound mimics the noise made by prey struggling on the water’s surface, which is a signal to bass that food is nearby. This makes the Wopper Plopper an excellent choice for topwater fishing, as it actively engages the bass with both noise and motion.
1.2 Wake and Splash on the Surface
The Wopper Plopper also produces a subtle wake as it moves through the water. This helps increase visibility for bass, making it easier for them to track the lure, especially in murky or stained water. The wake that the lure creates as it plops along the surface mimics a fish that is struggling to swim, further enticing bass to strike.
- Effectiveness: The combined noise and wake draw attention from bass, making it ideal for both clear and murky water conditions.
2. Best Techniques for Fishing with the Wopper Plopper
Using the Wopper Plopper is fairly straightforward, but mastering the right techniques can help increase your chances of success. Let’s look at the most effective ways to fish with this lure.
2.1 The Steady Retrieve: The Classic Approach
The most common method for fishing with the Wopper Plopper is the steady retrieve. Simply cast the lure out, allow it to settle on the water’s surface, and reel it in at a consistent pace. This will ensure that the tail spins constantly, creating the signature “plop” sound.
- Tip: Keep your rod tip slightly elevated to maintain the perfect angle for the tail to spin and create that consistent, rhythmic noise. A steady retrieve is ideal for catching active bass near the surface.
2.2 The Stop-and-Go Retrieve: For Aggressive Bass
If you want to trigger more aggressive strikes from bass, try using the stop-and-go retrieve. This technique involves reeling the lure in steadily for a few seconds, then pausing the retrieve for a moment before continuing.
- Tip: The stop-and-go technique mimics a fish that is struggling, enticing bass to strike out of aggression. The pause in the retrieve can provoke bass to attack, especially if they are in a feeding mood.
2.3 Slow Retrieve: When Bass Are Hesitant
Sometimes bass can be more cautious, particularly when the water is cold or they are feeding lightly. In these situations, a slow retrieve can make a huge difference. The slower movement allows the Wopper Plopper to create a more subtle wake, which can still attract bass without overwhelming them.
- Tip: Reel in the Wopper Plopper slowly, and allow it to create a steady, quiet plopping sound that draws the bass in without spooking them.
3. Best Conditions for Using the Wopper Plopper
Knowing the best times and conditions to use the Wopper Plopper can significantly enhance your chances of success. Here’s when and where you should consider using this effective topwater lure:
3.1 Early Morning and Late Evening
Low-light conditions, such as early morning and late evening, are ideal for topwater fishing with the Wopper Plopper. During these times, bass are more likely to be hunting near the surface, and the lure’s “plopping” sound is more likely to attract them.
- Tip: Early mornings and late evenings are the prime times for fishing shallow waters, near submerged structures like rocks, logs, or weed beds, where bass are typically feeding.
3.2 Overcast Days
Overcast days are perfect for using the Wopper Plopper since bass are more active in lower light levels. The dim light encourages bass to remain closer to the surface, making it easier to catch them with topwater lures like the Wopper Plopper.
- Tip: Use the Wopper Plopper when the sky is overcast, as bass are more likely to strike aggressively during these times. Fish in areas with submerged vegetation or on the edges of drop-offs for the best results.
3.3 Murky or Stained Water
In murky or stained water, visibility is limited for bass, and they rely more on their sense of sound to detect prey. The loud, distinctive plopping noise of the Wopper Plopper is perfect for attracting bass in these conditions.
- Tip: In murky water, cast near weed beds, shallow drop-offs, or other structures where bass like to hunt. The Wopper Plopper’s noise will help bass locate the lure even when they can’t see it clearly.
4. Choosing the Right Wopper Plopper for Your Fishing Needs
There are a variety of Wopper Plopper sizes and colors to choose from, so it’s important to select the right one based on your fishing conditions.
4.1 Size Selection
- 90 Size: Best for smaller bass or shallow water fishing. The 90 size is perfect for finesse fishing or when targeting smaller fish.
- 130 Size: A versatile, mid-range size that works well in most conditions. It’s ideal for bass of various sizes and can be used in both shallow and deep water.
- 190 Size: The largest size, designed for big bass or aggressive strikes. This size is perfect when you’re targeting large fish or fishing in deeper waters.
4.2 Color Selection
Choosing the right color is essential for matching local prey and water conditions. Here are some common colors and when to use them:
- White and Chartreuse: Works well in clear water and sunny conditions. These colors mimic baitfish like shad, which bass often target.
- Black and Blue: Perfect for murky waters or low-light conditions. The dark color creates a stark contrast against the water’s surface, making it easier for bass to spot.
- Natural Shad or Perch Colors: Best used in clear water when mimicking the local baitfish that bass are feeding on.
5. Common Mistakes with the Wopper Plopper and How to Avoid Them
Even experienced anglers can make mistakes when using the Wopper Plopper. Here are some common issues and tips to avoid them:
5.1 Overworking the Lure
Many anglers try to reel the Wopper Plopper too aggressively, which can disrupt its natural action and stop the plopping sound.
- Solution: Keep the retrieve smooth and consistent. Avoid jerking the rod or reeling too quickly, as it will affect the lure’s performance.
5.2 Not Adjusting the Retrieve Speed
Sometimes bass may be less active, especially during cold or cloudy weather, and a fast retrieve may not work.
- Solution: Slow down your retrieve and try a stop-and-go technique to make the Wopper Plopper appear like a struggling prey item.
6. Conclusion: Take Your Bass Fishing to the Next Level with the Wopper Plopper
The Wopper Plopper is one of the most powerful and versatile topwater lures available to bass anglers. Its unique design, coupled with its incredible ability to attract fish through sound and action, makes it an essential tool for anglers looking to increase their success. Whether you’re fishing early in the morning, late in the evening, or on overcast days, the Wopper Plopper can help you land more bass.
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This fourth article explores in-depth the various features, techniques, and strategies for fishing with the Wopper Plopper, from size and color selection to common mistakes and how to avoid them. The integration of Lurebolt.com ensures that readers have access to premium gear to improve their fishing performance.