On this weeks edition of Ask AI, we wanted to know how much Chat GPT knows about throwing topwater. Where, when, and how.
Question: When is the best time to throw topwaters?
Answer:
When to Throw Topwater Lures: Tips and Techniques for Success
As any seasoned angler knows, the thrill of topwater fishing is hard to beat. The explosive strikes and adrenaline-pumping action make it a favorite among many. But knowing when to throw topwater lures can make all the difference between a productive day on the water and coming home empty-handed. Here are some key times and conditions to consider for maximizing your success with topwater lures.
Early Morning and Late Evening
Dawn and dusk are prime times for topwater action. Fish are often more active during these low-light periods, moving into shallower waters to feed. The reduced light levels make fish less wary and more likely to strike at surface baits. During these times, the water is often calmer, making it easier for fish to detect the vibrations and sounds of your lure.
Overcast Days
Cloudy or overcast days can extend the effective hours for topwater fishing beyond the early morning and late evening windows. The diffused light from the clouds creates an all-day feeding opportunity for fish, keeping them more active and willing to hit surface lures. Overcast conditions can also reduce glare on the water, making it easier for fish to see and attack your lure.
Warm Water Temperatures
Water temperature plays a crucial role in determining fish activity. As a general rule, warmer water temperatures (typically between 60-80°F) make fish more aggressive and more likely to chase down a topwater lure. During the warmer months, fish metabolism increases, causing them to feed more frequently and with greater intensity.
During the Spawn and Post-Spawn
Spawning periods are excellent times for topwater fishing. During the spawn, fish are often guarding nests and will aggressively strike at anything that comes near. Post-spawn, fish are hungry and looking to replenish energy, making them more likely to attack surface baits. Focus on shallow areas near spawning beds, and use lures that mimic prey species like frogs or baitfish.
Low Light Conditions
Low light conditions beyond the usual dawn and dusk can also be productive. Fishing under the cover of shade provided by trees, docks, or other structures can yield great results. Fish often use these shaded areas as ambush points, waiting for unsuspecting prey to swim by.
Calm Water Conditions
Calm waters are ideal for topwater fishing. When the water surface is still, it’s easier for fish to detect the subtle movements and vibrations of your lure. Windy or choppy conditions can make it difficult for fish to see and strike at your bait, reducing the effectiveness of topwater lures.
Seasonal Considerations
Spring and fall are typically the best seasons for topwater fishing. In spring, fish are often in shallow waters preparing to spawn, making them more likely to strike surface lures. In fall, fish are actively feeding to prepare for winter, creating another excellent opportunity for topwater action.
Tips for Topwater Success
1. Match the Hatch: Use lures that resemble the natural prey of the fish in your area. Frogs, mice, insects, and baitfish are all effective topwater options.
2. Vary Your Retrieve: Experiment with different retrieval speeds and patterns to see what triggers strikes. Pausing the lure occasionally can mimic a struggling prey and entice fish to bite.
3. Use Proper Gear: A medium to medium-heavy rod with fast action is ideal for topwater fishing. Braided line can help with sensitivity and hook-setting power.
4. Be Patient: Topwater fishing requires patience and persistence. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t get immediate strikes. Keep experimenting with different lures and techniques.
In conclusion, topwater fishing is an exhilarating and rewarding method that requires the right conditions and techniques. By paying attention to factors like time of day, weather, water temperature, and seasonal patterns, you can increase your chances of success and experience the unforgettable excitement of a topwater strike. So, next time you’re out on the water, don’t forget to pack your topwater lures and get ready for some heart-pounding action!
Our Response:
If you wanted a very basic understanding of fishing topwater baits, this Ask AI response if perfect. But any seasoned angler will know there are a few things that I would tweak. Overall most of the information was basic but pretty good.
We will start with the parts I agree on. Most of the time, the best time to use topwater baits is in the early morning and the evening. Fish are usually willing to come to the surface to feed at these times. That doesn't mean you can't still catch them during the day, however. Lots of times, fish will school up during the middle of the day, and scholing bass love some topwater. Cloudy and rainy days also are some of my favorite times to use a popper or walking bait. Chat GPT also didn't take hollow body frogs into account. Most of the time, fish will hit a frog through slop or pads at any given time of day.
Another thing to consider is calm waters are often times better for poppers and walking baits because you can work that bait more easily. If there is a decent amount of wind, I like to throw a buzzbait, because you can work that bait quickly and fish can get a better read on the bait. If there is too much wind and waves, it becomes largely more difficult to work a topwater effectively
I like to throw topwaters anywhere from March to November. These are the easiest months to catch fish on topwater baits here in the Midwest. If you live down south, topwater can be thrown all year with success. However, I have heard of people throwing poppers on Bull Shoals Lake in the dead of winter and catching fish. They will pop the bait once, and let it sit for over thirty seconds. I personally have not tried this technique, but rumor has it, it works.
Now onto some things I disagree with. In most instances, I would not use braid for topwater baits such as poppers, prop baits, and walking baits. I would use braid for frogs and buzz baits, and that's about it. Another thing I disagree with is using topwaters during the spawn. Bottom baits are more effective for bass on beds because you are able to keep them in one place for long. You are also able to make more targeted flips to specific parts on the bed.
To wrap up, topwater is one of my favorite techniques to use. I love watching them come up and eat it. I throw topwater as much as I can. If I were to rate this Chat GPT answer, I'd give it a 7/10. I hope you enjoyed this weeks edition of Ask AI, and as always, Love the Adventure.
- Paul Hoffman