Nowhere on the internet will you find as complete of a topwater frog fishing guide. With that, welcome to the ultimate guide to topwater frog fishing!
If you’re looking to master the art of flipping a frog for bass, you’re in the right place. This post dives deep into every aspect of topwater frog fishing—explaining why you need the right frog, rod, and reel, along with the best techniques to land big bass.
From choosing top frog lures to picking gear that handles dense cover, this guide will help you avoid common mistakes and boost your success on the water. Stick around and become a frog fishing pro!
Affiliate Disclaimer: Links in this post will earn Matt’s Playbook commission at no extra cost to you. We thank you for supporting our business so we can continue to make helpful, high quality content.
The Best Topwater Frogs To Buy
Are you just looking for the best topwater frogs to buy and nothing else? Good news. Here are our top picks for the best topwater frogs to buy this season! But stick around, this is the ultimate guide to frog fishing.
- Booyah Pad Crasher
- SPRO Bronzeye Frog 65
- Live Target Hollow Body Frog
- Scum Frog Big Foot
- Strike King KVD Sexy Frog
- River2Sea Bully Wa 2
In This Post
Why Is Topwater Frog Fishing So Popular?
Topwater frog fishing has exploded in popularity among bass anglers, and for good reason…
Nothing quite compares to the thrill of watching a bass explode on your frog as it skims across lily pads, reeds, and heavy cover.
Frog lures mimic the natural prey that big bass can’t resist, and their weedless design allows you to fish in some of the thickest vegetation without getting snagged.
This technique not only targets larger fish but also opens up fishing opportunities in areas that many other lures can’t reach, making it a go-to for serious anglers.
When Should You Flip A Topwater Frog?
When it comes to flipping a topwater frog, timing and conditions are everything.
Early mornings and late evenings are prime times, as bass are more active near the surface in low-light conditions, making them more likely to strike a frog. Cloudy days with a bit of wind can also create the perfect conditions for topwater bites, as the bass feel more comfortable in shallower water and are more aggressive in search of food.
However, understanding seasonal behavior is equally important. During the warmer months—especially in late spring and throughout summer—bass often move to shallow, weedy areas, which are perfect habitats for frog fishing.
This technique shines in heavy cover, like lily pads, grass mats, and flooded vegetation, where bass lurk and ambush prey. By honing in on these conditions, you’ll be setting yourself up for explosive strikes and productive days on the water.
How Do You Flip A Topwater Frog?
Step 1 – Purchase The Right Rod, Reel, and Gear
Flipping a topwater frog is a technique that hinges on precision, strength, and having the right gear.
For this style, a stout rod with a heavy power rating and fast action is essential. This setup provides the backbone needed to drive the hook home and quickly pull bass out of thick cover. Pair it with a high-speed reel to quickly pick up slack and manage the frog’s position.
Step 2 – Practice Your Technique
To flip the frog, aim for a quiet, controlled cast into dense cover, where bass lie in ambush.
Once the frog hits the water, let it sit momentarily—often, bass strike as soon as it lands. Begin a steady twitching motion, mimicking the movement of a real frog with subtle pauses. Use your rod tip to control the frog’s action, and remember to set the hook firmly at the slightest sign of movement or splash, as bass strikes on frogs are often explosive and quick.
This method, when executed with the right gear and finesse, can yield some of the most rewarding catches of the day.
What Rods & Reels Are Best For Walking A Topwater Frog?
When it comes to walking a topwater frog, the right rod and reel setup makes all the difference. A strong, medium-heavy to heavy rod with fast action is ideal, as it gives you control over the frog’s movement and enough power to set the hook effectively. High-speed baitcasting reels (around 7:1 or higher) work well, helping you quickly retrieve line to manage slack and stay responsive to a bass strike.
For in-depth recommendations on specific topwater rods, check out our recent article on The Best Casting Rods For Topwater Fishing. But to give you a jumpstart, here are a few great options.
Consider pairing the Abu Garcia Veritas PLX Casting Rod with a Shimano Curado DC reel. This combo is a great balance of sensitivity and power, perfect for both seasoned anglers and those newer to frog fishing.
If you’re just getting started, the Lew’s Mach Crush Speed Spool Combo is also an excellent, reliable setup that performs well in heavy cover.
With the right gear, walking a frog becomes a precise and thrilling method to land bass consistently.
What Are The Best Topwater Frogs To Buy?
Here are some top picks for the best topwater frogs to add to your arsenal:
1. Booyah Pad Crasher
A great all-rounder, the Booyah Pad Crasher is known for its soft body, which allows for better hooksets without sacrificing durability.
- Action: Walks smoothly, making it ideal for open water and light cover
- Size Options: Available in multiple sizes
- Color Range: Wide variety for different conditions
2. SPRO Bronzeye Frog 65
The SPRO Bronzeye is crafted with precision for dense cover, featuring sharp Gamakatsu hooks and a streamlined design that minimizes snags.
- Action: Great for heavy cover, pops well
- Weight: Allows for longer casts and deeper penetration into cover
- Build: Durable and designed for minimal water intake
3. Live Target Hollow Body Frog
A top choice for lifelike detail, this frog has excellent aesthetics and movement, mimicking a real frog for wary bass.
- Realism: Mimics a live frog in appearance and motion
- Durability: Holds up against bites and dense vegetation
- Effectiveness: Works well in clear and murky waters
4. Scum Frog Big Foot
This unique frog with paddle-like feet creates a churning action that draws attention from bass lurking in cover.
- Noise Level: Creates a wake that’s hard for bass to resist
- Ease of Use: Great for beginners and experienced anglers alike
- Hook Design: Comes with extra-wide gap hooks for solid hooksets
5. Strike King KVD Sexy Frog
A tournament-grade frog endorsed by Kevin VanDam, this model is designed to handle a variety of conditions with a durable body and razor-sharp hooks.
- Versatility: Effective in multiple cover types
- Body Design: Holds up in tough fishing conditions
- Hooking Power: Has double hooks for increased catch rates
6. River2Sea Bully Wa 2
This frog has an innovative keel shape, making it easy to walk and control through heavy vegetation.
- Water Resistance: Prevents waterlogging better than most frogs
- Action: Creates smooth, consistent motion
- Colors Available: Comes in several shades tailored to water clarity
Each of these topwater frogs brings something unique to the table, ensuring there’s an option for every environment and fishing style.
Final Thoughts | Mastering Topwater Frog Fishing
Having the right topwater frog can make all the difference in your bass fishing success. Each of the options we’ve covered has its own strengths—whether it’s the subtle walking action of the Booyah Pad Crasher or the wake-creating Scum Frog Big Foot.
With the right setup and a bit of practice, these frogs will help you master your technique and elevate your topwater game.
To keep expanding your knowledge, explore more tips and in-depth guides on our blog, where we cover everything you need to become a more skilled angler!
FAQ
What is the best topwater frog for bass fishing?
The best frog depends on cover and water conditions. Top picks include the Booyah Pad Crasher for weedless performance and the Spro Bronzeye Frog for its lifelike movement and durability.
What is the best gear ratio for topwater frog fishing?
A fast retrieve, around 7:1 to 8:1, is ideal for frog fishing. This lets you quickly reel in slack and set the hook when bass strike.
How do you fish with topwater frogs?
Cast near cover, like lily pads or logs, and use a “walk-the-dog” or twitching motion to imitate a real frog. This movement entices bass to strike.
What is the best line for topwater frog fishing?
Braid is ideal due to its strength and resistance to thick cover. Opt for a 50–65 lb braid to handle the heavy vegetation where frogs are commonly used.
What is the best color frog for topwater?
Color can vary, but natural colors like green or brown work well in clear water, while darker colors like black are effective in murky water or low-light conditions.
What time of day is best for topwater frogs?
Early morning and late evening are prime times, as bass are most active near the surface during these periods.
What color frog should I throw on a sunny day?
On sunny days, use natural, lighter colors that blend with the environment, such as greens or browns.
When should I use a black frog?
Black frogs are best for low-light conditions, such as overcast days, dawn, dusk, or murky water, as they provide a strong silhouette.
Does color matter for topwater lures?
Yes, color can impact a bass’s strike response. Dark colors create a bold profile, while natural colors match the environment and mimic real prey.
Should I use a leader for frog fishing?
Generally, no leader is needed. Braided line is preferred, as it provides the strength needed to pull bass from cover without breaking.
What action rod is best for topwater frog fishing?
A heavy power, fast-action rod is ideal. This provides strength for a solid hook set and the power needed to handle bass in thick cover.
Do you use weights with frog lures?
Frog lures are typically used without weights. Their design naturally mimics the floating movement of frogs, but you can experiment with weights if you need more casting distance.
How do you rig a frog lure?
Most topwater frogs come pre-rigged with double hooks. Simply tie your braid directly to the frog, avoiding leaders or extra attachments that could affect its action.
