Top water fishing for bass both largemouth and smallmouth has become one of the most electrifying experiences as the fish breathes in the lure right before your eyes. Unlike other angling methods, top-water fishing for bass is the most unique. It is all about the sights and sounds. Take your eyes off of what you are doing even for a minute and you can miss out on getting the big one. Top water fishing for bass needs that you understand two different strategies, the twelve o’ clock and the 6 o’ clock rod handling techniques.
The twelve o’clock rod handling method is a phrase that means to describe the position of the pole after casting. Similar to the name, it suggests that you hold the pole out in front of you with the rod pointed straight up in the air, therefore twelve o’ clock. Where and when you would use this rod technique depends upon the circumstance and this is the key to not only this but most bass fishing pointers. The twelve o’ lock technique works the best in thick weed cover. Top water fishing bass lures that go hand in hand with this rod technique are realistic ones that imitate bait like frogs and mice. Another great option for top-water bass fishing are those cigar shaped bullet lures like the water demon. Due to the thick weed make sure to use a strong to medium heavy action fishing rod with line that can handle thick weeds. Pumping and jerking the lure or bait while reeling it in will certainly keep you free from snags.
The 6 o’ clock pole strategy is where you hold the pole out in front of you. However, with this technique the tip of the pole is right above the waterline, hence the term 6 o’ clock. This is the best top water rod strategy for fishing in open water. Your lure choices are water chuggers and walking the dog with those cigar designed bullets are super easy when you are using the 6 o’ clock technique. Adding twitches as well as a little bit of pumping action adds irregular action imitating a wounded fish or other bait to entice bass to strike at your lure. A medium action fishing rod and reel seem to work best with this type of rod technique.
To perfect these techniques, practice both methods in your backyard before you head out to the lake. Purchase some fishing bass lures and take the treble hooks off and practice casting and retrieving using both of these techniques. Try adding in the twitches, jerks and pumps to get the erratic action that drives bass crazy. Master these two top water fishing methods and you will have techniques that will help you land more fish than anyone else in your group.
