Freshwater Bass Hard Baits

Make a fleeing baitfish the easiest target on the surface. The Jackall Riser Bait 007 uses an upward-angled metal lip to climb toward the surface on the retrieve, then skitter and skip like a minnow trying to escape. Its erratic, panicked action gives bass a moving target to chase and creates the kind of surface commotion that can turn feeding activity into a topwater strike.

At 2.75 inches and 5/16 oz, the 007 offers a compact baitfish profile with two sharp Japanese treble hooks. Choose it when fish are chasing small forage near the top and you want a lively escape action rather than a slow pop-and-pause presentation.

More Than a Quiet Wake

This is not simply a subtle subsurface wake bait. The upward metal lip is designed to bring it up quickly and generate an erratic skipping action across the surface. That movement is its main advantage when bass are willing to chase. When fish want a nearly stationary target, a slower popper or soft-plastic presentation may be the better choice.

Put It in Front of Chasing Fish

Best for: surface-feeding largemouth and smallmouth bass, schooling-fish situations, compact baitfish presentations, and covering open water with a moving topwater. Try it around visible bait schools, points, and open pockets where you have room to retrieve without fouling the trebles. Low light and overcast conditions are good starting opportunities, but visible feeding activity is the stronger cue.

For a different surface cadence, keep a Heddon Zara Spook available as a walking-bait alternative. If fish stop chasing on top, a Zoom The Fluke 4-inch offers a soft-plastic follow-up.

The Details Behind the Skip

• Upward-angled metal lip: creates lift during the retrieve rather than driving the lure downward like a conventional diving bill.
• Erratic surface action: imitates a baitfish skittering away from predators.
• Compact profile: a small-forage option for bass feeding near the surface.
• Two Japanese treble hooks: factory-equipped for fishing straight from the package.
• Eight color choices: select your preferred finish from the available variants.

007 Models & Specs

Let the Lip Create the Escape

Cast beyond the feeding area when practical, take up slack, and begin retrieving to bring the bait toward the surface. Start with a consistent retrieve, then adjust your speed until it produces the skittering action you want. You do not need to force a traditional walking-bait rhythm to make the upward lip work. Use tackle rated for a 5/16-oz lure, with enough give to help keep treble-hooked fish connected.

Tackle Express Tips

• Watch the bait first: make a short test retrieve beside the boat or bank to find a speed that produces the desired rise and skip.
• Cast beyond the commotion: retrieve through the edge of feeding activity instead of landing directly on top of it.
• Stay composed on the strike: keep reeling until you feel the fish, then load the rod smoothly rather than reacting only to the splash.

Before Your First Cast

Is the Riser Bait 007 a topwater lure?
Yes. Its upward-angled metal lip brings it toward the surface on the retrieve, where it creates an erratic skipping action. It should not be described as a bait designed never to break the surface.

How is it different from a walking bait?
The Riser Bait uses its metal lip and retrieve to create a rising, fleeing-baitfish presentation. A traditional walking bait relies on rod cadence for its side-to-side surface movement.

When should I choose the 007?
Choose it when bass are chasing small baitfish near the surface and you want an active, compact topwater presentation. Switch approaches if fish consistently prefer a slower or subsurface target.

Does it come with hooks?
Yes. The Riser Bait 007 comes equipped with two Japanese treble hooks.

A stickbait lives or dies on whether an average angler can make it walk. The Espetit is built so it does — the taper and balance do most of the work, so you get a clean side-to-side glide without the wrist rhythm a lot of walking baits demand.

Short version: floating topwater stickbait in five sizes from 70mm to 140mm. Walk-the-dog and sliding action, twin cavities that pull bubbles down with the bait, and an internal rattle — with a silent version if the rattle is working against you.

What Makes It Different

• Dual cavities — the bait drags air down as it darts, leaving a bubble trail alongside the surface disturbance. Two signals instead of one.
• Internal rattle tuned to a specific frequency, adding sound to the visual and the bubbles.
• Floats at rest — the pause holds it in the strike zone instead of dropping out of it, and the pause is where most stickbait fish commit.
• Aerodynamic profile for distance, which matters when fish are boiling out of reach or you're covering a flat from the beach.
• Five sizes spanning bass-sized finesse to full pelagic profiles.

Rattle or Silent?

The White N Flash (Silent) is not a color variation — it's a rattle-free version of the bait, currently offered in 95mm.

Reach for the silent when fish are heavily pressured, the water is very clear and calm, or the rattling version has been getting follows and refusals. Sound is an attractant right up until it isn't, and on flat mornings a quiet bait sometimes gets eaten by the same fish that just refused a loud one. Take the rattle version everywhere else — chop, wind, stained water, and any time you need to call fish from a distance.

Which Size

Freshwater and Saltwater

The Espetit came out of the European seabass scene, which is why it casts and behaves the way it does — wind, chop, and long distances were the design brief.

Freshwater: 70mm and 95mm for largemouth and smallmouth, particularly on clear pressured lakes where a walking bait needs to be smaller than the standard.

Saltwater: the 125mm and 140mm are legitimate surface options for calico bass over structure, and for bonito and barracuda when they're feeding on top. The distance is the argument — boiling fish are usually further away than you'd like.

Fishing It Around Santa Clarita

Topwater windows on the local lakes move week to week. We publish Castaic Lake fishing reports with current conditions — worth checking before you decide it's a surface day.

Picking a Color

Colors offered vary by size. The selector above is the live list.

Recommended Gear

• Rod: moderate action with a forgiving tip. Stiff rods rip trebles out of fish on surface strikes — the single most common way anglers lose topwater fish.
• Line: braid to a fluorocarbon or mono leader. Braid gives you the direct connection to work the walk; the leader gives you abrasion resistance and a little stretch.
• Avoid heavy fluorocarbon straight through — it sinks and pulls the nose down, fighting the bait's float.

Pro Tips from the Tackle Express Crew

• Slack line makes it walk. Twitch into slack, not into tension. A tight line pulls the bait straight and kills the side-to-side.
• Use the pause. It floats for a reason. Let it sit after a blow-up and miss — fish routinely come back for a bait that's sitting still.
• Wait to feel weight before you set. Setting on the splash pulls it out of the fish's mouth.
• Try the silent version on flat mornings. Same bait, one fewer signal. Sometimes that's the difference.

Common Mistakes

• Working it on a tight line. The bait needs slack to turn.
• Too stiff a rod. Costs you fish on every strike.
• Setting on sight. Wait for the weight.
• Undersizing for saltwater. A 95mm on calicos over structure will get bit — the #6 trebles are the limiting factor, not the bait.

What's Included

One Fishus Espetit in the size and color selected, factory rigged with trebles. No spare hooks or split rings included.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between White N Flash and White N Flash (Silent)?
The silent version has no internal rattle. Same body, same action, one fewer signal — for pressured fish and flat, clear conditions. Currently offered in 95mm.

Which size should I start with?
95mm for freshwater bass and general use. 125mm if you're fishing saltwater surface for calicos, bonito, or barracuda.

Does it float?
Yes. It holds position on the pause instead of sinking out, which is where a lot of the bites come from.

How do I make it walk?
Twitch the rod tip into slack line, not into tension. The bait needs slack to turn — pulling tight drives it straight.

Can I use it in saltwater?
Yes — the Espetit was developed for European seabass. Rinse the hardware after every trip like any other saltwater lure.

What rod and line?
Moderate action with a forgiving tip, braid to a fluorocarbon or mono leader. Avoid heavy fluorocarbon straight through; it sinks and fights the bait's float.

Why are some sizes offered in fewer colors?
Fishus doesn't produce every colorway in every size. The selector shows what's actually available.

Related Gear

• Topwater Fishing Lures — poppers, walking baits, and stickbaits.
• Freshwater Lures — cranks, jerkbaits, and soft plastics.
• Staff Favorites — what our crew actually fishes.

Buy It From People Who Fish It

We're on Soledad Canyon Road in Santa Clarita and we fish these lures on both the local lakes and the coast. Not sure whether you want the 95 or the 125, or whether the silent version is worth it for your water? Call the shop or come in — that's a two-minute conversation and it saves you buying the wrong one first.

The Spro KGB Chad Shad Swimbait is one of the great advances in fishing over the past several years is the development of glide baits. These oversized, single-jointed, hard-bodied fish imitators were created to mimic trout in California lakes but have morphed into replicating large bass prey across the country. The KGB Chad Shad 180 can resemble virtually any baitfish that bass feed on, such as trout, shad, perch, and other types of fish.

The Glide Bait designed by SPRO and KGB Swimbaits has been perfected with experience. Kevin Brightwell, the designer of KGB Swimbaits, has greatly enjoyed the partnership with SPRO. “It’s been a wonderful experience. It’s all been very natural with nothing forced, and we’ve been able to take a proven bait and make something new and fresh based off of that. It all started when I was sourcing hooks and they recognized who I was. After talking about glide baits and some fishing, they asked if I’d like to partner with them. Since then it’s been an awesome partnership.”

Brightwell thinks the KGB Chad Shad 180 will find a home in tackle boxes of anglers at every experience level. “The Chad Shad is one of the most popular baits in my lineup. It’s versatile enough that a beginner can garner results, or a seasoned pro can use it for that big kicker fish to finish out their limit. It delivers the performance of a hand-crafted, fine-tuned bait at an affordable price.”

Features:

• 180mm length - approximately 7"
• 2.4oz
• Slow sink ROF 3-4
• 2 Gamakatsu #1 treble hooks
• MSRP: $59.99

Lucky Craft LV Max 500 Lipless Crankbait

The fish are scattered, the water is big, and you need to cover ground fast. Tie on the Lucky Craft LV Max 500 and start burning. A premium lipless crankbait built for power fishing, the LV 500 is the tool tournament pros and weekend warriors alike reach for when they need to locate fish quickly and trigger reaction strikes across a wide range of depths.

Cast it a mile — the LV 500's aerodynamic profile loads up for exceptional distance on every cast. Then work it shallow at 1–3 feet on a fast retrieve, or let it sink and count it down to find schools holding at 10–15 feet. The brass and glass rattle combination produces a unique, distinctive sound that stands out from standard BB rattles — a subtle edge that can make a big difference on pressured fisheries. Pair that with a tight, natural wobble action and you have a bait that looks and sounds like real food.

Features

• Brass and glass rattles produce a unique sound unlike standard lipless crankbaits
• Versatile depth range — burn it at 1–3 ft or count it down to 10–15 ft
• Long-casting aerodynamic profile for maximum water coverage
• Tight wobble action with a natural, lifelike profile
• Premium Lucky Craft construction with realistic color patterns
• Effective for both power fishing and finesse slow-rolling

Specs

• Model: LV 500
• Length: 3"
• Weight: 3/4 oz
• Class: Sinking
• Depth: 1–3 ft (fast retrieve) / 10–15 ft (count-down)

Best For

• Techniques: Power fishing, burning, slow-rolling, count-down deep
• Conditions: Cold water, post-spawn, winter, schooling fish, open water
• Species: Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Spotted Bass, Striped Bass

Perfect For

When you need to cover water fast and find fish, the Lucky Craft LV Max 500 is the lipless crankbait that gets it done. A must-have in every serious angler's tackle box.

The Glide Bait That Made Glide Baits Mainstream

The River2Sea S-Waver is a two-piece hard glide bait built around River2Sea's exclusive pin-and-tenon hinge and finished with a soft PVC tail. That combination produces the wide, unhurried S-shaped swimming motion the bait is named for. It comes in two sizes — the 120S at 4.75" and the 168S at 6.75" — and both run sub-surface at roughly a foot on a steady retrieve.

Why Anglers Reach for the S-Waver

Most hard baits announce themselves. The S-Waver doesn't. The hinge lets the two halves swing wide and glide on a straight, slow retrieve without any rod input at all, so the bait covers water with a big, lazy profile that reads as an unhurried baitfish rather than something fleeing. On pressured fish that have refused everything faster, that difference is the whole point.

The Problem With Working a Glide Bait Too Hard

The most common way to fish this bait badly is to fish it like a jerkbait. Hard twitches kill the glide and collapse the S into a stutter. The hinge is doing the work — your job is mostly to reel slowly and stay out of its way. A twitch is for changing direction and triggering a follower, not for generating the action.

What Sets It Apart

• River2Sea's exclusive pin-and-tenon hinge — the source of the S-action
• Soft PVC tail that keeps swimming when the body pauses
• Two-piece hard body in two sizes, 4.75" and 6.75"
• Sub-surface runner at roughly one foot on a steady retrieve
• River2Sea BN treble hooks fitted from the factory
• Twenty-two size and color combinations in stock, including trout, bluegill, and shad patterns

The Right Pick If…

• You're fishing clear water where fish get a long look at the bait
• You want to cover water without burning a lure past fish
• You're targeting bigger-than-average bass and willing to trade bite count for size
• You've watched fish follow and refuse faster presentations

Choosing Your Size

• 120S — 4.75", 1 3/16 oz: The approachable size. Throwable on a heavy bass rod, fewer refusals, and it still draws quality fish. Start here if this is your first glide bait. Fitted with #4 and #6 trebles.
• 168S — 6.75", 1 5/8 oz: The big-fish size. More water displaced, more commitment from the fish that eat it, fewer bites overall. Wants a proper swimbait rod. Fitted with two #2 trebles.

Best Techniques

• Straight slow retrieve: The default. Cast, let it settle, and reel slowly and steadily — the hinge generates the S without any help
• Pause and glide: Stop the reel mid-retrieve and let the bait coast sideways. Most strikes on the 168S come on the glide, not the pull
• Twitch to trigger: When a fish follows without committing, one sharp twitch turns the bait ninety degrees and often converts the follow
• Count down over structure: Both sizes sink slowly, so you can count them down to a specific depth before starting the retrieve

Best Conditions

• Clear to lightly stained water — the action is visual, and fish need to see it
• Pressured lakes and reservoirs where fast reaction baits have stopped working
• Open water, points, and the outside edges of grass and timber
• Pre-spawn and fall, when bigger fish are actively hunting larger forage

Best For

• Species: Largemouth and smallmouth bass across both sizes; pike, musky, and striped bass more commonly on the 168S
• Techniques: Slow straight retrieve, pause-and-glide, twitch-to-trigger, countdown
• Environments: Freshwater lakes, reservoirs, open water, points, grass edges, timber

Key Features

• Two-piece hard glide bait with pin-and-tenon hinge
• Soft PVC tail
• Available in 120S (4.75", 1 3/16 oz) and 168S (6.75", 1 5/8 oz)
• Sub-surface running depth, approximately 1 ft
• River2Sea BN treble hooks — #4 and #6 on the 120S, two #2 on the 168S
• Eight colors in the 120S, fourteen in the 168S
• Trout, bluegill, shad, perch, and bone patterns available

Models & Specs

120S colors: Rainbow Trout, Lite Trout, Party Crasher, Baby Bass, Warden, Bluegill, Abalone Shad, Bone.
168S colors: Rainbow Trout, Lite Trout, Hitch, Party Crasher, Baby Bass, Warden, Bluegill, Abalone Shad, Bone, Yellow Perch, Crystal Minnow, Powder, Terminator, You Know It.

Tackle Express Tips

• Slow down, then slow down again: Nearly everyone fishes this bait too fast the first few trips. If you think you're reeling slowly enough, take another turn per second off it.
• Match the color to what they're eating: Rainbow Trout and Lite Trout on trout-stocked reservoirs, Bluegill around spawning flats and docks, Bone and Powder when the water is stained or the light is flat.
• Don't undergun the 168S: At 1 5/8 oz it's a genuine swimbait rod bait. Throwing it on a standard heavy bass setup costs you distance and beats up the rod.

FAQ

Which size should I start with?
The 120S. At 4.75" and 1 3/16 oz it casts on gear most bass anglers already own, it draws more bites than the larger size, and it still catches quality fish. Move to the 168S once you're confident in the retrieve and specifically hunting bigger fish.

How do I actually fish a glide bait?
Cast it, let it settle, and reel slowly and steadily — the pin-and-tenon hinge creates the S-action on its own with no rod work. Pause occasionally and let it coast sideways; that glide is when most strikes happen. Save sharp twitches for turning the bait when a fish follows without eating.

Is this a topwater bait?
No. The S-Waver is a sub-surface glide bait that runs roughly a foot down on a steady retrieve. If you're after a surface walking bait, that's a different category entirely.

The Megabass Great Hunting Humpback is an ideal to explore new streams where trout of all sizes roam. Its fast-sink tuning and tail weighting power smooth casts, flickering falls and stable swimming through everything the toughest mountain streams can bring.The Great Hunting Humpback's heavy tail-weighting also generates a wriggling, falling action to coax bites out of pools and allow for range adjustment along deep cut banks. and its bigger 51mm and 64mm lengths, have a tall body that generates outsized flash at every retrieve speed.

Designed primarily for stable retrieves with and against current, anglers can also spice up their offering with twitches and jerks to power escape action that attract reaction bites from veteran trophies. In swifter streams and deeper pools, these lures show their true power by reaching depth quicker than conventional minnows and permitting a high degree of range control. If your targets are chasing  the GH64 or GH51 without biting, try downsizing to the smaller GH46 size and/or speeding up your retrieve and twitch action.

GH46 Humpback:

GH51 Humpback:

The Savage Gear Glide Swimmer is built around the slow, side-to-side S-swimming motion anglers want from a glide bait, without requiring the largest specialized setup for the smaller model. Its soft PVC tail adds movement behind the body, while three size classes let you choose a baitfish profile that fits the fish and conditions you are trying to match.

Choose the 135 for a 5 1/2-inch, 1 oz presentation, the 165 for a 6 1/2-inch, 1 3/4 oz profile, or the 205 for an 8-inch, 3 oz bait. The color lineup includes shad, bluegill, trout, bone, chartreuse, Hitch, and Dirty Silver Flash patterns.

Why This Glide Bait Works

A glide bait earns its keep when a steady retrieve needs to look alive without a frantic wobble. The Glide Swimmer's S-motion gives the bait a wide, readable path through the water, and the soft PVC tail continues the movement behind the body. It is an approachable way to fish a larger baitfish profile, especially when you choose the size to match your tackle and target.

Give Predators a Bigger Baitfish Target

Small lures are not always the answer. When fish are willing to track a larger meal or you want to show them a profile that can be seen from farther away, a glide bait gives you a different tool. The challenge is keeping that larger presentation natural. The Glide Swimmer addresses it with a controlled S-swimming action instead of a straight, lifeless pull.

Built for Glide-Bait Presentations

• Freshwater swimbait fishing when you want a larger baitfish profile
• Steady retrieves that let the S-motion do the work
• Size matching across 135, 165, and 205 models
• Color matching with shad, bluegill, trout, bone, and other baitfish patterns
• Open-water and structure-oriented retrieves where you can watch the bait's path
• Anglers who want a glide bait option from a manageable 1 oz size through a 3 oz presentation

The Right Pick If...

• You want a glide bait with a clear, repeatable S-swimming motion.
• You need more than one size so you can match your tackle and baitfish profile.
• You prefer a soft PVC tail that adds movement behind the body.
• You want a larger freshwater presentation without starting with the 3 oz model.
• You fish color patterns that resemble shad, bluegill, trout, or other common forage profiles.

What It Does Best, and When to Choose Something Else

The Glide Swimmer is strongest when the goal is a larger, controlled baitfish presentation with a deliberate side-to-side action. Choose another bait when you need a topwater wake, a fast vibrating retrieve, a compact finesse profile, or a lure designed specifically for deep vertical fishing. This is a glide bait, so its strength is the swim and track, not frantic speed.

How to Fish It

Start with a steady retrieve and let the bait establish its S-motion. Keep the rod and retrieve speed consistent long enough to see how the bait tracks, then experiment with pauses and speed changes. A controlled pause can let the bait slow or turn before you resume the retrieve, while a slightly faster pace can help you cover water when fish are willing to chase.

Choose the size before choosing the color. The 135 is the most manageable entry point at 1 oz, the 165 adds profile and weight at 1 3/4 oz, and the 205 gives you the largest 8-inch, 3 oz presentation. Use gear and line appropriate for the selected bait weight.

Best Conditions

Reach for the Glide Swimmer when fish are willing to follow a larger baitfish silhouette or when you want a moving target that can be tracked through open water and around structure. The smaller 135 suits lighter swimbait work, while the 165 and 205 are better choices when you want more profile and can support the additional weight with your tackle.

Color Guide

• Dirty Silver Flash, Blue Flash, and Golden Shiner: Baitfish-style options for a silver or reflective look.
• Ghost Bass and Ghost Bluegill: Freshwater forage patterns with a natural profile.
• Ghost Trout: A trout-pattern option for waters where trout are part of the forage picture.
• Ghost Bone: A lighter, bone-style option.
• Hitch: A dedicated Hitch pattern in the available 135, 165, and 205 models.
• Chartreuse Flash: A brighter flash option when you want additional visibility.
• SS B and discontinued color listings: Additional variant choices shown in the current lineup. Availability can vary by size and color.

Key Features

• S-swimming motion: Deliberate side-to-side glide action on a steady retrieve.
• Soft PVC tail: Adds movement behind the body.
• Three size classes: 135, 165, and 205 models.
• Three confirmed body profiles: 5 1/2 inches, 6 1/2 inches, and 8 inches.
• Three confirmed weights: 1 oz, 1 3/4 oz, and 3 oz.
• Broad color selection: Current variants include shad, bluegill, trout, bone, Hitch, and flash patterns.

Size & Dimensions

Choose the model by body length and bait weight first, then select the color that fits your forage and visibility needs.

Tackle Express Tips

• Watch the bait beside the boat or bank before making a full cast. Confirm the S-motion and track before you start changing retrieve speed.
• Match the model to your gear first. Moving from 135 to 165 or 205 changes both the profile and the weight you are asking your rod to cast.
• Use a steady retrieve as your baseline. Add pauses and speed changes only after you know how the bait responds at a consistent pace.

FAQ

What is the Savage Gear Glide Swimmer's action?
It is designed to produce an S-swimming motion on the retrieve, with a soft PVC tail that adds movement behind the bait.

Which Glide Swimmer size should I choose?
The 135 is 5 1/2 inches and 1 oz, the 165 is 6 1/2 inches and 1 3/4 oz, and the 205 is 8 inches and 3 oz. Choose based on the baitfish profile you want and the gear that can comfortably cast the weight.

How should I retrieve it?
Start with a steady retrieve that lets the bait establish its glide. Once you understand how it tracks, add controlled pauses or speed changes to vary the presentation.

Complete the Setup

Match the Glide Swimmer with the Phenix Ultra Swimbait Classic Rods. For another glide-bait presentation, compare it with the Savage Gear Shine Glide Pro Glide Bait or the Spro BBZ-1 Jr. Swimbait.

Choose the model your tackle can cast comfortably, confirm the swim beside the boat, and let the Glide Swimmer's S-motion do the selling.

The Sound That Bass Can't Ignore

The River2Sea Whopper Plopper 130 is one of the most iconic topwater lures ever made — and for good reason. That deep, hollow whopping sound produced by the rotating tail is unlike anything else on the water. Crawl it so slowly you can barely hear the tail, or rip it fast so it throws water like a swamp buggy. Either way, it gets bit. Cast it a mile, dial in your retrieve speed, and let the sound do the work.

Engineered to Run Perfect, Right Out of the Box

The Whopper Plopper's propeller-style tail is perfectly tuned from the factory and stays flexible and fish-catching forever. No tweaking, no tuning, no adjustments — just tie it on and go. The tail rotates smoothly across a wide range of retrieve speeds, producing alluring rumbles and multi-octave splashing that triggers strikes from bass, pike, musky, and stripers.

Why Standard Prop Baits Fall Short

Most prop baits are noisy at one speed and dead at another. The Whopper Plopper produces fish-catching sound and action from a dead-slow crawl all the way to a fast burn — giving you a versatile topwater that adapts to the mood of the fish. When bass are finicky, slow it down. When they're aggressive, speed it up. The Plopper works either way.

Built to Last, Built to Cast

Pre-rigged with two size #1 premium black nickel treble hooks, the Whopper Plopper 130 is ready to fish the moment it comes out of the package. The durable body handles rocks, wood, and hard-fighting fish without losing its action, and its aerodynamic profile launches exceptionally long casts for a topwater of its size — covering more water and reaching fish that other lures can't.

The Right Pick If...

• You want a topwater that works at any retrieve speed
• You're targeting largemouth, smallmouth, pike, musky, or striped bass
• You need a lure that casts far and covers open water efficiently
• Walking baits and poppers aren't triggering strikes
• You want a proven, tournament-tested topwater with a massive color selection

Best Retrieve Techniques

• Slow Crawl: Barely-there retrieve — just enough to keep the tail ticking. Deadly in calm conditions and post-spawn
• Medium Steady: The bread-and-butter retrieve — consistent tail rotation with a rhythmic whopping sound
• Fast Burn: Rip it across the surface throwing water — triggers reaction strikes from aggressive fish
• Stop and Go: Vary your retrieve speed to create an erratic, fleeing-baitfish action

Best Conditions

• Calm to lightly choppy surface — the tail sound carries best in calmer water
• Low-light periods — early morning and late evening when bass are most active on top
• Post-spawn through fall when bass are chasing baitfish on the surface
• Summer feeding windows over open flats, points, and submerged structure
• Any body of water where big fish are looking up — lakes, reservoirs, rivers, ponds

Best For

• Species: Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Pike, Musky, Striped Bass
• Techniques: Slow roll, medium steady retrieve, fast burn, stop-and-go
• Conditions: Calm to choppy surface, low-light, post-spawn, summer and fall feeding windows
• Water: Lakes, reservoirs, rivers, ponds — anywhere big fish are looking up

Key Features

• Propeller-style rotating tail creates powerful surface commotion
• Produces deep, hollow whopping sound across all retrieve speeds
• Pre-rigged with 2x size #1 premium black nickel treble hooks
• Perfectly tuned tail — no adjustments needed, stays flexible forever
• Exceptional casting distance for a topwater of its size
• Extremely durable body — handles rocks, wood, and hard-fighting fish
• 12 proven color patterns to match any water condition

Models & Specs

Tackle Express Tips

• Start Slow, Speed Up: Begin your retrieve at a slow crawl and gradually increase speed until you find the cadence the fish want that day. The Plopper produces at every speed — let the fish tell you what they want.
• Match the Color to Forage: In shad-heavy lakes, go with Phantom Shad, Chubby, or Crystal Minnow. In perch or bluegill fisheries, try Perch or Munky Butt. In stained water, Blue Blood and Rat Ta Tat create the best silhouette.
• Use a Loop Knot: A loop knot (like a Rapala knot) gives the Whopper Plopper maximum freedom of movement and enhances the tail action, especially at slower retrieve speeds.

FAQ

What rod and line setup works best with the Whopper Plopper 130?
A medium-heavy 7'–7'6" casting rod with 30–50 lb braided line is ideal. Braid floats and keeps the lure riding high on the surface, while the sensitivity lets you feel the tail action and detect any change in retrieve speed.

How do I know if the tail is tuned correctly?
The tail should rotate freely and consistently at slow retrieve speeds. If it's not spinning, check for debris caught in the tail joint. The Whopper Plopper comes factory-tuned and rarely needs adjustment.

Can I use the Whopper Plopper 130 for pike and musky?
Absolutely. The 5 in, 1 3/8 oz profile is a great pike and musky topwater, especially in summer when fish are shallow and aggressive. Upgrade to heavier treble hooks if you're specifically targeting large musky.

The Megabass Vision Oneten +1 Jr. Jerkbait brings snack-sized, irresistible darting action to new depths. Tuned to match the suspend settings of the Bassmaster Classic winning, the smaller Jr. size is a wildly effective tool to attack the key 7ft range. No detail has been spared. From the first twitch, the Jr. exhibits the same unrivaled, dynamic action that catapulted the ONETEN series onto the front deck of serious Jerkbait anglers.

The Oneten+1 Jr. delivers mesmerizingly erratic jerking action. With a straight retrieve, it exhibits high pitch rolling and seductive flash. With a tungsten Multiway Moving Balancer System (PAT.) for superior cast distance, sticky-sharp trebles to capture hard-won bites, and a hand-painted artisan finish, the VISION ONETEN+1 Jr is built to match smaller forage and/or entice pre-spawn targets that follow the larger original version without committing.

Savage Gear stepped it up with the Savage Gear 3D Roach Shine Glide 135mm!  This little gem features quality hooks and split rings, a hard body with detailed scale pattern, a semi soft tail for durability and less memory, foam bumpers in the joint to make it quieter, and realistic paint and eyes.  There are no rattles and is a completely silent bait.  Along with it's excellent swimming action, this 3D image bait is sure to become a favorite.

5 1/4" long (135mm)

Slow Sinking

1oz

Hook Size #4

Swims from 1 to 6 feet

When bass are looking up, the Don Iovino Splash-It gives them a target they can track. Instead of simply chugging in place, this purpose-built topwater popper spits water well ahead of the bait, creating the impression of a struggling baitfish. A hand-tied chicken-feather dressed rear treble adds movement and flash during the pause.

Choose the compact Splash-It for a subtle presentation or step up to the Splash-It 2 when you want a slightly larger profile and more casting weight. Work it across calm pockets, over shallow cover, or along a wind-blown bank, then let the bait sit long enough for a fish to finish the job.

Make the Surface Come Alive

• Forward-spitting action gives fish a clear visual and surface disturbance to track.
• Hand-tied feathered rear treble adds motion behind the bait.
• Two sizes make it easier to match the amount of commotion fish want.
• Available in proven shad, bluegill, bone, and bright visibility colors.

When a Standard Popper Is Not Enough

Traditional chuggers can keep their action tight to the lure. The Splash-It sends water forward, helping you call fish from a little farther away while still giving you a controlled stop-and-go presentation. It is a smart choice when bass are willing to strike on top but need a more noticeable target.

The Right Pick If...

• You fish largemouth or smallmouth bass with topwater presentations.
• You want a popper that combines a compact profile with visible forward spray.
• You need both a finesse-sized option and a larger version in the same lure family.

Best Techniques and Conditions

• Walk, spit, pause: Make short rod-tip snaps, then pause beside cover or in an open pocket.
• Target shallow water: Fish points, flats, docks, laydowns, and grass edges where bass can rise.
• Choose the calmest windows: Calm to lightly rippled water makes the surface action easiest to see, while the larger Splash-It 2 can help when a little more presence is useful.

Models & Specs

Tackle Express Tips

• Start with a pause after the cast, then use short snaps instead of a hard pull to keep the bait spitting forward.
• Use darker or natural shad colors in low light, and brighter colors when you need the lure to stand out.
• Keep a feathered replacement option such as Gamakatsu Feathered Treble Trailer Hooks ready when the rear dressing needs attention.

Build the Topwater Setup

Pair the Splash-It with a responsive casting setup such as the Shimano Curado 200 M Casting Reels, or compare its surface sound and profile with the Megabass Popmax Topwater Popper.

FAQ

What is the difference between Splash-It and Splash-It 2?
The Splash-It is 2-1/4 inches and 1/4 ounce. The Splash-It 2 is slightly larger at 2-3/4 inches and 3/8 ounce.

What species is this popper best for?
It is designed for freshwater topwater fishing, especially when targeting largemouth and smallmouth bass around shallow cover and open-water feeding lanes.

How should I retrieve it?
Use short rod-tip snaps to spit water forward, mix in pauses, and adjust the cadence until fish respond.

The Lobina Rico and Rio Rico Poppers give you two ways to put a baitfish-style surface presentation in front of bass. Their cupped mouths let you work short pops and splashes, then stop the lure near a promising target. A feather-dressed rear hook adds a finishing detail when you slow down and let the bait sit.

Picture an early-morning cast beside a dock: a short twitch breaks the surface, a pause lets the ripples spread, and the lure stays in the strike zone instead of racing past it. Choose the compact Rico for a smaller profile or the larger Rio Rico when you want more body size and casting weight.

Keep the Presentation Where Bass Can Find It

A fast-moving surface lure can leave a small feeding window too quickly. A popper lets you control both the disturbance and the time spent beside a dock corner, open pocket, or shoreline target. It is a useful choice when bass are looking up but need a slower presentation. The tradeoff: exposed treble hooks are better suited to open water and cover edges than thick grass or tangled wood.

Rico or Rio Rico?

Pick the Rico when you want a compact baitfish profile, especially around smaller forage or on calm water. Choose the Rio Rico for a larger profile and heavier lure. Match your rod's lure rating to the model rather than choosing by color alone. The variant selector combines model and color: options beginning with “RIO Rico” are the larger size.

Best For Surface-Feeding Bass

Use these poppers for largemouth and smallmouth bass with a pop-and-pause retrieve around points, docks, shoreline shade, and open lanes beside vegetation. Start during low-light periods, overcast weather, or calm to lightly rippled conditions when surface activity is visible. If wind and chop make it difficult to control the lure, change your position or switch presentations.

The Details Behind Each Pop

• Cupped mouth: creates surface disturbance with short rod-tip movements.
• Feather-dressed rear hook: adds a baitfish-style finishing touch.
• Gamakatsu hooks: supplied in model-specific sizes.
• Two distinct sizes: choose a compact or larger presentation without changing lure style.
• Multiple finishes: select a subdued, reflective, or solid-color look to suit your water and light.

Compare the Two Models

Make Each Twitch Count

Cast past the target when possible and allow the landing rings to settle. Use a short twitch with a little slack in the line, then pause. Try one or two pops followed by a longer rest before speeding up. Let the fish take the lure and the line tighten before sweeping the rod, rather than reacting to the splash alone.

Choose a rod rated for the selected lure weight with enough tip give to work treble-hook baits. For a straightforward popper setup, consider Sunline Supernatural Clear Monofilament, matching line strength to your rod and surrounding cover.

Tackle Express Tips

• Change the pause first: if bass follow without committing, let the lure sit longer before changing colors.
• Start with contrast: try translucent finishes in clear, bright conditions or a solid silhouette in lower light, then let fish response guide your next choice.
• Keep a second surface option ready: when bass want a moving, side-to-side presentation instead of a stationary popper, try the Heddon Super Spook Jr. walking bait.

Questions Before Your First Cast

What is the difference between Rico and Rio Rico?
The Rico is 2 3/8 inches and 1/4 ounce; the Rio Rico is 2 7/8 inches and 7/16 ounce. Choose based on the profile you want and your rod's lure rating.

Should I retrieve it continuously?
Start with short pops separated by pauses. Increase the pace if fish respond to movement, or lengthen the pause when they follow but hesitate.

Can I fish it through heavy vegetation?
The exposed treble hooks can catch grass and wood. Work open pockets and vegetation edges rather than pulling it through dense cover.

Choose your Rico or Rio Rico model and color above, and get your next surface-fishing setup ready with Tackle Express.

The Savage Gear 3D Shine Glide 185 is a slow sinking erratic swimming glide bait. These baits have been deadly on a multitude of game fish from largemouth bass to musky. On a slow retrieve the bait glides from side to side. A pop of the rod tip will increase the darting action. Deadly on a twitch and stop retrieve.

We like to fish this bait slowly with a steady retrieve but there are times when we twitch the rod tip.  It washes out if its fished too quickly and we usually get bit on a slow and steady retrieve.  Another favorite method is to start twitching it as soon as it hits the surface.  A slow methodical upward pump of the rod tip while slowly turning the handle makes this bait flop back and forth on the surface.  Keeping this going can keep the bait in the strike zone longer, giving the fish an irresistible presentation.  

We fish the Savage Gear 3D Roach Shine Glide 185mm on 20lb line with a medium fast action 7'6" rod.  Try one out, we think you'll like it.

We all know longer casts mean more water covered and the Rapala X-Rap Long Cast allows you to do just that.  Rapala has increased the weight of the 14 size to 1 7/8oz from the original X-Rap which weighs 1 1/2oz.  That's 3/8oz more weight for approximately 25% additional casting distance.  If you make 100 casts at 30 feet per cast you'd cover 3000 feet.  By using the Rapala X-Rap Long Cast, that means you will cover 750 more feet in the same period of time!  That a lot of acreage covered just by using this lure.  

We are excited about fishing this long cast version for yellowtail, calico bass, and tuna.  Often times the fish are boat shy and getting just a few yards more on a cast can make that difference between a good day and a great day.  They all feature 3X strong VMC single tin hooks for maximum penetration and strength.

Sinking 

Silent (No rattles, we like that!)

Size 12 - Swim Depth 4-5 feet, 4-3/4" Long, 1-1/4oz

Size 14 - Swim Depth 4-5 fee, 5-1/2" Long, 1-7/8oz

The amazing detail and incredible action of the Jackall Rerange Jerkbait is unmatched by any other jerkbait.  This 110 size jerkbait will dive about 4 feet while making a high pitched rolling action.  When twitched and jerked, the darting action has purpose and won't have regular movements enticing more strikes.  

Engineered with an advanced “TG Zero Friction” weight transfer system, the Jackall Rerange Jerkbait features a fluororesin covered tungsten weight, which slides from end-to-end to extend casting distance and enhance action.

Unmatched in outright attraction, the Jackall Rerange Jerkbait produces an erratic, yet balanced lurch that lets bass know that there’s an easy meal within reach. Offered in a number of highly detailed colors, the Jackall Rerange Jerkbait is built with advanced internals that produce superior performance.

The advanced, zero friction weight transfer system allows anglers to cast farther and bring the fish to the bait for an easy catch. With realistic paint jobs and the right action, the Jackall Rerange Jerkbait is an excellent choice for anglers looking to score big.

There is perhaps no other jerkbait that is more coveted than the Megabass Vision OneTen.  The tungsten weights increase casting distance and allow for a more slender bait, reducing drag in the water when retrieved.  

The Katsuage hooks that come stock on the Vision 110 are light wire for easy penetration correct balance.  Megabass intends this bait to be fished on light line, preferably 6 to 10lb pound test.  Using light line allows the bait to reach its optimal swimming depth of four to six feet, but also enables the bait to move more freely in the water.  

Retrieved properly, the Vision 110 not only darts from side to side but it does so in an arching fashion shooting up, and then back down as you jerk your rod tip.  Additionally, as the bait is being pulled in the water it moves sideways from top to bottom giving off a color and flash, but it also has a rear movement from side to side.  Heavier line and hooks have the potential to impede action taking the bait out of its factory tuned equilibrium.

Lucky Craft Slender Pointer MR Jerkbait

Designed for anglers who know that a slimmer profile triggers more strikes, the Lucky Craft Slender Pointer MR is the answer to what smallmouth bass fishermen have been asking for. Built on the legendary Pointer Minnow platform, this slender-bodied jerkbait cuts through the water column with a tight, darting action that drives bass wild — especially in clear, cold water when fish are finicky and need a reason to commit.

Rig it up, work it with sharp twitches and pauses, and feel the difference a slender profile makes when bass are keying on shad, minnows, or other slender forage.

Best For

• Species: Smallmouth Bass, Largemouth Bass, Spotted Bass, Walleye, Striped Bass
• Techniques: Jerkbait fishing, twitch-and-pause, suspending presentations, cold-water finesse
• Conditions: Clear water, cold fronts, post-spawn, early spring, late fall
• Water: Lakes, reservoirs, rivers, rocky points, main lake structure

Features

• Slender minnow profile triggers strikes from pressured and finicky bass
• Lucky Craft patented magnetic weight transfer system for long, accurate casts even in wind
• Three razor-sharp Daiichi treble hooks for maximum hook-up ratio wherever fish strike
• Suspending action at 50°F — stays in the strike zone during pauses
• Available in two sizes: 97mm and 112mm
• Premium finishes in proven fish-catching color patterns

Specs

The Only Topwater Hardbait That Looks Like a Soft Stick

The Ima Skimmer 110 is unlike any other hard plastic topwater stickbait on the market. While every other walking hardbait has a fat, rounded body, the Skimmer is built with the slender, pencil-thin profile of a 5" soft plastic stickbait — the most proven bass-catching shape in freshwater fishing. That slim silhouette is something bass have been conditioned to eat for decades, and the Skimmer is the only topwater hardbait that delivers it.

The Boil That Seals the Deal

The Skimmer's tail-weighted design creates a one-of-a-kind surface action. On every zig and zag, the weighted tail end stirs the water into a large, violent boil — and then the Skimmer slips out just ahead of it, like a desperate baitfish narrowly escaping a bass's lunge. That boil-and-escape sequence is irresistible. It triggers the predatory instinct in bass that have seen every other topwater presentation and shut down.

Why Fat-Bodied Walking Baits Miss the Mark

Traditional walking baits like the Zara Spook have a wide, rounded body that produces a smooth glide. The Skimmer's slender profile creates a completely different visual trigger — one that more closely mimics the slim, darting profile of a shad, herring, or alewife. On pressured fisheries where bass have seen every fat-bodied walking bait in the box, the Skimmer's unique silhouette and boil action stands out.

Slim Profile, Maximum Action

At 4.25 in (110mm) and 7/16 oz, the Skimmer is perfectly sized for medium-action spinning or baitcasting gear. It walks easily with minimal rod work, casts exceptionally well for its size, and the tail-weighted balance keeps it riding low in the water — maximizing contact with the surface and amplifying that signature boil on every direction change.

The Right Pick If...

• Fat-bodied walking baits are getting ignored on pressured water
• You want a topwater with a slim, soft-plastic-style profile
• You're targeting largemouth or smallmouth bass feeding on shad, herring, or alewives
• You want a walking bait that creates a dramatic surface boil on every twitch
• You fish clear water where a natural, slender profile makes a difference

Best Retrieve Techniques

• Walk the Dog: Rhythmic rod-tip twitches with a steady retrieve — the Skimmer walks easily and the tail boils on every direction change
• Pause and Walk: Walk 3–5 times, pause, then walk again — the pause lets the boil settle and often triggers strikes from following fish
• Slow Walk: Slower cadence for finicky fish or post-front conditions — the slim profile stays in the strike zone longer
• Twitch and Pause: Single twitches with long pauses — deadly when bass are lethargic or in post-spawn recovery

Best Conditions

• Calm to lightly choppy surface — the boil action is most visible in calmer water
• Low-light periods — early morning and late evening when bass are most active on top
• Post-spawn through fall when bass are chasing shad and herring on the surface
• Clear water fisheries where a natural, slender profile triggers more strikes
• Pressured lakes where fat-bodied walking baits have been picked apart

Best For

• Species: Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Striped Bass, White Bass
• Techniques: Topwater Walking, Walk-the-Dog, Pause-and-Walk, Twitch-and-Pause
• Conditions: Calm surface, low-light, post-spawn, clear water, pressured fisheries

Key Features

• Slender soft-plastic-style profile — the only topwater hardbait with this silhouette
• Tail-weighted design creates a violent surface boil on every direction change
• 4.25 in (110mm) body length
• 7/16 oz weight — ideal for medium-action spinning or baitcasting gear
• Walks easily with minimal rod work
• Exceptional casting distance for its size
• 12 color patterns to match any forage or water condition

Models & Colors

Tackle Express Tips

• Go Light on Gear: The Skimmer shines on a 7' medium spinning rod with 10–15 lb braid and a 10 lb fluorocarbon leader. The lighter setup lets the bait walk more freely and enhances the tail boil action.
• Match Color to Forage: In shad-heavy lakes, go with American Shad, Real Ghost Shad, or Ghost Minnow. In herring fisheries, Blueback Herring and Ghost Chartreuse Herring are deadly. In clear water, Chrome and Chattahoochee Chrome create maximum flash.
• Use a Loop Knot: A Rapala loop knot gives the Skimmer maximum freedom of movement and enhances the walking action and tail boil, especially at slower retrieve speeds.

FAQ

How is the Ima Skimmer 110 different from other walking baits?
The Skimmer has a slender, pencil-thin body profile that mimics a soft plastic stickbait — something no other topwater hardbait offers. Combined with its tail-weighted boil action, it presents a completely different visual trigger than fat-bodied walking baits like the Zara Spook.

What rod and line setup works best?
A 7'–7'2" medium spinning rod with 10–15 lb braid and a 10–12 lb fluorocarbon leader is ideal. The Skimmer can also be fished on a medium baitcaster, but spinning gear gives it the most natural walking action.

Is the Ima Skimmer 110 good for smallmouth bass?
Absolutely. The slim profile and natural shad/herring color options make it a top smallmouth bait, especially in clear water lakes and rivers where smallmouth are keyed in on slender baitfish.

The Megabass Vision 110 Jr. harnesses the winning features of the highly acclaimed Vision 110 jerkbait in a compact 98mm (3.85in) size, delivering a high level of action per inch that outshines even its larger counterpart.

The expertly crafted Vision 110 Jr. has been revamped from the ground up to enhance the dynamic movements of the original and broaden the jerkbait series. Distilled from the ONETEN, this smaller version showcases exaggerated darting and rolling patterns, as well as enticing wobbling and rolling actions. Thanks to the dual-tungsten weights of the Megabass Multiway Moving Balancer System (PAT.), this compact lure offers exceptional casting distance.

The Deps Slide Swimmer 250 returns in a new and improved form as the ultimate trophy bass swimbait. Now constructed with a durable, hard-injected plastic core that ensures every bait is perfectly uniform, while still covered in the familiar soft coating that gives the Slide Swimmer its incredibly lifelike feel and legendary action.

The revolutionary upgrade features Deps' unique inner spring system within the head of the Slide Swimmer. When the bait is paused, this spring continues to send off micro-vibrations that entice even the wariest trophy bass into striking. This proven technology, tested and refined through years of development, adds a critical triggering element that separates the Slide Swimmer from all other big baits.

At 10 inches (250mm) and 6.5 ounces, the Slide Swimmer 250 is the ultimate weapon for targeting giant bass that feed on large trout, gizzard shad, and other substantial forage. The soft outer coating creates realistic swimming action with subtle body roll, while the hard inner core provides the structural integrity needed for long casts and repeated battles with trophy fish. The combination of visual realism, natural swimming motion, and continuous micro-vibrations makes this the go-to bait for serious trophy bass hunters.

Key Features:

• Hard-Injected Plastic Core: Durable construction ensures uniform performance and exceptional longevity
• Soft Outer Coating: Familiar soft covering creates lifelike feel and realistic swimming action
• Inner Spring System: Sends continuous micro-vibrations even when paused, triggering strikes from following giants
• Proven Technology: Refined vibration system tested on trophy bass worldwide
• Realistic Swimming Action: Natural body roll and tail movement mimics large baitfish
• Premium Japanese Craftsmanship: Meticulous attention to detail in construction and finish
• Trophy-Class Size: 10" length and 6.5oz weight designed for double-digit bass
• Legendary Performance: Proven track record of catching bass over 10 pounds

Specifications:

• Length: 10 inches (250mm)
• Weight: 6.5 oz
• Type: Slow-sinking hard swimbait with soft outer coating
• Target Species: Trophy largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, striped bass, muskie, pike

Retrieve Techniques:

• Slow Steady Retrieve: Natural swimming action for cruising baitfish presentation
• Stop-and-Go: Pause to activate inner spring micro-vibrations and trigger following fish
• Slow Roll: Deep, methodical retrieve along bottom structure and ledges
• Wake Retrieve: Surface or subsurface wake for aggressive trophy bass

Slide Swimmer Series Comparison:

Ideal Applications:

• Trophy bass fishing in large reservoirs and lakes
• Deep structure, ledges, and drop-offs
• Points, humps, and offshore structure
• When bass are feeding on large trout or gizzard shad
• Clear to moderately stained water
• Targeting double-digit largemouth and smallmouth

When you're hunting for the bass of a lifetime and need a swimbait that combines proven performance with innovative triggering technology, the Deps Slide Swimmer 250 is the ultimate choice for serious trophy bass anglers.