Topwater Bass Fishing: Choose the RIGHT Bait Every Time

Topwater fishing is one of the most exciting ways to catch bass—but choosing the right bait can make all the difference. In this episode of Jon Thelen’s Destination Fish, Jon heads to Deer Lake to break down how to select the best topwater bait for the conditions and consistently catch more fish. If you’ve ever struggled to decide which bait to throw—or wondered why one works better than another—this episode is for you.
Topwater fishing isn’t just about throwing a lure on the surface and hoping for a strike. Different baits create different actions, sounds, and profiles, and understanding when to use each one is key. In this webisode, Jon explains how bass respond to various topwater presentations and how to match your bait to what fish want in that moment.
One of the biggest mistakes anglers make is sticking with one bait regardless of conditions. Jon walks through how to evaluate factors like water clarity, light conditions, wind, and fish activity to determine the best topwater option. These environmental factors play a major role in how bass react and what type of presentation will trigger bites.
This episode dives deep into the differences between topwater bait styles and how each one excels in certain situations. From subtle presentations to more aggressive, attention-grabbing baits, Jon demonstrates how to choose the right tool for the job and how to switch when conditions change.
Retrieval and cadence are just as important as bait selection, and Jon shows how to work each bait effectively. Small adjustments in speed, pauses, and movement can dramatically increase your success. Understanding how to present your bait naturally—and when to change things up—is a major focus of this episode.
Location is another key factor in topwater success. Jon explains where bass are most likely to strike on the surface, how to identify high-percentage areas, and how to approach them efficiently. Whether targeting shallow cover, edges, or open water, understanding where to fish is just as important as how you fish.
This episode also highlights how bass behavior changes throughout the day. Early morning, midday, and evening conditions can all influence the effectiveness of topwater presentations. Jon explains how to adjust your approach based on timing and how to maximize your opportunities during peak feeding windows.
Another important element is confidence. Topwater fishing can be visual and exciting, but it also requires patience and trust in your presentation. Jon shares how to stay committed, recognize subtle strikes, and improve your hook-up ratio.
As always, Destination Fish delivers real fishing in real conditions. No staged scenes, no shortcuts—just honest instruction and proven techniques. The Deer Lake bass bite in this episode showcases just how effective topwater fishing can be when you make the right choices.
Whether you’re new to topwater fishing or looking to refine your approach, this webisode is packed with practical tips you can apply immediately. Choosing the right bait doesn’t have to be complicated—and once you understand the basics, you’ll start catching more fish on the surface.