# **How to Choose Fly Fishing Poppers and Topwater Lures for Bass, Crappie, Bluegill, and Sunfish**
Fly fishing poppers and topwater lures are among the most exciting and effective tools for targeting species like bass, crappie, bluegill, and sunfish. The visual thrill of seeing a fish strike on the surface is unmatched, making these lures a favorite among anglers. However, selecting the right popper or topwater lure requires understanding key factors such as size, color, action, and design. In this guide, we’ll break down how to choose the best lures for your next fishing adventure.
## **1. Understanding Poppers and Topwater Lures**
Poppers are a type of topwater lure designed to create a splashing or “popping” sound when retrieved, mimicking distressed prey on the water’s surface. They typically have a concave or cupped face that displaces water when jerked, attracting fish. Other topwater lures, such as walking baits or prop baits, produce different actions but serve the same purpose—drawing strikes from aggressive fish.
## **2. Choosing the Right Size**
– **Bass**: Larger poppers (1.5″ to 3″) work best for bass, as they create more disturbance and appeal to their predatory nature.
– **Crappie, Bluegill, and Sunfish**: Smaller poppers (0.75″ to 1.5″) are ideal, as these fish have smaller mouths and are less likely to strike oversized lures.
## **3. Selecting the Best Colors**
Color selection depends on water clarity and light conditions:
– **Clear Water**: Natural colors like white, yellow, or frog patterns work well.
– **Stained/Murky Water**: Brighter colors (chartreuse, orange) or darker shades (black, brown) increase visibility.
– **Low Light (Dawn/Dusk)**: Darker lures create better silhouettes.
## **4. Action and Retrieval Techniques**
– **Poppers**: Use short, sharp jerks to create a “bloop” sound followed by pauses. This mimics a struggling insect or baitfish.
– **Walking Baits**: A steady “walk-the-dog” retrieve (side-to-side motion) is deadly for bass.
– **Prop Baits**: These create a buzzing sound with their spinning blades, great for aggressive fish.
## **5. Hook Quality and Durability**
Ensure the lure has sharp, rust-resistant hooks. Many anglers upgrade stock hooks for better penetration, especially when targeting hard-mouthed bass.
## **6. Best KyleBooker Poppers & Topwater Lures**
At **KyleBooker**, we offer premium fly fishing poppers and topwater lures designed for maximum effectiveness:
– **KB Bass Popper Series**: Heavy-duty construction for big bass strikes.
– **KB Panfish Poppers**: Compact and lightweight for bluegill and crappie.
– **KB Prop Walker**: A hybrid topwater lure with a unique buzzing action.
## **Final Tips for Success**
– Fish early morning or late evening when topwater action is hottest.
– Experiment with retrieve speeds—sometimes a slow, subtle pop works better than aggressive splashing.
– Match the hatch—observe natural prey in your fishing area and mimic their colors and movements.
By selecting the right popper or topwater lure, you’ll increase your chances of landing more bass, crappie, bluegill, and sunfish. Visit **KyleBooker** for high-quality lures designed to enhance your fly fishing experience!
**Happy fishing!** 🎣
