Best Fishing Topwater Lures of 2026

Paul Tilton Avatar
Paul Tilton
Last Updated: Jan 18, 2026

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Fishing topwater lures are a popular choice among anglers who enjoy the excitement of surface strikes. These lures mimic the movements of baitfish and insects that swim on the surface, attracting predatory fish like bass, pike, and musky. Topwater lures come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, each designed to mimic a specific type of prey. Some popular styles include poppers, prop baits, and walking baits. Anglers can experiment with different types of topwater lures to find the perfect match for the fish they are targeting and the conditions they are fishing in.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

TRUSCEND Fishing Lures for Bass Trout Cover #TOP 1
TRUSCEND Fishing Lures for Bass Trout
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Heddon Saltwater Super Spook Jr - 3 Pack Cover #TOP 2
Heddon Saltwater Super Spook Jr - 3 Pack
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Heddon Torpedo Prop-Bait Topwater Fishing Lure Cover #TOP 3
Heddon Torpedo Prop-Bait Topwater Fishing Lure
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Fishing Topwater Lures

#TOP 1

TRUSCEND Fishing Lures for Bass Trout

J8A01-03
A-5.4",0.9oz
5.4in (13.7cm)
TRUSCEND Fishing Lures for Bass Trout Cover
TRUSCEND Easy Catch Swimmax, Magic Noisy Turbulent Wiggling and Vibrating Actions for More Bites, Segmented Swimbait Jointed by Dyneema Strongest Fiber, Lifelike Fishing Lures for Relax Family Fishing

TRUSCEND Fishing Lures for Bass Trout is an 8-segment lifelike lure designed to sink slowly and move flexibly in water. It has a realistic appearance that easily cheats target fishes and emits fish sound waves to provoke feeding urges. It is suitable for both saltwater and freshwater fishing and can catch bass, yellow perch, walleye, pike, muskie, roach, trout, snook, salmon, and more.

What We Like
Realistic swimming action
Sharp, strong hooks
Excellent color variety
Effective for multiple fish species
High quality construction
What We Don't Like
Minor color variation
Hooks could be thinner
#TOP 2

Heddon Saltwater Super Spook Jr - 3 Pack

PK3X9236-2
Bone
Small
Heddon Saltwater Super Spook Jr - 3 Pack Cover
Heddon Saltwater Super Spook Jr - 3 Pack PK3X9236-2,Multi,One Size

The Heddon Saltwater Super Spook Jr - 3 Pack is a set of topwater lures that features 3 Super Spook Jr. lures with tough construction, dazzling colors, realistic finishes, and strong, sharp hooks. The lures are perfect for walk-the-dog presentations and offer rugged line tines.

What We Like
Great value 3-pack
Effective for inshore and freshwater
Excellent casting distance
Versatile color options
Reliable topwater action
What We Don't Like
Minor size confusion possible
#TOP 3

Heddon Torpedo Prop-Bait Topwater Fishing Lure

PK3HD2
Heddon Torpedo Prop-Bait Topwater Fishing Lure Cover
Heddon Torpedo Prop-Bait Topwater Fishing Lure with Spinner Action, Triple Threat 3-Pack, Triple Threat 3-Pack

The Heddon Torpedo Prop-Bait Topwater Fishing Lure with Spinner Action is a top-quality fishing lure made in China. It is constructed with premium materials and is designed to deliver an exceptional fishing experience. This lure is perfect for those who enjoy fishing for topwater species and is a must-have addition to any angler's tackle box.

What We Like
Consistent bass-catching performance
Effective topwater action
Natural colors and variety
Trusted brand reputation
Good value for three lures
What We Don't Like
Action not especially unique
#TOP 4

Rebel Lures Pop-R Topwater Popper Fishing Lure

PK3RB3
3 pack
Rebel Lures Pop-R Topwater Popper Fishing Lure Cover
Rebel Lures Pop-R Topwater Popper Fishing Lure, Triple Threat 3 Pack, Pop-R (1/4 oz), One Size

Experience topwater fun and excitement with Rebel Lures Pop-R Topwater Popper Fishing Lure. This legendary topwater bait has been the standard by which all topwater poppers/chuggers have been judged for over 30 years. The Triple Threat 3 Pack includes three of the most popular Pop-Rs in the best bass catching color patterns: Foxy Momma, Foxy Shad, and Foxy Lady. It's a fantastic outdoor lifestyle sport for anglers who want to win hundreds of thousands of dollars in bass tournaments.

What We Like
Highly effective for bass
Durable against snags
Long casting distance
Excellent water disturbance
Great value for quality
What We Don't Like
Minor finish quality concerns
Attachment to leader can be tricky
#TOP 5

Berkley Choppo Topwater Fishing Lure

1487256
MF Shad
90mm - 1/2 oz
Berkley Choppo Topwater Fishing Lure Cover
Berkley Choppo Topwater Fishing Lure, MF Shad, Size 90, Cupped Propeller Tail for Balance of Sound and Spray, Equipped with Sharp Fusion19TM Hook

The Berkley Choppo Lure is a topwater bait designed for explosive action. Its precise balance allows for immediate enticing movement, perfect for use in various speeds and environments. The durable cupped propeller tail creates significant disturbance even at slower speeds, while the sharp Fusion19 hooks ensure easy penetration and strong hold during tough fights. With a lure size of 1/2 oz and 90mm, and a swimming depth of topwater, the Berkley Choppo Lure in MF Shad color is a versatile option for anglers seeking a reliable and effective fishing experience.

What We Like
Effective topwater action
Attracts bass easily
Reasonable pricing
Quick shipping
Works in various conditions
What We Don't Like
Small hook-up ratio
#TOP 6

ReeMoo Fishing Lures for Bass

Yellow
Medium
ReeMoo Fishing Lures for Bass Cover
ReeMoo Fishing Lures for Bass, Topwater Fishing Lures, Multi Jointed Swimbaits, Lifelike Slow Sinking Swimming Bass Lures for Freshwater and Seawater Fishing Accessories

ReeMoo Bass Lures are topwater fishing lures designed for both freshwater and seawater fishing. With their multi-joint design, these swimbaits have eight sections that allow them to move flexibly and sink slowly in the water, attracting predatory fish. The lifelike appearance, complete with 3D realistic eyes and pearl powder coating, make these lures resemble real fish. The upgraded sharp hooks, located on the head and tail, have barbs and triple strength, ensuring a secure hook in the fish's mouth. Additionally, the built-in steel ball and engineering counterweight make these lures easy to throw from a long distance. Suitable for catching bass, yellow perch, trout, salmon, and more, ReeMoo Bass Lures are a versatile choice for all water layers.

What We Like
Realistic swimming action
High durability
Great casting weight
Excellent value for money
Surreal appearance
What We Don't Like
Haven't caught fish yet
#TOP 7

Heddon Super Spook Fishing Lure 3-Pack

PK3X9236-1
Multi
3-Pack
Heddon Super Spook Fishing Lure 3-Pack Cover
Heddon Super Spook Topwater Fishing Lure for Saltwater and Freshwater, Multi, 3-Pack

The Heddon Super Spook Lures come in a convenient 3-pack featuring three popular colors: bone, baby bass, and foxy shad. These colors are widely loved by anglers because they help attract a variety of fish, making it easier for you to catch your target species. This set is a staple for any tackle box, ensuring you have reliable options ready for your fishing trips. Whether you're aiming to catch largemouth bass, stripers, or speckled trout, these lures have you covered with their proven effectiveness. The versatile color choices and dependable design make the Heddon Super Spook Lures a smart addition to your fishing gear.

What We Like
Excellent casting distance
Superb durability
Unbeatable "walk the dog" action
Effective for multiple fish species
Attractive color variety
#TOP 8

RTGSE Whopper 10Pc Topwater Bass Lures Kit

RTGSE
Medium
RTGSE Whopper 10Pc Topwater Bass Lures Kit Cover
RTGSE 10Pcs Whopper Fishing Lure for Bass Popper Top Water Fishing Lures with Floating Rotating Tail Barb Treble Hooks in Saltwater Freshwater Plopping Lures Kit

The RTGSE Whopper Bass Lures are designed with two body parts to create exciting water action that attracts fish. The front part looks like a typical pencil bait, while the rear has a spinning cupped tail that stirs up water, mimicking a buzzbait’s sound and movement. This feature helps you keep the lure in one spot, perfect for teasing fish that might miss a strike. You can also vary your retrieve speed to create splashes and noises, helping you find the best rhythm for the day. Plus, the lures come in eye-catching colors with reflective finishes and lifelike eyes, making them irresistible to bass and other species.

What We Like
Affordable price
Strong, sharp hooks
Good paint quality
Effective topwater action
Multiple color options
What We Don't Like
Durability could be better
Not ideal for vegetation
#TOP 9

Arbogast Triple Threat Fishing Lure Pack

PK3ARB2
3 pac
Arbogast Triple Threat Fishing Lure Pack Cover
Arbogast Triple Threat Fishing Lure, Includes 2 Jitterbug Lures and 1 Hula Popper Lure, Freshwater Fishing Lures and Accessories

The Arbogast Triple Threat Fishing Lure Pack includes 2 Jitterbug lures and 1 Hula Popper lure, providing you with the best size and color patterns for catching topwater fish. The Hula Popper has a pulsating skirt for high visibility to fish and is ideal for morning, noon, and night fishing, while the Jitterbug has a double-cupped lip that produces a loud, rhythmic, surface-busting sound that is irresistible to every known surface feeding fish. Both lures can be used over submerged timber, weeds, or grass beds.

What We Like
Proven bass-catching performance
Effective for night fishing
Economical three-pack value
Versatile topwater action
Classic, time-tested colors
What We Don't Like
Minor rust after first use
#TOP 10

BASSDASH SwimPanfish Multi Jointed Panfish Bluegill Swimbaits

Bluegill
One Size
BASSDASH SwimPanfish Multi Jointed Panfish Bluegill Swimbaits Cover
BASSDASH SwimPanfish Multi Jointed Panfish Bluegill Swimbaits Topwater Hard Bass Fishing Crank Lure 3.5in/0.85oz, 4 Colors (Bluegill)

The BASSDASH SwimPanfish Multi Jointed Panfish Bluegill Swimbaits are high quality and made of ABS material, making them durable for fighting fish. These swimbaits have a topwater depth of one to three feet and are designed with a 6-segment jointed 3D bluegill to create a realistic side-to-side swimming motion. The multi-section swimbaits also help to keep the fish hooked during the fight. These lures are heavily targeted by bass, pike, musky, and other gamefish.

What We Like
Realistic appearance
Strong hook quality
Great swimming action
Effective for large bass
Good value for price
What We Don't Like
Tail hook may snag
Sinks quickly for some needs
Buying Guide Image

Some Factors You Should Know About Fishing Topwater Lures

Understanding Topwater Lures

Before you can choose the best topwater lure for your fishing needs, it's important to understand what topwater lures are and how they work. Topwater lures are designed to be fished on the surface of the water and are typically used to target fish that feed near the surface, such as bass, pike, and panfish.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Topwater Lure

When choosing a topwater lure, there are a few key factors to consider. These include the type of fish you're targeting, the conditions of the water you're fishing in, and your personal fishing style.

Type of Fish

Different types of fish are attracted to different types of topwater lures. For example, bass are often attracted to topwater lures that mimic the movement of a wounded baitfish, while pike are more likely to be drawn to lures that mimic the movement of a frog or small mammal. It's important to choose a topwater lure that is designed to target the type of fish you're hoping to catch.

Water Conditions

The conditions of the water you're fishing in can also affect which topwater lure you choose. For example, in calm waters, a topwater lure with a slower, more subtle action may be more effective, while in choppy waters a lure with a faster, more erratic action may be more successful. It's important to choose a topwater lure that is well-suited to the conditions you're fishing in.

Personal Fishing Style

Your personal fishing style can also play a role in which topwater lure you choose. If you prefer a more active, fast-paced fishing experience, a topwater lure with a loud, attention-grabbing action may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle, relaxed fishing experience, a topwater lure with a slower, more natural action may be a better fit.

Tips for Using Topwater Lures

Once you've chosen the right topwater lure for your fishing needs, there are a few tips you can follow to improve your success rate. These include:

  • Vary your retrieve speed to see what the fish are responding to.
  • Experiment with different retrieves, such as a steady retrieve, a stop-and-go retrieve, or a jerk-and-pause retrieve.
  • Use a twitching or jerking motion to create a more natural, lifelike action in the water.
  • Pay attention to the surface of the water to see if there are any fish following your lure.
  • Be prepared to set the hook quickly when a fish strikes.

Conclusion

Choosing the right topwater lure for your fishing needs can be a bit of a challenge, but with a little knowledge and experimentation, you can find the perfect lure for the type of fish you're targeting and the conditions you're fishing in. By considering the type of fish, the conditions of the water, and your personal fishing style, you can select the ideal topwater lure to help you catch more fish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What lures to use for topwater?

Topwater lures for fishing come in various shapes, sounds, and actions. Some popular types include buzzbaits, chuggers/poppers, floating minnows, stickbaits, prop baits, frogs, crawlers, and spoons. Each of these lures has its own unique characteristics and can be effective in different fishing scenarios.

2. What time of year to fish topwater?

Topwater lures are effective for bass fishing during the spring, summer, and fall seasons. However, they are particularly successful during the bass spawn, which usually occurs in the spring. During this time, bass are more aggressive and protective, making them more likely to strike at topwater lures.

3. When should I start using Topwater?

Late fall, early spring, and late spring are ideal times to start using topwater lures for bass fishing. These are the periods when bass are often in their spawning areas and more likely to respond to topwater baits. It's during these times that topwater fishing can provide some exciting and memorable fishing experiences.

4. How do you know when to throw Topwater?

The best time to throw topwater lures is during early morning, late evening, or at night. During these low light conditions, the water temperature is cooler, and bass tend to stay closer to the surface. As the sun gets higher and brighter, bass may move deeper, making it less likely for them to strike topwater lures.

5. When should I stop throwing Topwater?

Topwater lures tend to be less effective when the sun is high and bright. The theory is that the bass may be blinded by the sun when they try to look up to the surface. During these conditions, it is recommended to switch to other lures like soft plastics that can be more enticing to bass.

Editor's Notes

During our fishing topwater lure research, we found 24 fishing topwater lure products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 84,574 customer reviews through our big data system to write the fishing topwater lures list. We found that most customers choose fishing topwater lures with an average price of $17.27.

The fishing topwater lures are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of fishing topwater lures, including TRUSCEND, Heddon, Rebel, Berkley, ReeMoo. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 525 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Paul Tilton Avatar

Paul Tilton is a fitness enthusiast. He doesn't like to work in front of a computer screen so he quit his job and runs a gym in Washington. He spent a lot of time on the road and has been a contributing writer for a well-known travel guide website. He is now happy to share his travel experience and professional knowledge of travel gear and fitness here.

Fishing Topwater Lures Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
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#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand TRUSCEND Heddon Heddon Rebel Berkley ReeMoo Heddon RTGSE Arbogast BASSDASH
Size 5.4in (13.7cm) Small Triple Threat 3-Pack 3 pack 90mm - 1/2 oz Medium 3-Pack Medium 3 pac One Size
Material Plastic Plastic Plastic Blend Plastic Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), Alloy Steel, Plastic Blend Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), Plastic Plastic Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)
Color A-5.4",0.9oz Black Shiner, Bone, Red Head Holographic Triple Threat 3-Pack Triple Threat 3 Pack MF Shad Yellow Multi - 2 Jitterbug, 1 Hula Popper Bluegill
Item Weight 0.9 Ounces 0.01 Ounces 0.08 Pounds 9.07 g 12.25 g - 0.06 Kilograms 13 Grams 2.4 ounces 0.85 Ounces
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.7
Where to Buy