Topwater bass fishing can produce some of the most aggressive bites of the year, especially on blueback herring lakes. In this video, Caz Anderson breaks down how he targets offshore spotted bass and largemouth bass with a topwater. From explosive surface strikes to fast-moving schools, Anderson shows why this topwater pattern stays effective from May through October.
Featured Product
- TOPWATER – Berkley Cane Walker: Buy at Bass Pro Shops | Buy at Tackle Warehouse
- ROD – Fenwick Eagle Casting Rod 7’5″ Heavy: Buy at Bass Pro Shops | Buy at Tackle Warehouse
- REEL – Abu Garcia Revo Rocket Casting Reel: Buy at Tackle Warehouse | Buy at FishUSA
- REEL – Abu Garcia Zenon X Baitcast Reel: Buy at Bass Pro Shops | Buy at Tackle Warehouse | Buy at FishUSA
- LINE – Berkley x9 Braided Line, 40-pound: Buy at Bass Pro Shops | Buy at Tackle Warehouse
Topwater Selection and Retrieve
Anderson relies on a large walking bait to imitate fast-moving herring. He explains why profile, speed, and sound all matter when topwater bass fishing offshore. Anderson also demonstrates how to work the bait aggressively to trigger reaction strikes from suspended fish. The key retrieve focuses on long casts and constant movement. Rather than slowing down after a strike, Anderson keeps the bait moving until the fish fully connects.
Forward-Facing Sonar Strategy
Forward-facing sonar plays a major role in offshore topwater bass fishing. Anderson explains how bass position around herring schools and why fish often appear high in the water column during summer. Additionally, he shares how to identify productive schools, position the boat efficiently, and rotate through multiple offshore spots throughout the day.
Topwater Rod, Reel, and Line Setup
For topwater bass fishing, a long rod and braided line help Anderson make long casts and maintain control during fights with big bass. He also explains why a heavy-power rod improves hook penetration and keeps treble-hooked fish pinned during long-distance battles.
Boat Setup
- FISH FINDER: Lowrance HDS-12 PRO: Buy at Bass Pro Shops | Buy at Tackle Warehouse | Buy at FishUSA
- FISH FINDER: Lowrance HDS-16 PRO: Buy at Bass Pro Shops | Buy at Tackle Warehouse | Buy at FishUSA
- TROLLING MOTOR – Minn Kota Ultrex QUEST: Buy at Bass Pro Shops
