In this video, professional angler Jonathon VanDam shows how effective topwater fishing can be in late summer—even during the heat of the day. While most anglers limit topwater to early morning or evening hours, VanDam demonstrates how to keep the bite going all day long by focusing on the right conditions, structure, and bait presentation.
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Topwater Action Beyond Sunrise
Many think topwater is only productive when light is low, but that’s not always true. VanDam proves bass are willing to feed on the surface much longer, especially when the water is calm and clear. With subtle presentations and proper lure cadence, he continues to draw strikes well into the afternoon.
Reading Grass Flats and Shallow Edges
VanDam targets shallow grass areas with distinct edges and scattered clumps. These zones offer perfect ambush points for bass pushing baitfish or cruising in search of bluegill. By covering water efficiently and paying attention to fish behavior, he locates high-percentage areas where topwater baits shine—even in full sun.
Adjusting Bait Size and Cadence
When bass strike short or miss the lure, VanDam changes things up. He swaps out lure sizes and tweaks his cadence to get fish to commit. These small changes often lead to more hookups, especially when fishing pressure or weather shifts affect how fish behave.
Topwater That Works in Late Summer
With the right conditions, topwater remains effective throughout the day in late summer. Calm water, grass cover, and active fish make it possible to keep surface baits in play far longer than most anglers expect. VanDam’s approach highlights how to stay productive, stay flexible, and keep catching bass—long after the early bite ends.
Boat Setup
- FISH FINDER – Humminbird APEX 16 CHIRP MEGA SI+: Buy at Bass Pro Shops
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