What’s more exciting than a topwater explosion? You see the boil, you hear the splash, and then the fight begins! Targeting redfish on the surface is an adrenaline rush unlike any other. But when you stand in the tackle shop, faced with rows of colorful, strange-looking lures, confusion sets in fast. Which one truly calls in that hungry bull red?
Choosing the right topwater lure for redfish can feel like guesswork. Some lures just spin out or spook the fish instead of triggering a strike. You want the right action, the right sound, and the right profile to fool these powerful inshore predators. Frustration mounts when your favorite lure produces nothing but silence.
This guide cuts through the noise. We will break down the absolute best topwater plugs that consistently draw violent strikes from redfish. You will learn exactly what makes each lure effective, when to use it, and how to work it for maximum results. Prepare to upgrade your topwater game right now.
Top Topwater Lures For Redfish Recommendations
- Slow-sinking twitch/walking lure with erratic action mimics prominent in-shore forage and catches all species of inshore game-fish, including speckled trout, redfish, striped bass and more.
- Can be fished quickly across the surface in a walk-the-dog fashion to catch active fish hitting the surface, but also can be walked slowly under the surface to catch more inactive fish.
- Strong, #2 saltwater grade hooks and durable corrosion-resistant body and hardware to handle the toughest conditions and even the toothiest fish.
- Features a unique super-slow-sinking action that catches fish with a variety of retrieves; Weighs 5/8-ounce and casts well even against the ever-present wind.
- Effective size and colors: At 3 ½-inches in length, the Mullet fits into the most-effective size category to appeal to all inshore fish; Available in 8 saltwater-specific color patterns that fish love.
- Attractive Apperance:The bait body adopts bright and contrasting colors to stimulate the target fish's desire to attack. Making it a great tool for fishing.
- High Quality: Three hooks with barbs, quick and not easy to unhook, which are corrosion-resistant and have a strong piercing ability, and will give you the fishing experience.
- Special Design: Keeping the heart down can effectively reduce the flipping of the bait during the throwing process, avoiding entanglement.
- Wide Application:The Lure covers a variety of conditions both saltwater and freshwater.Widely targeting at predator fishes such as bass, yellow perch, walleye.
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- Species: Redfish, Speckled Trout, Bass
- Cranking Depth: Topwater
- Hooks: #2 saltwater treble hooks
- Lure Length: 5"
- A great multi-specie topwater lure will catch bass, striper pick and muskie with its renowned "walk the dog" action
- HOOK DESIGN: 2 super-sharp hooks, especially important for scholing striper and other hard-charging species; Fish don't simply hit the Super Spook. They attack it
- VERSITILE LURE: Super-stout hardware system, from line ties to hooks, all designed to stand up to the most voracious species
- STRONG AND DURABLE MATERIAL: Features tough construction and good looks for explosive results
- EFFECTIVE SIZE AND COLORS: 3 1/2 inch length; 1/2 oz weight for topwater fishing
- FISHING TECHNIQUE: "Walk the Dog" cast and retrieve with erratic action simulating a wounded baitfish
- Includes bone, baby bass and foxy shad
- Combines a trio of anglers' favorite colors into one
- Staples in tackle boxes for anglers
- For targeting everything from largemouth bass to stripers to speckled trout
- Features super sharp treble hooks
- LARGE FISHING: Pencil Popper lure comes in 6 and 7 inch options and known for ideal lures for big fish
- WEIGHTED TAIL: Weight at the tail end of the fishing lure produces potent action and long casts
- VERSITILE BAIT: Cordell Pencil Popper original for striped bass fishing, but effective for all big gamefish
- TOUGH AND DURABLE: Lure built tough enough to handle stripers, bass, musky and redfish
- FISHING LURE TECHNIQUE: Walk the Dog technique helps attract the fish with lifelike action
- BERKLEY CUTTER SALTWATER FISHING BAIT: Designed to deliver results in any situation, the Berkley Cutter Saltwater suspending jerk bait is a great addition to any saltwater angler's tackle box.
- ERRATIC ACTION: These fishing lures deliver erratic rolling action and maximum flash to attract fish in any region or environment. A shallow pitched bill is designed to target fish higher in the water column.
- SHARP AND STOUT FUSION19 HOOKS: Equipped with sticky sharp Fusion19 hooks for easy penetration and great holding ability even in the toughest fights. Stainless steel hardware stands up to harsh saltwater conditions.
- VERSATILE LURE: Fish the Cutter with twitch, jerk, pause, rip, burn and standard retrieves. Its size is perfect for imitating smaller baitfish and capable of targeting multiple species.
- PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS: Lure Size: 1/3 oz, 2.75in. Color: Redfish. Swimming Depth: 3ft-5ft. Hook Size: 8. Number of Hooks: 2.
- The Heddon Super Spook Boyo measures just below the renowned Super Spook Junior at three inches and weighs around 3/8 ounces
- This smaller stature is perfect to imitate small threadfin shads which are abundant across the country and to better fit fishing situations on smaller bodies of water like ponds and creeks
- Don't limit this lure due to its stature because it can still be cast a country mile and bring the biggest bass to the top with its unique single rattle
- New colors blend baitfish tones and color combinations that have been proven to produce popular saltwater predators including redfish speckled trout and snook
- Same great Spook walking action
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Topwater Lures for Redfish
Catching redfish on a topwater lure is one of the most exciting ways to fish. These lures splash and pop right on the surface, making big fish explode to eat them. This guide helps you pick the best topwater lure for your next redfish trip.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a topwater lure, look closely at these main features. They decide how well the lure works.
1. Action and Sound
- Walk-the-Dog Action: The best topwater lures glide side-to-side when you twitch the rod tip. This “walk-the-dog” movement looks like an injured baitfish.
- Sputter and Pop: Some lures are designed to splash water or make a loud ‘pop’ sound when retrieved. Redfish often strike loud noises.
- Vibration: A good lure should create subtle vibrations that fish can feel, even if they don’t see it clearly.
2. Size and Profile
Redfish eat many different sizes of bait. Generally, lures between 3 to 6 inches work best. Choose a size that matches the natural bait fish in the area you are fishing. A smaller profile works well in clear water. A larger profile creates more splash in choppy water.
3. Hook Quality
Redfish have tough mouths. You need strong hooks. Look for heavy-duty, corrosion-resistant treble hooks. Cheap hooks bend easily when a big redfish bites down hard.
Important Materials
The material of your lure affects how it floats, how long it lasts, and how it sounds.
Body Construction
- Hard Plastics (ABS): Most topwater lures use tough plastic. This material is durable and allows for realistic paint jobs. High-quality plastic resists cracking when hitting docks or rocks.
- Wood: Some premium lures use wood. Wood lures often have a unique, natural sound and buoyancy that fish love. However, wood can sometimes absorb water over time.
Hardware
Always check the connection points. Strong split rings and quality swivels prevent fish from twisting the lure apart. Stainless steel components resist rust in saltwater environments.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all topwater lures are created equal. A few details separate the great lures from the frustrating ones.
Quality Boosters
- Weight Balance: A well-balanced lure floats correctly. If the nose points too far down, it will dive instead of staying on top. Good balance ensures a perfect retrieve.
- Paint Jobs: Bright, realistic colors attract strikes. Durable paint prevents chipping, keeping the lure looking natural longer.
Quality Reducers
Watch out for lures with thin plastic walls. These break easily. Also, avoid lures where the line tie (where you attach your fishing line) is weak or poorly seated. A poor line tie ruins the lure’s action.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about where and when you plan to use the lure. This helps decide the best style.
Shallow Water Flats (Slow Retrieve)
When fishing skinny water, you need a lure that stays on top without diving. A soft, slow “walk-the-dog” retrieve works best here. Use natural colors like bone or silver.
Tidal Creeks and Choppy Water (Aggressive Action)
In rougher water, you need a lure that makes noise. Poppers or chuggers that displace a lot of water grab the redfish’s attention from far away. Brighter colors like chartreuse or glow work well.
Early Morning/Late Evening
These low-light times are prime topwater hours. Redfish are aggressive. A lure with rattles inside can seal the deal when visibility is low.
Topwater Lures for Redfish: 10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best time of day to use topwater lures for redfish?
A: Early morning (first light) and late evening (last light) are the best times. Redfish feed actively when the sun is low.
Q: Should I use a leader with my topwater lure?
A: Yes. Use a short, clear fluorocarbon leader (about 18-24 inches). This helps hide your line, but it must be short enough so the leader does not interfere with the lure’s action.
Q: Do I need to use a swivel with topwater lures?
A: Swivels prevent line twist, which is common with walking baits. Using a small, high-quality ball-bearing swivel often improves the lure’s side-to-side movement.
Q: What retrieve speed is best for a ‘walk-the-dog’ lure?
A: Use short, quick twitches of your rod tip while reeling in slowly. This makes the lure dart left and right in a wide pattern.
Q: Are topwater lures effective for large bull reds?
A: Yes, large bull reds will definitely strike topwater baits, especially larger poppers. They chase down anything that looks like a big meal.
Q: What is the difference between a Popper and a Walker?
A: A Popper has a cupped face that splashes water (chugs). A Walker has a slimmer body designed to glide side-to-side (walk-the-dog).
Q: How do I keep my topwater lure floating correctly?
A: Always check the lure before casting. If it sits nose-down in the water, it is waterlogged or unbalanced. Avoid cheap lures that absorb water easily.
Q: What hook setup is best for preventing missed strikes?
A: Many anglers replace the rear treble hook with a quality single assist hook. This gives the fish a better chance to grab the hook and reduces snags.
Q: Can I use topwater lures in saltwater flats that have grass?
A: Yes, but you must be careful. Use a lure that floats high. If the lure gets hung in the grass, pause it briefly; sometimes the pause triggers a strike as the lure floats up off the obstruction.
Q: What is the most important color for redfish topwater lures?
A: White or bone color is a universal favorite because it mimics many common baitfish. However, always match the local forage color.