Donnie
Donnie is a founder of Basshogg, avid bass fisherman and cottager.
- August 22, 2023
- 6:59 pm
- No Comments
What is a Whopper Plopper?
The Whopper Plopper is sort of a hybrid between a traditional prop bait and a buzzbait. It floats like a prop bait, and has a similar profile, but its large flexible tail makes a loud plop plop sound when fished on a straight retrieve. While it was originally designed for Musky fishing, these baits have proved deadly when fishing all species of Bass.
Where Do I use it to Catch more Bass?
The best thing about the Whopper Plopper is that you can use it anywhere. If the Bass are energetic and active they’ll chase this lure like no other.
We also find it great in pressured water when the Bass might be a little lethargic. The really can’t seem to resist the plopping noise and the action it creates while skimming across the water.
The weight of the lure allows for long controlled casts. Use it to cover a lot of area and also work it around cover and structure.
Top Water Excitement!
Presentation is key when trying to catch largemouth and smallmouth bass. What works great one day may not work at all the next. Having different types of lures in your arsenal will boost your odds of catching more Bass.
Stick baits and jigs are considered vertical baits. When these stop generating interest, try switching it up to a vertical swimmer like a crank bait, a spinner or a whopper plopper.
If you haven’t had much luck with the top water, try of these baits out. Trust me, after a few bites you’ll be absolutely hooked!
What Else Do I Need to Know?
Pictured is a size chart. I tend to keep an assortment of 75 and 110’s handy. The idea though is to try to match the size of the natural batfish in you local fishing hole. If you’re further south and see Bass upwards and over 5 lbs then you might want to stock some 130’s.
The Whopper Plopper isn’t the only game in town. Check out this informative comparison video showing other similar baits. Don’t get stuck on the name brands just because!
Your line selection is important. When you get a strike, especially from a decent distance, you want a firm braided line. This will ensure you get that hook set.
Because it floats, the Whopper Plopper has some distinct advantages over other lures. If a fish misses it, the angler can stop the bait in place and let it rest on the water. It can be ripped in short bursts. And it can be fished at a variety of speeds.
The speed at which the Whopper Plopper is retrieved determines the speed that the tail rotates and degree of subtle or erratic action. The speed that the tail rotates also determines the frequency of the plopping noise – a slow retrieve creates a lower frequency sound, and a fast retrieve creates a higher frequency sound.
Summary
The Whopper Plopper’s distinct ability to blend visual enticement with auditory allure, creating ripples that echo across the water’s surface, serves as an invitation to both angler and fish alike. It’s a bridge between realms, connecting the angler’s skill and anticipation with the primal instincts of the aquatic predator. The journey from the initial cast to the explosive surface strike is a tale of anticipation, precision, and heart-pounding exhilaration—a dance that underscores the artistry of fishing itself.
Beyond its functional brilliance, the Whopper Plopper has become a symbol of unity within the angling community. Anglers of all backgrounds, experience levels, and fishing styles can find common ground in their shared excitement for the distinctive splash and plop that only this lure can provide.