How to Use Topwater Lures on Saltwater

Introduction

Topwater fishing is a thrilling and effective technique for targeting saltwater fish in New Zealand. It involves using lures that stay on the surface of the water, enticing fish to strike from below. The visual spectacle of a fish exploding on a topwater lure is an experience that gets the adrenaline pumping!

Why Use Topwater Lures?

Topwater lures bring an undeniable thrill to fishing, offering a unique set of advantages. The sheer excitement of witnessing a fish explode on a surface lure is unmatched. These lures excel at mimicking key forage fish like finger mullet, kahawai, and pipper, enticing predatory species to strike. Furthermore, topwater lures are particularly effective for targeting sought-after game fish such as kingfish, tuna, marlin, and giant trevally (GT).

Lure Selection

Choosing the right topwater lure is crucial for success. Here are some popular types:

Poppers

Poppers create a splash and popping sound when retrieved, attracting fish from a distance. Consider the popper's design to prevent it from bursting out of the water on the retrieve.

Stickbaits

Stickbaits are long, slender lures that mimic injured baitfish. Experiment with different sizes and actions to see what works best in your fishing area.

Matching the Hatch

Pay attention to the size and type of baitfish in the area and choose lures that match. This includes considering both size and colour.

Techniques

Casting and Retrieving 

• Target structures like reefs, headlands, buoys, and posts.
• Look for surface activity, such as splashing fish or feeding birds.
• Cast to the sides of feeding activity to avoid spooking fish.
• Employ "clock casting" to cover water effectively and locate fish.

Poppers: Vary your retrieve speed and incorporate pauses. Use sharp rod jabs to create bigger bloops.

Stickbaits: Master the "walk the dog" retrieve by varying rod sweep speed and length. Experiment with pauses and quick pops to find what triggers strikes.

Minnows: Use a straight retrieve to create a surface disturbance that attracts fish.

Casting and Jigging

While most anglers associate topwater fishing with floating lures, there's an exciting and effective technique gaining traction, particularly among shore jigging enthusiasts: using sinking lures. This approach involves casting and retrieving sinking minnows, jigging minnows, and sinking stickbaits to entice surface strikes.

• Depth Control: Unlike their floating counterparts, sinking lures allow you to precisely target fish holding at specific depths.
• Unfazed by Rough Water: Choppy conditions or strong currents won't disrupt the action of a sinking lure, keeping your presentation enticing even when the surface gets tough.
• Casting Distance: The added weight of sinking lures translates to longer casts, a significant advantage for shore-based anglers.

Trolling

• Use sinking lure staggered at different distances.
• Troll slowly (3-5 knots).
• Consider lure depth and type.

Timing and Conditions

Time of Day

Early morning and late evening are prime times for topwater fishing, especially during low light conditions.

Season

Summer is generally the best season for topwater fishing. For kingfish, the "anchovy season" (late November to May) can be particularly productive.

Anchovy like topwater lure - Little Jack Forma Stick

Water Conditions

Calm conditions or a light chop are often ideal. However, choppy water can also be productive for certain species.

Topwater Fishing Tricks and Reminders 

• Avoid injuring seabirds by casting away from feeding flocks, predator fish swims around the baitfish ball.
• Crush down hook barbs for easier release of fish.
• Move on if there's no action after several casts in one spot, run n gun style
• Don't underestimate the power of the pause in your retrieve.
• Release juvenile fish carefully.
• Practice and experiment to find what works best for you and that fishing field.

Conclusion

Topwater fishing is an exciting and effective way to catch saltwater fish in New Zealand. By choosing the right surface lure, using proper techniques, and considering the time of day and water conditions, you can increase your chances of success. Remember to be patient, persistent, and most importantly, have fun!