Well howdy there fishing friends! Nothing gets my heart pumping faster than the explosive topwater blowups that come from a big ol’ bass crushing a frog. If you’re looking to catch more bass this season using frogs, then boy do I have some tips for you. Keep reading and I’ll let you in on all my secrets for catching more bass on the frog this year.
Perfect Conditions for Frog Fishing – Muddy Water, Heavy Cover
Now I know what you’re thinking – frogs are best for clear water and open pockets right? Wrong! The perfect time to tie on a frog is when that water gets muddy and the cover gets thick. I’m talking lily pads, laydowns, grass – bass hunker down in that junk and they can’t resist an easy meal skimming the surface. That’s where your frog comes in!
When the water’s dirty, those bass rely on their lateral line to detect vibration and movement. Afrog skipping and splashing around is like a dinner bell ringing! Don’t be afraid to cast that frog right up into the nasty areas. I’ve pulled out 5 and 6 pounders right from the thickest salad you’ve ever seen. Speaking of thick cover…
Use Heavy Hooks and Line to Pull Them Out
You gotta beef up your gear when frog fishing in the nastiest cover. I use a heavy 7’2″ rod with a stiff backbone to pull those hawgs outta the junk. Your reel should be sturdy too – I recommend at least a 7.5:1 gear ratio to pick up all that slack line fast when they strike. As for line, I don’t go lighter than 50 pound braid. It’s expensive but you need the strength to haul them out of cover and it also floats the frog better. For hooks, upgrade those light wire pansy hooks that come stock to some 4/0 or 5/0 heavy hooks. You’ll thank me later when you’re hoisting a 5 pounder over a laydown!
Use Multiple Rods with Different Frog Styles
Here’s a little trick that’ll put more bass in the boat – use multiple rods with different frogs ready to go. I’ll have a rod for working open water, one for sloppy cover, and one for the thickest salad I can find. For open water, I like a hollow body frog with those fancy feather legs that kick on the retrieve. In the slop, a soft plastic frog with rubber legs does the trick. And for the heavy cover, you can’t beat one of those hardcore toad style baits with the wide gap hook.
Being able to quickly switch frog styles for the conditions means you’re always maximizing your chances for a blowup. Keep those multiple frog rods handy and make sure to experiment with colors too. Speaking of colors…
Match the Hatch with Natural Frog Colors
Color doesn’t matter as much when the water’s dirty, but in clearer conditions you better match those colors to the frogs in your lake. Find out what color frogs are hopping around shore and buy bags of plastic frogs to match. Where I fish it’s mostly green pumpkins and brown crawdads. Don’t be afraid to show them something different though if the bass aren’t looking up. I’ve had some great days throwing white or yellow when they won’t hit green. You just gotta think like a bass!
Work the Frog Slowly and Methodically
This tip probably seems obvious, but you’d be surprised how many folks don’t fish the frog right! You gotta work it slowly and methodically around cover to get the most blowups. Just make long casts and give a couple short twitches, then pause it to let the ripples spread. A lot of times they’ll crush it when it’s sitting still! Don’t recast to the same spot more than a few times – those smarter bass will get wise if you keep throwing at ’em. Take your time and be thorough, even hit those pockets that don’t look fishy.
Set the Hook Hard and Fast
Alright here’s one of the most important tips – when you get a blowup, set the hook hard and fast! You can’t just rear back like normal or you’ll rip that frog right out of their mouth. When you see that explosion, immediately lower your rod and then do a hard sweep hookset to the side. You gotta drive those new heavy hooks home! If your hookup ratio is low on blowups, a bad hookset is usually the problem.
You want solid gear for hooksets too – a stiff rod with a lot of backbone paired with 65+ pound braid is key. A braid to fluorocarbon leader helps too since fluoro won’t stretch on the hookset. I know losing blowups is heartbreaking, but practice that sideways sweep and you’ll be putting more in the boat.
Use Line Conditioner to Reduce Line Visibility
Here’s a sweet trick from the frog fishing gurus – use conditioner like Frogs Fanny or Yum Line & Lure to reduce line visibility. Slather it on your braid above the leader before hitting the water. This helps camouflage the line so those wary bass won’t get spooked. You’d be amazed how many more blowups you’ll get. Plus it helps float those big frogs!
Fish Frogs All Day, Not Just Early/Late
Conventional wisdom says throw frogs early and late when bass are active, then switch to plastic worms when the sun is high. Forget that – I’m chucking a frog from sunrise to sunset! Yes the evening bite can be great, but giant bass will still crush frogs in the middle of the day, especially in cover or clouds.
Some of my biggest bass have eaten a frog at high noon in the dog days of summer when nobody else was throwing them. Don’t limit yourself – keep a frog tied on at all times and you could get surprised.
Well there you have it – my top tips and tricks for catching more bass on hollow body frogs this season. Follow my advice and you’ll be reeling in the hawgs! What other tips do you frog fishing experts have? Share them in the comments and let’s help each other boat more bass. Get out there and go stick a slob on the frog – just don’t forget to set the hook hard when she blows up! Good luck and tight lines.
Gear Up with the Right Frog Rod, Reel & Line for Power & Accuracy
If you want to catch more bass this season, it’s time to gear up with the right frog fishing rod, reel, and line setup. Using a frog as bait is an incredibly effective technique for tempting big bass to strike from shallow, weedy waters. But you need the proper gear to accurately cast these bulky lures and then effortlessly set the hook when a bass blows up your frog.
Let’s dive into the ideal frog fishing rod, reel, and line specifications you need to maximize your hookup ratio and put more bass in the boat this season!
The Perfect Frog Rod For Accuracy & Power
When frog fishing, you need a rod that can accurately deliver these big, buoyant lures right over the thickest weed mats and structure where the big bass are lying in wait. But it also needs enough backbone and lifting power to drive the hook home on a bass that inhales your frog.
Here are the key features to look for in a dedicated frog rod:
- Length between 7-7’6″ for making long, accurate casts
- A fast or extra-fast action tip for quickly setting the hook on a strike
- Strong mid-section and lower blank for lifting power
- Line rating of 65-80 lbs for hauling bass out of heavy cover
Rods like the Googan Squad Inception or Googan Squad Trigger Stick are perfect frog rods. Their fast action tips combined with strong backbone provide the ideal blend of tip sensitity for detecting strikes and sheer hooksetting power to drive the hooks home every time.
Match It Up With A Speedy Baitcast Reel
You need a high speed baitcast reel matched up to a frog rod to quickly pick up all the slack line and hammer a hookset when Mr. Bass decides to attack your frog.
Look for these specifications in your frogging reel:
- Gear ratio of 7.1:1 or higher
- Strong, smooth drag system to turn charging bass
- Heavy duty gears and components that can stand up to pulling bass from thick cover
The Googan Squad Klutch and Googan Squad Kraken signature reels have the 7.1:1+ gear ratios needed for quick hooksets and the drag muscle to subdue big bass. Pair one up with your favorite frog rod and you’ll have a lethal frogging combo.
Strong Braid For Direct Hooksets
Frog fishing success depends on instantaneous rod hooksets the second a bass inhales your lure. You need a low-stretch braided line to transmit that hookset power directly to the frog.
For frogging, look for braid with these features:
- Line rating of 65-80 lbs test
- 4-8 strand weave for low memory and abrasion resistance
- Quality braid like Googan Squad Tatsu that won’t dig into itself on the spool
The low stretch and sensitivity of a heavy braid like Tatsu lets you detect the subtlest nibbles and hammer instant hooksets from long distance, putting more frogs in the boat.
15 Googan Baits Frog Fishing Tips You Need
Now that you’ve got the right frog fishing rod, reel, and line dialed in, let’s get into the meat – how to actually catch more bass on frogs this season!
Here are 15 killer tips for fishing the Googan Squad Eat Me, Googan Squad Mutts, and other Googan frog baits:
- Target pockets in the weeds – Look for holes and channels in the weeds where big bass sit and wait to ambush prey.
- Work the outside edges – The edges of weedlines are prime feeding zones for big bass.
- Walk it over scattered vegetation – Over more sparse, scattered weeds? Bring the frog to life by walking it steadily across scattered weed patches.
- Use braid for solid hooksets – Heavy braid is crucial for driving solid hooksets through a frog’s thick body.
- Wait for the “blow up” – Don’t set the hook on nibbles. Wait for a visual strike or line takeoff!
- Set hard! – When a bass blows up your frog, set the hook hard and high to get over those weeds.
- Keep the rod tip up – Maintain a high rod angle while fighting to keep the frog above the weeds.
- Stay patient – Some of the biggest strikes come when you pause and let the frog sit for 30+ seconds.
- Use natural colors in clear water – Try more natural green pumpkin or brown frog colors on clear lakes.
- Go bold in dirtier water – Bright frog colors like chartreuse or white stand out in stained water.
- Consider a trailer hook – Add a trailer treble hook when fishing heavy cover to increase hookups.
- Cut the legs short in dense weeds – Removing some leg strands helps reduce fouling in super weedy areas.
- Vary the retrieve speeds – Mix it up with steady walks, occasional pauses, and sporadic bursts of speed.
- Set the hook on any abnormal movement – on darts, bulges, and swirls – not just blow ups!
- Mix in other topwaters too – Buzzbaits, Whopper Ploppers, and hollow bodied frogs can all produce around weeds.
Follow these tactics and you’ll be hauling in bass after bass on weedless frog baits this season. Just remember to gear up with the right frog rod, reel, and braided line so you have the power and sensitivity to drive hooks home and put the bass in the boat!
Now get out there and walk that frog! The strikes are explosive and the big bass fishing action is waiting for you.
Pick Your Googan Baits Frog Style – Popping, Buzz, Walking, Hollow, Soft Plastic
When it comes to frog fishing for bass, Googan Baits offers an array of frog styles and models to match any situation. Their innovative designs allow you to precisely match the frog presentation to the conditions and maximize your strikes!
Here’s an overview of the different Googan frog styles and models to consider:
Popping Frogs
These frogs feature a concave mouth that makes loud “popping” sounds when twitched. The noise attracts bass from afar and triggers reaction strikes. Googan popping frog options include:
- The Googan Squad Dinger with its extra loud cupped mouth
- The Googan Squad Poppin’ Toad with spitting rear legs on each twitch
Buzz Frogs
Buzz frogs have a flat, inclined mouth that produces a loud buzzing commotion when retrieved. The distinctive sound draws savage strikes! Check out these Googan buzz frogs:
- The Googan Squad Rattlin’ Toad with internal rattle for max noise
- The Googan Squad Clackin’ Toad with clacking rear legs
Walking Frogs
These frogs are designed to gently “walk” across the surface, imitating a feeding frog. The subtle action triggers strikes while reducing hang ups. Googan walking frog choices include:
- The Googan Squad Walkin’ Toad with lively paddling legs
- The Googan Squad Scootin’ Toad with a flat bottom for easy walks
Hollow Body Frogs
Hollow frog bodies let water fill the frog on retrieves, creating a more subtle, lifelike presentation. Googan hollow body frogs:
- The Googan Squad Spittin Wa fills with water and spits it out
- The Googan Squad Croaker fills up and croaks at rests
Soft Plastic Frogs
Soft plastic frog baits offer great hookup ratios thanks to exposed hooks. Googan’s soft bait frog option:
- The Googan Squad Eat Me in sticky plastic for easy weedless rigging
Assess the conditions and choose the Googan frog that matches the mood of the fish on any given day. Now let’s get into the tips and tactics!
15 Googan Baits Frog Fishing Tips You Need
Ready to start catching more bass on Googan frogs this season? Here are 15 must-know tips to help you get more blow-ups and hookups:
- Work the thickest cover – Frogs shine around the nastiest weeds and bushes close to shore.
- Wait for weight before setting – Let the bass get a good grip before driving the hook home.
- Use heavy braid – 65lb+ braid ensures solid hooksets and pulls bass from cover.
- Pause the frog over holes – Let it sit motionless over openings in the weeds to trigger savage strikes.
- Walk quickly over grass – Speed up over scattered grass to mimic a fleeing frog.
- Pop and buzz around wood – Position the frog near wood then twitch it erratically to trigger reaction bites.
- Explore and experiment – Bass don’t always want the same thing each day. Mix it up!
- Set the hook hard! – Load up that rod and strike aggressively to drive the hook through their boney mouth.
- Keep the rod high – Maintain a high rod angle while fighting to keep the frog on top of the weeds.
- Use bright colors in dirty water – Try chartreuse, white, or orange frogs in stained water.
- Natural colors in clear water – Green pumpkin, black, brown in crystal clear water.
- Rig weedless – Texas and Carolina rigging prevents hangups in thick vegetation.
- Be prepared for blowups! – Have control of your rod and focus for explosive topwater strikes.
- Downsize for finicky fish – Try walking frogs or subtle hollow body frogs when bites are tough.
- Mix in other topwaters – Buzzbaits, Whopper Ploppers, and poppers can also produce around weeds.
There you have it – a complete guide to selecting and fishing the various Googan Baits frog styles. Follow these tips and zero in on the right frog for the conditions to catch more bass this season!
Now get out there, be patient, and get ready for some heart-stopping topwater blow ups! Good luck out there!
Focus on Targeting Shorelines, Lily Pads & Floating Debris
When frog fishing for bass, the name of the game is targeting the thickest, nastiest shoreline cover you can find. Focus on fishing frogs around shoreline vegetation, lily pads, and floating debris to trigger more savage strikes!
Here’s a closer look at why these shoreline targets should be your top priorities:
Shoreline Vegetation
The vegetation along shorelines provides the perfect ambush cover for bass. Target areas with:
- Overhanging bushes and trees
- Downed wood and logs
- Thick patches of reeds and brush
Make accurate casts along the edges and work the frog back through openings in the cover. Be ready for violent strikes!
Lily Pad Fields
Lily pads offer shade, shelter from predators, and a close food source for bass. Focus on pads:
- Near deeper drop-offs and channels
- Adjacent to emergent vegetation like reeds
- With scattered holes and openings
Accurately punch the frog into holes within the pads and be prepared for heart-stopping topwater blows ups!
Floating Debris
Collecting debris like wood, vegetation, and leaves provides concentrated cover and food sources for bass. Target:
- Floating mats of vegetation
- Logs and wood near the shoreline
- Debris caught in lily pads
Toss your frog right up against cover like floating wood and work it along the edges to draw savage strikes.
Adjacent Deep Water
Shoreline cover near deeper water gives bass close refuge after striking at prey. Look for shorelines situated near:
- Drop-offs and ledges
- Ditches and channels
- Boat docks, pilings, and boats
Focusing on shorelines near deep water increases your chances of hooking up after the strike.
15 Must-Know Frog Fishing Tips
Ready to start catching more bass on frogs around shoreline cover this season? Here are 15 tips to help you get more blowups and boat flips:
- Pick your frog style based on conditions
- Accurately cast along cover edges
- Let it sit motionless for 30+ seconds
- Set the hook at any slight movement
- Use heavy 65lb+ braided line
- Keep the rod tip up during the fight
- Go easy on the brakes when tuning your reel
- Use compact, accurate casting motions
- Downsize hook sizes for better hookups
- Keep the frog clean and debris free
- Re-tune the frog walk each day to match the mood
- Vary retrieves until you find what triggers bites
- Use natural colors in clear water
- Brighter colors for dirty water
- Have fun and expect the unexpected!
Now get out there and be ready for the bass of a lifetime on your next cast. Remember to stay focused on those high percentage shoreline targets. Good luck!
Here is a 1000+ word article on frog fishing tips using Googan baits:
Work the Frog Slowly with Twitches, Pauses & Walks
If you’re looking to catch more bass this season, one of the most exciting ways to do it is by frog fishing. And when it comes to frogs, Googan Baits makes some of the best on the market. Their Googan Squad Eat Me Frog has become a staple for many anglers targeting big bass in and around heavy cover.
Frog fishing requires a different approach than many other lure techniques. You need to work the frog slowly and methodically, giving bass plenty of opportunities to track it down and attack. Here are 15 tips to help you get more blow ups and hooksets when fishing the Googan Eat Me Frog:
Use long, twitching pauses – Let the frog sit completely still for up to 30 seconds or more in between short 1-2 foot twitches. Bass will track it down during the pauses.
Walk the frog carefully – Use short 2-3 inch “walks” of the rod tip to make the frog walk slowly and realistically across the surface. Too much movement will spook fish.
Fish around thick cover – Target matted grass, lily pads, laydowns, brush piles, docks – anything that gives bass ambush points.
Use strong braided line – 65lb braided line allows you to rip fish out of heavy cover and prevent snags and break offs.
Set the hook hard – Bass will inhale the frog, so drive the hook home with a strong sweep of the rod once you feel the bite.
Keep the frog clean – Pick off any debris so it continues tracking and sounding realistic.
Use the belly weighted model – It stands upright and creates enticing footprints in the water.
Fish it early and late – Frog fishing excels low light conditions when bass are on the prowl.
Stick with key times – Prime time is around spawn transitions in the spring and fall.
Downsize in clear water – Try a smaller profile frog for spookier clear water bass.
Vary the cadence until you get bit – Speed up or slow down your cadence until you trigger strikes.
Keep your eyes peeled – Watch for any subtle swirls, boils, or followers behind the frog.
Stay alert on the hookset – You’ll often only get one chance for a good hookup.
Use braid and a heavy rod – It allows you to horse fish out of heavy cover.
Consider a quick change frog – Having an open and weedless hook frog option helps for quicker hook sets.
The Googan Squad Eat Me Frog has incredible detailing and fish-attracting features. The body is super soft and pliable, with thin rubber legs that kick and pulsate with the slightest twitch. The double cupped mouth creates ripples and commotion, while the belly weight makes it sit upright and leave realistic footprints.
This highly dynamic frog excels at enticing big bass blowups. Just remember to take your time, be methodical, and use those long pauses. The strikes will come! When a bass inhales this frog, make sure to drive the hook home with authority. And always fish heavy braid for pulling hogs out of the nastiest cover.
Follow these tips and fish the techniques smartly, and the Eat Me Frog will produce some heart-stopping topwater strikes. Now get out there and walk that frog slowly for some explosive strike action!
Set the Hook Hard on Any Subtle Weight Changes
If you want to put more bass in the boat this season, frog fishing with the Googan Squad Eat Me Frog should be in your arsenal. The explosions strikes you get when bass attack these frogs are incredible, but you need to be ready to set the hook at the slightest weight change.
These awesome frog baits from Googan Baits offer an irresistible meal for big bass lurking in the thick stuff. Here are 15 tips to help you get more blowups and hooked fish when fishing the Eat Me Frog:
Fish around thick cover – Target matted grass, lily pads, laydowns, docks – bass hide in ambush points.
Twitch and pause – Let the frog sit completely still, then give short 1-2 foot twitches to attract strikes.
Slowly walk the frog – Use short 2-3 inch “walks” to mimic frogs moving across the surface.
Watch for followers – Keep an eye out for swirls or bass following behind.
Set the hook immediately – Any change in weight means a bass has it. Sweep back hard.
Use 65lb braided line – It allows you to horse fish out of heavy cover and prevents break offs.
Fish early and late – Prime time for topwater is low light during spawn transitions.
Keep it clean – Pick off any debris so the frog continues looking realistic.
Belly weighted stands up – It creates enticing footprints and kick on the surface.
Vary retrieve until you get bit – Speed up or pause until you trigger strikes.
Downsize in clear water – Try a smaller profile frog for spooky clear water bass.
Heavy rod for hooksets – A stiff rod allows you to rip fish from heavy cover.
Consider a quick change frog – Open hooks allow faster and better hookset.
Use braid for hook power – Braid won’t stretch and allows solid hooksets.
Stay alert! – Strikes happen fast, so be ready with the hookset.
The Googan Squad Eat Me Frog is an awesomely designed bait for big bass. It’s super soft and pliable, with thin fluttering rubber legs. The double cupped mouth kicks up bubbles, gurgles, and ripples to mimic a struggling frog.
When that weight changes slightly because a bass has inhaled it, you need to snap into action. Drive that hook home with authority! Having your rod tip down and reeling down with 65lb braid allows you to really drive those hooks home for a solid hookup.
Topwater frog fishing requires focus, patience, and timing. But it produces some of the most exciting strikes and bass catches you’ll experience. So slow down, be methodical, and get ready to set hard when you notice any weight change.
Follow these tips and use the right gear, and the Eat Me Frog will produce some amazing blowups! Now get out there, work it slowly, and be ready to hammer down when the bass crush this awesome frog bait!
Keep the Frog High in Heavy Cover to Avoid Hang-Ups
Looking to Catch More Bass This Season? Here are 15 Googan Baits Frog Fishing Tips You Need
1. Fish Frogs Over Heavy Cover
2. Use Braided Line for Penetration
3. Keep Your Rod Tip High During the Retrieve
4. Vary the Retrieves
5. Use Colors that Match the Conditions
6. Focus on the Prime Frogging Hours
7. Rig Weedless with Wide Gap Hooks
8. Set the Hook Quickly and Firmly
9. Stay in Contact on the Hookset
10. Use Heavy Tackle
11. Target Shady, Quiet Areas
12. Hop Frogs Over Grass
13. Watch Your Line on the Retrieve
14. Downsize in Clear Water
15. Stay Patient
Use Strong Hooksets to Drive Through Tough Frog Mouths
As another bass fishing season ramps up, many anglers have frog baits on their mind. Topwater frog fishing is an extremely exciting technique that can yield some massive strikes. When a bruiser bass explodes on your frog, it’s one of the most adrenaline-pumping experiences an angler can have!
However, those massive strikes can also lead to heartbreaking results if you don’t drive the hook home. The tough, bony mouth structure of bass can deflect hooks and cause missed fish. When a 4+ pound largemouth inhales your frog, you need rock solid equipment and flawless technique to convert the eat into a landing.
That’s why I put together this list of 15 tips to help you stick more frogs this season. Applying these techniques has helped me boat many more bass on hollow bodied frogs over the years. I utilize a lot of Googan Baits frogs in my fishing, as they are easy to walk, extremely durable, and just flat out catch fish. By implementing these 15 tips on your next frog fishing outing, you’ll be well on your way to more boated bass and less heartache.
1. Use a Heavy Duty Frog Rod
The foundation of solid hooksets starts with having the right frog rod. You need a heavy power, fast action rod in the 7’ to 7’6” range. The stout rod acts as a shock absorber, allowing you to really lean into your hookset without fear of breaking the line. Longer rods also give you better sweeping hook setting capabilities to drive the point through a bass’s bony mouth.
Some of my favorite frog rods are the 7’3” Heavy Googan Squad Inferno and the 7’5” Heavy Dobyn’s Fury. Either of those rods give me the back bone I need to pop free those frog baits from the maw of lunker bass.
2. Use 65 lb Braid
In addition to a heavy rod, you need strong, abrasion resistant line. I exclusively use 65 lb braided line for all of my frogging setups. Brands like Sufix 832 and Toro Tamer are excellent options that are super smooth yet extremely tough.
The zero stretch of braid ensures your hooksets are instantaneous and efficient. The heavy diameter of 65 lb test also gives you a better sweeping hookset to really drive the point home. Additionally, the abrasion resistance prevents line failure when fishing around vegetation and structure.
3. Perfect Your Hookset
When that bass gulps down your frog, everything happens quickly. You need to master the timing and technique of your hookset to be successful. As soon as you feel the weight of the fish or see a boil, you need to immediately sweep your rod tip down and to the side.
This sideways sweeping motion utilizes the length and backbone of your frog rod to achieve maximum force. If you just rip straight up, you can easily rip the frog free from the fish’s mouth. That violent sideways sweep engages more of the rod blank to drive the point through the frog and into the bass’s jaws.
4. Wait Longer Than You Think
A common mistake anglers make is setting the hook too quickly when frog fishing. When a bass inhales a frog, it first has to close its mouth. If you try and set the hook while the mouth is still open, you’ll pull the bait free.
Force yourself to wait an extra second or two after you see or feel the initial strike. That gives the bass time to get a solid grasp on the frog before you drive the hooks home. Be patient and your hook up ratio will skyrocket.
5. Develop a Solid Hookset Foundation
Having a balanced and athletic bass fishing stance is key for effective hooksets. When fishing a frog, you always want to have a slight bend in your knees and keep your feet about shoulder width apart. This athletic position allows for better balance and generates more power from your lower body.
You don’t want to be reaching and off balance when you have to unleash your hookset. By keeping your knees bent and centered, you’ll be in prime position to put the hammer down.
6. Follow Through Completely
After you initiate that sweeping hookset, it’s essential that you continue the motion all the way through. Keep that rod tip low and continue ripping to the side in one long, smooth motion. Fully committing to the follow through allows the hook to deeply penetrate and catch hold.
Many times anglers will only set half way and won’t complete the hookset. Make sure you rip all the way through the entire sweeping motion of your hookset to maximize effectiveness.
7. Consider Setting With Two Hands
Due to the violent nature of frog hooksets, it’s often advantageous to set the hook with your opposite hand. Gripping the rod with two hands allows you to generate more power and control.
To perform a two handed hook set, simply reach your opposite hand up and grab the rod just above the reel as you’re setting. This helps balance the rod and provides added force to drive the hook home. It does take a bit of practice to get the technique down, but it can result in a much more solid hookup.
8. Remove Any Slack
In order for your hookset to be effective, you need to eliminate any slack in your line. When a bass inhales your frog, you often have some excess line that needs to be reeled in before the hookset. If you don’t take up the slack, your hookset will be delayed and ineffective.
When you see that frog get eaten, immediately engage the reel handle and start taking up line before initiating your hookset. This draws the frog tight to the fish and gets the line firm. Pro anglers have this technique down to just one or two short cranks before unleashing a vicious hookset.
9. Consider Braided Line for Flipping Setups Too
Using braided line on frogs not only aids in hooksets, but also allows you to effectively flip heavy cover for bass. Frogs really shine when punched into the nastiest spots you can find.
The zero stretch and sensitivity of braided line allows you to feel bites and properly set the hook, even around thick vegetation. I’ll throw a 1/2 or 3/4oz tungsten weight ahead of my frog so I can flip and punch deep into slop and mats.
You can also Texas rig your hollow frog, add a weight, and flip away! Braid is a requirement to fish frogs in heavy, flipped presentations in my opinion.
10. Tune Your Gear Properly
Making sure all your gear is tuned up and smooth is an often overlooked key to more solid hooksets. Make sure your reel is freshly lubricated and functioning properly. Check your line for any abraded spots and re-tie regularly.
It’s also wise to change out hooks occasionally to ensure they are still razor sharp. Take the time to properly tune and maintain your equipment for maximum effectiveness.
11. Vary Your Cadence
Changing up the speed at which you walk your frog can entice more bass to strike. A steady, slower walk will mimic an easy meal for the fish. Burning the frog quickly can fire them up to attack.
Experiment with different cadences until you dial in what speed triggers the most viscous blows. Varying your retrieve is a great way to trigger reaction strikes from otherwise uninterested bass.
12. Fish Frogs All Day
While many associate frogs with early morning topwater action, they can produce all day long. Don’t limit your frog fishing to just the first few hours of the day.
As other anglers switch to bottom bouncing rigs when the sun gets high, breaking out a frog can deliver results others aren’t getting. The shade and blue bird skies of mid-day make that frog stand out. Keep it tied on and fish frogs from dawn to dusk.
13. Wind Is Your Friend
Though some anglers stow their frogs when the wind picks up, embrace the gusts! Wind serves to conceal your presence by breaking up and masking noise from your casts and moving frog.
Choppy water also makes it harder for bass to get a good look at your offering in waves and ripples. Don’t be afraid to keep fishing a frog in windy conditions.
14. Set the Hook on Anything
Don’t assume every bump or boil is a bass – set the hook regardless! Bluegills, perch, and other species are known to nip at frogs.
Anytime your frog acts unnatural or you see any kind of disturbance, throw the hammer down. You may be surprised at some of the unexpected species you hook into by being over aggressive in your hook setting.
15. Stick With It
Some days the bass just won’t commit to a frog, no matter what you do. When this happens, don’t give up! More often than not, stubborn fish will start blowing up later in the day as conditions change.
Cycle through colors and slightly alter your presentation, but keep giving those finicky bass opportunities to strike. Staying persistent and focused with your frog can lead to a blistering bite when you crack the code.
As you can see, there are many nuanced facets to achieving solid hookups when frog fishing for bass. Adjusting your techniques and equipment to be more in tune with the violent nature of topwater strikes will definitely help increase hookup ratios.
Utilize these 15 tips during your upcoming frogging outings and you’ll be boating many more frog-slurping lunkers. The heart pounding action of a bass crushing your frog is hard to beat. With the right approach, you’ll be experiencing that adrenaline rush much more consistently.
Now get out there and mix it up with your favorite hollow body frog. Sharpen those hooks and be ready to unleash your inner “Googan” on the bass this season. Remember patience, timing and form are crucial. Commit these tips to memory and hold on tight, because huge strikes are coming your way!
Vary retrieves – Fast, Slow, Jerky, Twitchy, Stop & Go
If you’re looking to put some big bass in the boat this season, frog fishing should be at the top of your list. Frogs are often overlooked as bass baits, but they can produce explosive strikes and action when conditions are right. The key is having the right gear, understanding frog behavior, and perfecting your retrieving technique. Here are 15 tips to help take your Googan Baits frog fishing to the next level:
1. Use the right rod
Having the correct rod is critical for frog fishing success. You’ll want a heavy power, fast action rod between 7-7’6″ in length. The stiff backbone will help drive hooks home on those long casts, while the fast tip will ensure solid hooksets on blow-ups. Pair it with 65-80 lb braid for ultimate casting distance and sensitivity.
2. Pick your frog style
Googan Baits offers a wide selection of frog styles to match conditions. The RCT – Ready to Crush Toad has a subtle entry and lifelike profile for finicky fish. The Kowboy Toad delivers walk-the-dog action using two independent legs. And the Meat Head generates big commotion with its swinging legs and bobbing head. Have a couple styles ready to switch things up.
3. Focus on the thickest cover
Frogs truly shine when fished over the nastiest, most impenetrable cover. Pitch them tight against vegetation edges, mats, brush, trees, and docks. Anywhere bass can ambush prey. Just be prepared to lose a few frogs in the mix. It’s part of the game.
4. Cast past targets
Unlike other topwaters, accurate casting isn’t critical with frogs. Focus on making long casts well past the intended target. This allows the frog to land quietly before you start working it over the strike zone. The sloppier the entry, the better.
5. Vary retrieves
Bass like diversity in their meals. Mix up frog retrieves to imitate different types of real frog behavior. Try fast hops and short twitches to mimic a frog fleeing from danger. Long, jerky Retrieves resemble a frog swimming across open pockets. Slow, methodical cranking mimics casual feeding. Keep bass guessing.
6. Let the frog sit
Don’t be afraid to pause and let the frog sit motionless after big twitches or over pockets in the vegetation. Bass will track and follow frogs for long periods before striking. Allow them time to track it down and get in position for the kill.
7. Watch the line on explosions
Frog strikes are aggressive and visual. But you can’t always see the initial take. Watch the line for any ticks as an indicator. A bass will often suck the frog in and hesitate momentarily before the hookset. Be ready to lower the rod tip then sweep hard.
8. Use braided line
Braided line is a must for punching hooks on longer frog casts. Its zero stretch allows solid hook penetration through heavier cover. Go with at least 65 lb braid when frogging. Some anglers bump up to 80 lb for added abrasion resistance around thick mats.
9. Sharpen those hooks
The super sharp 5/0 hooks from Googan Baits are designed specifically for their frog lineup. But over time hooks dull. Inspect frequently and use a hook file or sandpaper to freshen the points. Maximizing penetration is key.
10. Try different colors
Having an assortment of frog colors is wise to better mimic prey. Googan’s Realistic Crawfish, Mossy Oak Bottomland, Black Shadow, Hardy Perch, and other options all have their place. Let conditions dictate your choice.
11. Fish open pockets
Targets within heavy cover include open patches and pockets where bass station to ambush. Make long casts into the holes and work the frog back methodically. Move slowly and pause frequently, even stopping it in the middle of pockets.
12. Follow up on misses
Short strikes and blow-ups can be common with frogs. If a bass misses or drops the frog after the strike, make an immediate follow-up cast. Many times they will crush it out of frustration the second go round.
13. Downsize in clearer water
When fishing clearer water or pressured fish, scale back your frog size. The 3 inch RCT packs plenty of punch in natural colors for finicky biters. Just adjust hook and gear accordingly.
14. Work quickly
Cover water and make efficient casts when frog fishing. Keep retrieves varied but steady as you methodically work down a shoreline, around cover spots, or across pockets. Don’t overwork individual pieces of cover.
15. Stay alert on strikes
Frog explosions can be shocking and amazing to watch. But don’t get so caught up in admiring the blow-up that you forget to sweep and set the hook. Stay focused and be ready to quickly lower the rod and drive that frog home.
With these tips and some practice, you’ll gain confidence and consistency in your Googan frog game. No bass bait produces the same ferociousness and excitement as an attacking frog. Tie one on and get ready for some epic topwater blow ups!
Fish Frogs as Search Baits to Locate Active Bass
Let’s be real, amigos. We’ve all been there – pulling up to the lake at dawn, rods rigged and tackle boxes packed to the brim with every lure imaginable. Yet despite our best efforts, the bass just don’t seem interested in playing along. It’s times like these when busting out a frog can totally save the day.
Here’s the deal. Frogs aren’t your typical cast-and-retrieve bass bait. They excel at something else entirely – locating active fish. Their high visibility and enticing action lets you thoroughly work an area to pinpoint where the hot spots and hungry lunkers are hiding out.
So if the bass fishing bite is tough and you’re struggling to generate interest, don’t be afraid to tie on a frog and use it to search out the sweet spots. Here are 15 tips to help you become a frog fishing pro at unlocking the motherlode:
1. Gear Up for the Battle
Frogs require specialized gear to handle their size, weight, and weedless hook setup. A heavy 7-7’6” rod with an extra fast tip will provide backlash-free casting and solid hooksets. Pair it with 65-80 lb braid for no stretch and abrasion resistance in heavy cover.
2. Think All-Terrain Versatility
The right frog can traverse any type of structure and habitat to find where bass are at. Models like the Googan Squad Toad Runner handle open water, scattered grass, pad fields, timber, and beyond. Have a couple sizes handy to adapt.
3. Target the Prime Ambush Zones
Focus casts on spots that provide cover and make logical ambush points: weed edges, overhanging trees, dock posts, laydowns, holes in lily pads, etc. Pay extra attention if baitfish are visible nearby.
4. Bomb Long, Quiet Casts
Get up close and personal with the cover by landing the frog well past targets. Sloppy, undetectable entries get more strikes than accurate casts. Just be ready for the explosive reaction!
5. Watch That Line Like a Hawk
Keep a super close eye on the line after every cast and on retrieves. Bass will slurp frogs under without much commotion. Any little tick or pause is reason to set the hook immediately.
6. Mix Up the Action
Vary retrieves until you dial in what triggers vicious attacks. Mix twitching hops with steady cadence cranking. Choppy retrieves signal distress, smooth action resembles natural swimming.
7. Use Frogs to Dissect Cover
Meticulously work a frog around and over fishy looking cover to pick apart every inch. Pay close attention to any strikes or followers to pinpoint high percentage zones.
8. Follow Hook Ups with Repeated Casts
When you locate active fish willing to crush a frog, keep putting casts in that vicinity to keep the momentum going. Where there’s one hit, there’s often more lurking nearby.
9. Downsize Offerings in Open Water
For searching open water, try running smaller frogs like the 3.5” Toad Runner Micro. They attract bass while still allowing long casts to thoroughly cover water.
10. Change Colors Until You Get Bit
Experiment with an assortment of natural frog colors until the bass tell you their preference for the day. Tweaking this variable can make a big difference.
11. Use Frogs at Dawn and Dusk
When chasing schooling fish, focus on low light periods when bass are most active. The frog’s surface commotion will draw them in even in dingy conditions.
12. Follow the Bait
Pay attention to any signs of baitfish activity on the surface. Where you find the bait, hungry bass won’t be far away. Frogs imitate vulnerable separated bait.
13. Fish Frogs Over Grass First
When faced with mixed cover, concentrate initial casts over grassy areas. Bass gravitate toward grass before thicker cover. Then move on to pads and wood.
14. Cover Water Quickly
Move along steadily when searching, making frequent long casts. Don’t waste time overpicking individual pieces of cover. Let the frog do the work for you.
15. Stay Ready and Respond Fast
Strikes can be explosive but also extremely subtle. Keep your thumb poised on the reel and be prepared to hammer down immediately at the slightest bump or odd behavior.
So next time the bite seems tough, break out a frog and go into search and destroy mode, amigos. You’ll be zoned in on bass central in no time! Just remember – stealthy entry, varied retrieve, watch the line, and set that hook hard. You got this!
Cover Water Aggressively to Find Fish Willing to Strike
Fellow fishing fanatics, we need to have a little heart-to-heart about frog fishing. When the bite is tough and bass aren’t cooperating, it’s so easy to get locked into working one little area. But here’s the deal – that approach just ain’t cutting it. If you want to put fish in the boat, you gotta cover some serious water with that frog!
See, a frog isn’t meant for precise casts to specific targets. Its magic lies in its ability to draw vicious strikes from bass hiding in the nastiest cover. But you’ll only unlock that magic if you force it in front of as many fish as possible. So don’t be shy – get moving and start covering water aggressively!
Ready to put your Googan frog to work exploring new territory? Here are 15 tips to take your search game into overdrive:
1. Spool Up with Strong Line
Dragging big frogs through thick vegetation demands tough line – go with 65-80 lb braid. The zero stretch gives solid hooksets on longer casts, while the abrasion resistance keeps you moving.
2. Pick Frog Styles that Cover Water
Opt for frogs like the Walking Toad with long-casting profiles and stimulating surface action. The more water you can cover, the better your odds of connecting.
3. Move Quickly Downshore
Don’t waste time over dissecting small areas. Keep working your way down the bank, parallel to the shore, focusing on covering as much water as possible.
4. Step Up Your Rod
A longer, more powerful frog rod in the 7’6″-8′ range enhances casting distance and provides the backbone to rip fish from cover. But don’t sacrifice tip speed.
5. Follow a Grid Pattern
Systematically scan an area by working the frog in a grid-like pattern. Meticulously cover all the prime targets and strike zones.
6. Alternatively Fan Cast
If no particular pattern emerges, use an open fan cast approach. Skip casts left, right, short, and long to thoroughly work every inch.
7. Bump and Run
After getting bit in an area, do repeated bump and run casts to pick apart the zone. Fire back to the sweet spot from different angles to entice repeats.
8. Charge Through Cover
Plow that frog right through thick mats, vegetation, wood, or whatever the bass are hiding in. Force them to strike out of reflex and irritation.
9. Mix Steady Retrieves with Pauses
Use occasional pauses in the open pockets within cover to let the frog sit. Draw curious bass in for a look before twitching life back into it.
10. Follow Shorelines and Contours
Target fish highways by working frogs along shorelines, ditches, ledges, creek channels, and other structural transitions that bass patrol.
11. Burn it Over Grass
Grass provides great ambush cover but allows faster retrieves to quickly canvas the area before moving deeper.
12. Slow Down Around Wood
Take time to methodically dissect wood cover like stumps, branches, and laydowns with precision casts and twitches.
13. Mix Up Retrieves
Vary retrieves from steady cranking, to ripping pops, subtle twitches, and dropping it in holes. Different styles trigger different reflex strikes.
14. Follow Follows
When fish follow but don’t commit, make repeated casts to those fish to trigger their predatory instincts to kick in.
15. Hit the Jackpot Spots
As you cover water, continuously note places that produce to return and thoroughly work them over again later.
So get moving and do some froggy exploring, gang! The more aggressively you can cover shorelines, contours, and sweet spots, the better your chances you’ll cross paths with bass ready to crush. It’s all about getting your lure in front of opportunistic fish, so don’t be afraid to burn some frog boots on the water!
Fish Around Docks, Boat Ramps & Submerged Wood
If you’re looking to up your bass catching game this season, frog fishing with Googan Baits can help you achieve your goal. As an avid angler myself, I’ve spent countless hours refining my frog fishing techniques over the years. And let me tell you, when conditions are right, there’s no better topwater bait for catching those lunker largemouth and mean old bucketmouths. In this article, I’ll share 15 of my best tips for catching more bass using Googan Baits frogs.
1. Target Shady, Vegetated Areas
Bass love to ambush their prey from the cover of shady, vegetated spots like lily pads, grasses, bushes, overhanging trees, docks, and boat ramps. Focus on fishing the edges and openings in these areas, as that’s where bass will be waiting to strike. The Eat Me frog excels at skipping and popping through tight spots and matted vegetation.
2. Work Topwater Early and Late
The prime times to break out the frog are early morning, late evening, and nighttime when bass are actively feeding. Calm, low light conditions also reduce their wariness. I’ve had some of my best topwater blowups right at dusk and into the first couple hours of darkness.
3. Use Braided Line for Added Strength
Braided line gives you the strength you need to rip bass from heavy cover. I prefer 50-65lb braid with a 5-6 foot fluorocarbon leader. The lack of stretch improves hooksets and sensitivity. Just be sure to set your drag right to avoid breakoffs.
4. Vary Retrieval Speed and Cadence
Don’t fall into the trap of repetitive retrieves. Mix it up with fast pops and short pauses, steady medium rolls, and slow subtle twitches. Cadence and speed changes trigger reaction strikes. Sometimes simply letting the frog sit motionless for 30+ seconds elicits vicious attacks.
5. Make Long, Accurate Casts
Getting your frog bait away from the boat and structure is key to more blowups. Those long, accurate casts allow you to pick apart promising spots thoroughly. Focus on perfecting your casting mechanics to improve distance and precision.
6. Set the Hook HARD on Any Disturbance
Due to their soft bodied design, frog baits require an extra firm hook set. If you see, hear, or feel anything suspicious, lean back and set the hook as hard as you can. You can’t be too aggressive here, so don’t be shy!
7. Keep the Rod Tip Low After Setting
To maximize hookup ratios, keep your rod tip down near or even below the waterline after setting the hook. This lets the bass turn down and load up the rod, driving the hook home. If you reel down from a high rod position, you risk pulling the bait away and losing them.
8. Use Heavy Rods to Horse Them In
Frog fishing requires beefy gear to haul big bass from thick stuff. A heavy power fast action rod between 7-7’6″ paired with a high speed reel works best. I use 65-80lb braid and a rod like the Googan Squad Inception.
9. Pay Close Attention to Your Line
Watch your line on every cast, as bass will often swipe and miss the frog. Detecting those subtle ticks or jumps in your line means detecting more strikes. You can then follow up right away with another cast.
10. Follow Missed Strikes Immediately
When a bass boils on your frog but misses, don’t keep retrieving. Instead immediately cast back to the same spot. That fish is still there and angry! Your odds of triggering an instant blowup are extremely high.
11. Work All Pockets and Edges Thoroughly
Pick apart every inch of promising structure. I like to make parallel casts to cover all angles. If possible, position yourself to cast with and against any current edges. Be methodical and cover water thoroughly.
12. Watch for Weather Changes
As fronts and storms approach, frog fishing gets red hot. Low pressure activates feeding activity, so I hit the water right before cold fronts and rain. Overcast skies and rising water levels also improve the bite.
13. Cover Water Quickly to Find Active Fish
Don’t waste time dead sticking one area for long. Fan cast and quickly probe the promising mid-range targets. When you get a blowup or catch a fish, then slow down and work the area thoroughly before advancing.
14. Use Colors that Show Up in Muddy Water
After big rains muddy up the water, switch to louder colored frogs with some chartreuse in them like Googan Baits Toad Runner. Darker colors get lost, while the bright yellows and greens get attention.
15. Downsize Weight and Hooks in Clear Water
When fishing ultra clear, low wind days over deeper water, try lighter weight frogs with smaller hooks like the Tiny Toad. Finesse tactics will draw out wary fish in transparent conditions.
As you can see, there are many nuances and techniques involved in catching bass on frog baits. But that’s what makes it so fun and challenging! Follow these tips and you’ll be hooking into toads in no time. And be sure to experiment with Googan Squad frogs like the Mondo, Bandito Bug, and Toad Runner to match conditions and bass appetites. Now get out there and go stick a slob on the frog!
Try Topwater Frogs at Dawn, Dusk & Night for Big Bites
If you want to start boating more brute bass this season, it’s time to get serious about frog fishing. As someone who’s landed hundreds of chunky largemouth on topwater frogs, let me tell you – when conditions are prime, there’s no better bait for catching trophies. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll be spilling the beans on my top 15 tips for frogging success using Googan Baits. Read on to become a master angler of matted grass and tangled shorelines!
1. Target Vegetation, Docks, Wood – The Thicker, The Better
To find the real lunkers, you’ve gotta fish where they live – the nastiest, thickest, gnarliest cover you can find. I’m talking sloppy matted grass, miles of lily pads, flooded timber, tangled shorelines, boat docks, any cover that’s hard to penetrate. The Eat Me was designed to traverse this stuff.
2. Early Morning, Late Evening, Night – Prime Topwater Times
First light and the last light of day are absolute dynamite times to break out the frog. Bass metabolism is peaked as they actively hunt. Low light makes them less wary. I’ve landed some true giants at night on the frog too – it’s a blast!
3. Strong Braid is a Must for Ripping Them Out
Due to all the wood and junk you’ll be fishing, braided line is a requirement. It simply has the brute strength needed for yanking hawgs from the nastiest cover. I run 50-65lb braid with a 5-6 foot fluoro leader.
4. Vary retrieves – Pop & Stop, Steady Roll, Subtle Twitch
Don’t get repetitive with your retrieves or bass will get wise. Mix it up with fast hard pops followed by pauses, steady medium rolls, super slow subtle twitches barely rippling the surface. Changing it up triggers reaction strikes.
5. Make Long, Precise Casts to Pick Apart Cover
To properly work promising frog water, you need to pick it apart from a distance. Long accurate casts allow you to thoroughly dissect the juice. Dial in your casting game to improve distance and precision.
6. Any Indication – Set the Hook Instantly and Firmly
Due to their soft bodied design, frog baits demand an ultra fast and hard hook set. At the slightest bump, boil, or odd movement – lean back and hammer down on them. You can’t possibly set too hard.
7. Keep the Rod Tip Down After the Hookset
Once you hammer down on that hook, keep the rod tip down near or even below the water. Let the bass turn and surge deep, loading the rod for maximum hook penetration. Reeling down from high kills hooksets.
8. Heavy, Beefy Gear – No Finesse Here!
Throwing big frogs and huge bass around heavy cover demands serious gear. A heavy power fast action rod between 7-7’6″ paired with a high speed low profile baitcaster does the trick. I use 65-80lb braid.
9. Watch Your Line – Detect the Subtle Strikes
Often times bass just swipe at the frog and miss. So I carefully watch my line on every single cast. Seeing those subtle ticks or jumps means detecting more strikes to follow up on.
10. Follow Missed Strikes Immediately
When a boil or swipe occurs with no hookup, don’t keep reeling. Immediately cast right back to the same spot – that fish is still there and mad! Odds are extremely high he’ll crush it on the second go around.
11. Meticulously Work Every Square Inch of Cover
Pick apart vegetation and wood thoroughly from different angles. I like to make parallel casts to hit the edges. Take your time and be super precise – no sloppy casting here.
12. Watch for Low Pressure, Storms, and Surface Activity
As fronts move in, the impending low pressure jump starts the feeding. Rain and overcast skies also flip the switch. Any surface activity like baitfish or bugs is a sign to try the frog.
13. Cover Water Quickly to Find Active Bass
Don’t waste time dead sticking one spot for long. Make several fan casts then quickly move on, probing all the best looking mid range targets. Slow down once you get bit to work the area fully.
14. Bright Colors in Murky Water, Subtle Shades When Clear
Muddy water calls for louder more visible colors like chartreuse and white frogs. Clear water with finicky fish requires natural, translucentLooking tones. Always factor water clarity into color choice.
15. Downsize Weight & Hooks in Ultra Clear Shallow Water
On tough clear days in shallow water, mini frogs get the job done. The Tiny Toad has smaller hooks and less paddling action to entice super wary fish. Remember, clear + pressured = finesse.
As you can see, frog fishing takes dedication, local knowledge, and nuanced techniques. But that’s what makes it so dang rewarding! Follow these tips and you’ll be reeling in trophy bucketmouths in no time. Now get out on the water and go stick a giant! What are you waiting for?
If you’re looking to catch more bass this season, using frog baits can be an extremely effective technique. Googan Baits makes some of the most popular and productive frog lures on the market, like the Eat Me Frog. While frog fishing takes some practice, it can produce some huge blowups and exciting topwater strikes. Follow these 15 Googan frog fishing tips and you’ll be hooking bass on frogs in no time.
Use the Right Gear
Having the proper rod and reel setup is key for frog fishing success. You need a heavy-powered fast action rod, usually a 7’3″ to 7’6″ heavy or extra heavy rod. This helps drive the hooks through the frog and into the bass’s mouth on the hookset. For your reel, opt for a high speed 6.3:1 to 7.1:1 gear ratio baitcaster reel spooled with 50-65 lb braided line. The heavy braid helps rip frogs free from vegetation.
Pick Your Frog Style
Googan Baits offers frog lures in a few different styles, so pick the one that matches your local conditions. The Eat Me Frog has a slender profile that easily walks over grass and lily pads. The standard Booyah Pad Crasher is better for punching through thick mats. The Bazooka Frog has paddle feet to churn water and make commotion over open water.
Use Bright Colors in Stained Water
When fishing muddy or stained water, opt for frogs in brighter colors like white, chartreuse, orange and yellow. Bass can see these hues even in dingy water. When fishing clearer lakes, more natural shades of black, green and brown work well. Always consider water clarity when choosing lure color.
Work the Edges of Cover
Don’t always plop your frog directly into the thickest slop. Bass will stage along the edges of weedlines, grass, lily pads and other cover. Work your frog along the edges, pausing it over any openings in the vegetation or pockets of open water. Be thorough and methodical around cover edges.
Use Long, Patient Retrieves
Be patient with your frog retrieves. Use a long, steady retrieve punctuated by occasional twitches and pauses. Unlike traditional topwaters, you want to keep retrieves slow and smooth most of the time. Rapid retrieves or aggressive rod twitching tends to submerge the frog, reducing strikes.
Give Bass Time to Eat It
When you get a blowup on your frog, resist the urge to set the hook immediately. Bass need time to fully inhale the frog, and a quick hookset can rip the lure free. Allow 1-2 seconds after the strike before sweeping the rod back to drive the hook home. Proper hooksets are the key to good hookup ratios.
Set the Hook Twice
Often one hookset isn’t enough with frogs. After your initial hookset, drop the rod tip down towards the water, then give another strong sweep with the rod on the hookset. This “double up” technique results in better hookups than a single hook sweep.
Use Heavy Tackle
Don’t skimp on tackle with frog fishing. Heavy rods and line are essential for hooking and landing bass in heavy cover. You need power to rip bass from vegetation before they wrap you up in plants and snag off. Heavier 16-25 lb fluorocarbon leaders help turn fish before they dive into cover too.
Fish Frogs in the Right Conditions
While frogs can catch fish at any time, they really shine in certain conditions. Fish frogs in lowlight at dawn, dusk and nighttime. Overcast days are ideal frog fishing weather. And target shorelines shaded from sun by trees or clouds. Shady areas hold more active bass when frog fishing.
Mix Up Your Retrieves
Alter your retrieves until you find what bass want. Long, slow pops with pauses is often best. But also try faster constant reeling, jerky twitching retrieves, and walking-the-dog side to side actions. Vary retrieves and cadences until you trigger strikes.
Fish Around Cover and Structure
Target likely ambush spots like wood cover, docks, laydowns, stumps, rock piles, points, and weed edges. Get in tight to cover and bump the frog around structure to draw explosive reactions from bass. Any type of cover near deeper water is prime frog water.
Use Gear to Manage Vegetation
Specialized gear helps manage vegetation and line drag when frog fishing. A braided line cutter placed on the rod above the reel keeps throwing free of grass. Line conditioner applied to braid reduces friction and lets you rip frogs from slop. Heavy rods/line allow powering through vegetation.
Follow Up Missed Strikes
It happens to everyone – you get an epic blowup on your frog but come tight and feel nothing. When you miss a frog strike, cast back immediately with a soft plastic creature bait or jig. Follow up missed strikes around cover – you’ll often get bit by the same bass.
Fish Frogs as a Search Bait
Frogs excel at covering water to find actively feeding bass. Use them to methodically “search” for fish on shorelines, flats, and anywhere with cover/structure. Their loud popping commotion grabs attention. Frog fishing allows searching areas thoroughly.
Stay Calm on Blowups
It’s exciting when a 5 lb bass crushes your frog topwater! But you must stay calm and resist setting the hook too quickly. Wait for the bass to have the frog in its mouth before sweeping the rod. Stay cool on blowups and your hookup ratio will dramatically improve.
Follow these Googan frog fishing tips and you’ll put more bass in the boat when using frog baits like the Booyah Pad Crasher and Googan Eat Me Frog. Frogs require adjusting your technique but can be amazing producers when conditions are right. Keep honing your skills and frog fishing will quickly become one of your go-to bass catching methods!
As a bass angler, one of the most exciting ways to catch big bass is by frog fishing. When that bass explodes out of the water and slams your frog bait, it’s exhilarating! However, frog fishing can also be frustrating at times when the bass don’t seem interested in your frog. Having the right tips and techniques for frog fishing can make all the difference in your success rate.
Stay Patient & Persistent – The Big Ones are Worth the Wait
One of the keys to successful frog fishing is having patience and persistence. Unlike other bass lures that you constantly reel and pop, with frog baits you often have to wait for the bass to strike. This means casting your frog over and over to the same area until you get that hit. It can try your patience, but stay persistent because the big bass are worth the wait. When a 4 or 5 pound largemouth inhales your frog, that adrenaline rush makes it all worthwhile.
Focus on casting frog baits around thick mats of vegetation, overhanging trees, docks, and other prime frog habitats. Bass will lie in wait in these places looking for an easy meal, so keep placing your frog right in their face. Even if you’ve thoroughly worked over an area, try it again later. Those big boys don’t always respond on the first few casts, but will eventually attack it if you stay persistent.
1. Use a Robust Frog Bait
Your frog bait takes a beating when a big bass strikes, so having a durable frog is crucial. Googan Baits Mondo Frog is one of the most robust hollow body frog baits. It’s made with super tough plastic and has double reinforced legs, meaning it can inspire confidence to cast into the nastiest cover where those trophy bass lurk.
2. Stay Steady on Hooksets
It takes a lot of restraint to not jerk wildly when a bass swirls, boils, or explodes on your frog. But staying steady and not reacting prematurely is vital. When you feel the weight of the fish or see your line take off, then do a strong steady sweep of the rod backwards to drive the hook home. If you rip wildly too soon, you risk pulling the frog away before the bass has it in its mouth.
3. Use Strong Gear for Power Hooksets
Speaking of solid hooksets, having the right gear is key. Use heavy braided line in the 50-65 lb range so you can muscle big bass out of cover. A stout 7-7’6” heavy power rod lets you put the heat on them, while a high speed reel balances it with smooth retrieves and quick hooksets. Don’t skimp here for consistent frog fishing success.
4. Consider a Treble Hook Upgrade
The standard single hook on frog baits works fine much of the time, but upgrading to an extra treble hook near the body increases hookup ratios. The added hook point leverage from a treble helps drive the point home, especially on those big lunging strikes. Just take care when handling and casting to avoid snags.
5. Take Long Accurate Casts
Bass can’t resist a frog bait plopping right in their face, so precision casting is important when frog fishing. Take the time to make long accurate pitches to put your frog bait right on target. Focus on floating it overhangs, openings in grass, under docks, and tight to cover that holds big bass. Stealthy accurate casts lead to explosive strikes.
6. Vary the Retrieves
Keep bass guessing by mixing up your retrieve cadences when frog fishing. Sometimes a steady slow crawl with occasional twitches gets the job done. Other times, ripping it fast across the surface triggers savage attacks. Varying retrieves and cadences makes the frog seem alive and less predictable to bass.
7. Give it a Rest Between Casts
After putting the perfect cast right where you want it, make yourself wait 10-15 seconds before starting the retrieve. That pause when it first hits the water gives fish time to zero in on it. Sometimes they need a few moments for it to fully register as food in their mind before striking.
8. Stay Low and Slow on Hooked Fish
When you connect with a quality bass on a frog bait, take extra care in fighting and landing it. If possible, keep the rod tip low and use a smooth, steady retrieve to keep the line tight. Pulling too hard or high risks pulling the hook free, so play it slow and steady to put that beast in the boat.
9. Downsize in Clear Water
Big bulky frog baits shine in heavy cover, but they can be too much for finicky bass in clear water scenarios. For clearer water with sparse cover, downsize to a smaller profile, more natural colored frog. This presents a less obvious, easy-to-eat profile that converts more strikes.
10. Consider Color Contrasts
Matching frog colors to the prevailing water/cover conditions is always wise. But also consider using contrasting colors to help the frog silhouette stand out. A white belly/darker back, yellow throat patch, bright orange feet, or chartreuse accents can provide added attraction.
11. Watch the Weather
As with most bass fishing techniques, weather plays a big role in frog fishing success. Overcast, low light conditions are ideal for coaxing big bass to strike topwaters. But don’t hesitate to throw a frog in the rain too – the splashing and distortion often triggers savage reaction strikes!
12. Fish Frogs at Night
To take your frog fishing to another level, try night fishing them when big bass go on the prowl. Use black or very dark colored frogs and target shadows along shorelines, docks, and cover. Click your reel occasionally to help bass hone in, then hold on tight!
13. Follow Up Missed Strikes
It’s inevitable that you’ll have bass swirl, boil, or just flat out miss your frog at times. Don’t just immediately pick up and make another cast. Follow up a missed strike by working the frog a bit more to try and trigger another offensive. Many times they’ll go into attack mode and hit it again.
14. Set the Hook on Anything Suspicious
This tip goes hand-in-hand with the last one. Anytime during a frog retrieve that you see, hear, or feel anything out of the ordinary, gently set the hook. Bass swirls and boils often look like misses, so a subtle hook set attempt can convert more strikes. You’ll hook into a fair number of fish this way that you would’ve otherwise missed.
15. Mix in Other Topwaters
To keep bass honest and convert even more strikes, incorporate other topwater baits along with your favorite frog. Topwater walking baits, poppers, and buzzbaits complement a frog nicely. Sometimes bass fixate on a particular topwater bait on a given day, so having options helps you put together the right pattern.
Those are 15 tips and techniques that will help you get more out of frog fishing using Googan Squad frog baits. Follow that advice and you’ll hook and land more bucket mouth bass that’ll give you the thrill of a lifetime! When that mega-strike happens, just remember to stay calm and set the hook properly to get them in the boat. Embrace the excitement that only frog fishing can deliver.