I throw top water baits a lot more than the average person, but preferably early morning and late afternoon are best. Yet, I caught several limits last summer throwing top water in the middle of the day. My presentation depends on how active the fish are (winter time I fish smaller baits with a slower presentation). Most of the time presentation is determined as I go and is dependent on the structure and depth of an area. You wouldn't typically throw a shallow suspending swim bait or top water if you're fishing 15-20 foot of water near the channel or a deep hole. Those spots usually work best with letting soft plastics sink to the bottom and bounce around(yet there's always an exception to every rule... I've caught fish on top water in deep water before, but your best chances are bouncing the bottom) I constantly change my presentation when fishing plastics to determine what they are in the mood for. (Like every cast) my best advice is to find a bait that you have CONFIDENCE in. I have several friends who have no confidence in bait selection and constantly change lures. This is a huge downfall. Pick the right color bait based on water clarity and stick with it!!! Many professionals will tell you that if the fish are biting, it doesn't matter what the hell you throw. i can't stress enough how Important confidence is, yet 90% of the battle is learning how to pattern the fish.... If you're fishing in the wrong spot you can change presentation until the cows come home and it won't matter. Hope this helped a little.
|