by MyFWC

Question by : topwater lures for saltwater?
I just bought a heddon super spook. It’s color is “red fish” and it looks like a small redfish. I was wondering if anyone has used this color or if color even matters. Reviews/tips please? thanks!

Best answer:

Answer by Ole Fisherman
Where are you fishing? What are you fishing for? What’s the clarity of the water? Offshore or Inshore?

YES, color matters.

Realize- the most important part of a Topwater lure, (for any application in salt OR freshwater), is the belly. When your working a Topwater lure the fish are only getting a good look at the bottom. SO, it’s important the bottom has either a “realistic” look or a “bright” look.

Realistic look??- When your fishing in “gin clear” to barely stained waters, (where you can easily see 4-5 deep) a more natural bottom, (and sides) is more important. Basically, your quarry is able to get a better look at the lure. A cream/white/bone belly with red, orange or chartreuse “gills” is good in this type of water clarity.

Bright look??- In stained to muddy water a brighter color MUST be on the bottom of the lure. In this case, a chartreuse, orange, or lime colored belly with contrasting “gills” is better. In fact, contrasting colors, (like red head/white body, chartreuse head/black body, Etc) can work very well.

You mentioned Redfish, so I’m gonna assume your fishing for Reds, Spec Trout, Flounder, Etc??

The Super Spook CAN be an excellent choice for a lure. However, I’ve had more luck, (in Inshore waters) with the Spook Jr- a slightly smaller sized Spook- http://www.basspro.com/Heddon-Saltwater-Super-Zara-Spook-Jr-/product/27430/66603

Spooks, (in general), work best early in the morning, late in the evening, or during calm overcast days. AND you MUST learn how to use a “walk the dog” retrieve for it to work- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-FTd_S-DI40

In my personal experience, Spook Jr’s are esp effective on Spec Trout, small Tarpon and Ladyfish, and the occasional Red. (Because Reds have a down-turned mouth it can be very difficult for them to inhale a Topwater.)

I like to modify my Spooks with a size 2 “dressed” treble (in back) and an EWG Gamakatsu size 2 hook, (in front). I also switch the O-rings for ones that are stronger.

Hope this helps?

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