Topwater fishing delivers some of the most exciting moments in angling, but it also exposes one of the most common weaknesses among anglers. Missing strikes. According to Rick Clunn, the problem is not the fish. It is the angler’s reaction.
The visual nature of topwater fishing creates a powerful instinct to react immediately. When a fish explodes on the surface, the natural response is to set the hook. That response is often too early. Clunn emphasizes that anglers must train themselves to ignore the visual cue and focus on feel. The bait should continue moving until the weight of the fish is felt. Only then should the hook be set. This shift in mindset is the single most important factor in improving hookup ratios.
Rod position is a critical component of this approach. On long casts, Clunn begins with a high rod tip to maintain the surface action of the bait. This position keeps the bait working correctly and allows for better control during the retrieve. As the bait moves closer to the boat, he gradually lowers the rod to maintain the proper angle for both presentation and hookset.
The ideal hookset position is around the ten o’clock angle, says Clunn. This provides the leverage needed to drive hooks effectively. Setting the hook from a vertical position limits control and reduces efficiency. The angle of the rod determines how much power can be transferred, and maintaining the correct position ensures that the hookset is effective when the time comes.
After the hookset, the focus immediately shifts to maintaining pressure. Clunn’s main principle is that reeling secures the fish. Aggressive, continuous reeling drives the hooks in and prevents slack. Many anglers make the mistake of setting the hook and then pausing. That pause creates an opportunity for the fish to throw the bait. By keeping the reel engaged, the angler maintains control.
Preventing jumps is another key factor. Topwater fish are already near the surface, making them more likely to jump. Clunn anticipates this and adjusts his approach accordingly. As the fish rises, he continues reeling and uses controlled rod movement to keep it from clearing the water. If the fish does attempt to jump, he applies pressure to bring it back under control quickly.
The retrieve itself plays a major role in generating strikes. Clunn incorporates pauses into his presentation, allowing the bait to sit and create opportunity. Many strikes occur during these pauses, especially when fish are investigating rather than attacking. With Livingston’s biological sound system, the bait continues to emit sound even when stationary, increasing its effectiveness during these moments.
Speed is another critical element. In warmer water, faster retrieves often produce better results. Clunn pushes the speed of his retrieve to the limit, reeling as fast as possible while maintaining the bait’s action. This creates a sense of urgency that triggers predatory instinct. At the same time, he varies speed and incorporates pauses to keep the presentation unpredictable.
The initial cast is often overlooked, but it plays a significant role. When the bait lands, it creates a disturbance that sends signals through the water. Instead of immediately engaging the bait, Clunn allows it to sit and let the rings expand. This moment of stillness can draw fish in before the retrieve even begins. It is a subtle but important part of the presentation.
Topwater fishing is not just about excitement. It is about control, timing, and discipline. By focusing on feel instead of sight, maintaining proper rod position, and committing to continuous pressure, anglers can dramatically reduce missed strikes and lost fish. The techniques are straightforward, but they require practice and awareness to execute consistently.
For Clunn, the appeal of topwater fishing goes beyond effectiveness. It is about connection. Watching a fish rise and take a bait provides a level of excitement that cannot be matched. When combined with a disciplined approach, it becomes not only one of the most entertaining ways to fish, but one of the most effective.
