Largemouth Bass: Targeting Backwaters with Topwater Lures and Spinnerbaits

In June, largemouth bass in the Midwest are often found in shallow, weedy backwaters, especially in lakes and river systems. These areas provide cover, abundant forage, and ideal spawning or post-spawn conditions. Largemouth bass are known for their aggressive strikes, and topwater lures and spinnerbaits are particularly effective for eliciting explosive reactions. Two standout topwater lures for largemouth bass are the River2Sea Whopper Plopper and the Heddon Zara Spook, while spinnerbaits shine in specific conditions.

River2Sea Whopper Plopper

The River2Sea Whopper Plopper is a modern classic that has revolutionized topwater fishing. Its propeller-like tail creates a distinctive “plopping” sound and surface commotion that mimics a struggling baitfish, drawing largemouth bass from a distance. In June, when bass are cruising backwaters or holding near vegetation, the Whopper Plopper excels. Available in various sizes (e.g., 60, 75, 90, and 130), the smaller 60 and 75 models are ideal for pressured waters or when bass are keying in on smaller forage like bluegill. Colors such as Bone, Chrome, or Loon work well in the Midwest’s stained or clear waters.

Fishing Tip: Cast the Whopper Plopper near lily pads, submerged grass, or fallen timber in backwaters. Retrieve at a steady pace, occasionally pausing or adding a slight twitch to mimic a wounded baitfish. The lure’s unique sound profile makes it effective even in choppy water or low-light conditions, such as early morning or evening. Anglers have reported success with this lure in Midwest waters like Lake of the Ozarks, where largemouth bass ambush prey in shallow cover.

Heddon Zara Spook

The Heddon Zara Spook, a legendary topwater lure since 1939, is renowned for its “walk-the-dog” action. This cigar-shaped bait zigzags across the surface, imitating a fleeing shad or minnow, which triggers aggressive strikes from largemouth bass. In June, the Zara Spook is particularly effective in calm backwaters or along the edges of weed beds, where bass are actively feeding. The Super Spook Jr. (3.5 inches) is a great choice for targeting smaller or finicky bass, while the standard 4.5-inch model works for larger fish.

Fishing Tip: Use a medium-heavy rod with braided line (40-pound test) to achieve long casts and control the lure’s side-to-side motion. Work the Zara Spook with short, sharp twitches of the rod tip, allowing pauses to let the lure sit in the strike zone. In Midwest lakes like those in Minnesota or Wisconsin, target areas with hydrilla or pencil grass for best results. Patience is key—wait until you feel the fish before setting the hook to avoid pulling the lure away prematurely.

Spinnerbaits

Spinnerbaits are versatile lures that shine in backwaters with moderate cover, such as scattered weeds, stumps, or brush. Their pulsating blades create flash and vibration, attracting largemouth bass in stained water or during windy conditions. In June, when bass are post-spawn and feeding heavily, spinnerbaits in white, chartreuse, or shad-colored patterns are highly effective. A 3/8-ounce spinnerbait with a willow/Colorado blade combination is a solid choice for covering water quickly.

Fishing Tip: Cast spinnerbaits along the edges of backwater channels or near submerged structure. Vary your retrieve speed to keep the lure just above the grass or weeds. In rivers like the Mississippi, where backwaters are prevalent, spinnerbaits can draw strikes from bass holding near current breaks or flooded timber. Adding a soft plastic trailer can enhance the lure’s profile and buoyancy.

Smallmouth Bass: Fishing Shallow Rocky Areas with Ned Rigs and Hair Jigs

Smallmouth bass, known for their acrobatic fights, thrive in the Midwest’s clear rivers and rocky lakeshores in June. Shallow rocky areas, such as riffles, boulder-strewn banks, or gravel bars, are prime spots as smallmouth feed on crawfish and minnows. Finesse techniques like Ned rigs and hair jigs (e.g., Jim DeZurik’s River Bug) are ideal for targeting these bronzebacks in shallow, rocky environments.

Ned Rigs

The Ned rig is a finesse powerhouse for smallmouth bass, consisting of a small mushroom-head jig paired with a soft plastic stickbait, like the Z-Man TRD. Its subtle action mimics a small crawfish or baitfish, making it irresistible to smallmouth in clear, rocky waters. In June, when smallmouth are actively feeding in shallow areas, the Ned rig’s slow, bottom-hugging presentation is deadly.

Fishing Tip: Use a 1/8- to 1/4-ounce jighead with a 2.75-inch stickbait in colors like green pumpkin or crawfish. Cast to rocky points, gravel bars, or current seams in rivers like the St. Croix or Upper Mississippi. Drag the lure slowly along the bottom, pausing occasionally to let it sit. Smallmouth often strike on the pause, so watch for subtle line twitches. A spinning rod with 8-pound fluorocarbon line enhances sensitivity and casting distance.

Hair Jigs (Jim DeZurik’s River Bug)

Hair jigs, such as Jim DeZurik’s River Bug, are a traditional yet highly effective choice for smallmouth bass in shallow rocky areas. These jigs, often made with bucktail or marabou, imitate crawfish or sculpins with lifelike movement. The River Bug’s compact size and subtle action make it perfect for clear-water rivers where smallmouth are wary.

Fishing Tip: Choose a 1/8- to 1/4-ounce hair jig in natural colors like brown, black, or olive. Cast to rocky outcrops or eddies and work the jig with a slow, hopping retrieve, keeping it close to the bottom. In Midwest rivers like the Missouri or Wisconsin, target areas with moderate current where smallmouth ambush prey. Pair the jig with a spinning rod and 6- to 8-pound fluorocarbon for optimal control and sensitivity.

General Tips for June Bass Fishing

• Timing: Fish early mornings, late evenings, or cloudy days for the best topwater action. Smallmouth may feed throughout the day in rocky, current-driven areas.
• Weather: Overcast skies or light rain can extend topwater bites, while clear, sunny days favor finesse presentations like Ned rigs.
• Location: Focus on backwaters for largemouth and rocky shorelines or river riffles for smallmouth. Use electronics to locate submerged structure if fishing from a boat.
• Gear: A medium-heavy baitcasting setup with braided line works for topwater lures and spinnerbaits, while a medium-light spinning rod with fluorocarbon is ideal for Ned rigs and hair jigs.

Conclusion

June bass fishing in the Midwest is a thrilling experience, with largemouth and smallmouth bass offering unique challenges and rewards. For largemouth in backwaters, the River2Sea Whopper Plopper, Heddon Zara Spook, and spinnerbaits are go-to lures for explosive topwater action. For smallmouth in shallow rocky areas, Ned rigs and hair jigs like Jim DeZurik’s River Bug provide finesse and precision. By matching your lure choice to the environment and bass behavior, you’ll be well-equipped to land trophy fish. Grab your gear, hit the water, and enjoy the adrenaline rush of Midwest bass fishing this June!