Chloe Zhang
Soft plastic frogs are a popular choice for fishing enthusiasts, particularly those interested in bass fishing. They are a fun and exciting way to fish, as they can be launched into thick cover, reeled over dry land, and even fished in shallow water. The key to successful frog baiting lies in the sound and speed of retrieval. Different types of frogs, such as the Rage Tail and Horny Toad, produce varying sounds due to the thickness of their feet. Thicker feet create louder, more violent sounds, while thinner feet produce more subtle disturbances. The speed of retrieval is critical, as a faster retrieval rate may be necessary to achieve the desired sound. Additionally, the type of hook used is important. EWG hooks are commonly used, but the screw lock method is recommended for soft plastic frogs due to their thickness.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of bait | Topwater toad/buzzing toad/soft buzzbait |
| Sound | Thicker feet create a louder, more violent sound; thinner feet are more subtle |
| Speed | Thicker feet need to be retrieved more quickly to create the desired sound |
| Best types | Rage Tail Toad, Zoom Horny Toad, Stanley Ribbit, Sizmic Toad |
| Hook type | EWG hook/offset hook/Wide Gap hook |
| Hook angle | A slight upward angle increases the hookup ratio |
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What You'll Learn
Hollow-bodied frogs are versatile and effective
Hollow body frogs are excellent for fishing in extremely matted vegetation or grass lines. They can be fished as "swimming underwater frogs" or used as topwater baits. When fishing in open water or light cover, anglers may choose to scale down to a medium-heavy power rod for better bait handling and casting accuracy.
The two primary types of hollow body frogs are popping frogs and walking frogs. Popping frogs have a flatter bottom and a cupped mouth, while walking frogs have a pointed nose and a keeled bottom. Popping frogs are ideal for aggressive fish or surface-feeding baitfish, while walking frogs are better for finicky fish or thicker cover. Walking frogs are also a good choice in the early spring when bass may be hesitant to bite more aggressive baits.
When using hollow body frogs, it is important to use heavy braided fishing line. The no-stretch properties of braided line make it ideal for driving the hook home and removing fish from cover. A line weight of 50 lbs is a good starting point, but heavier line may be necessary depending on the thickness of the cover. Anglers should also pay attention to the colour of the belly of the frog, as this is typically all that the bass will see.
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Choosing the right rod
When choosing a frog fishing rod, it is crucial to consider its action, power, length, and components. The rod should be able to handle a heavy braided line, which is essential for frog fishing, while still providing decent casting performance and accuracy. A baitcasting reel is commonly paired with a frog fishing rod, as it offers greater control and allows for one-arm casting and thumb control for precise lure placement.
The weight of the rod is also an important consideration. While cheaper rods tend to be heavier, a lightweight rod can reduce fatigue when working a frog for extended periods. Additionally, the sensitivity of the rod tip can improve casting accuracy and striking ability. A durable and powerful blank can be challenging to find in off-the-shelf rods, but building your own rod allows for increased control over these specific components.
When selecting a frog fishing rod, it is advisable to choose one that suits your specific fishing requirements. For example, if you plan to fish in areas with dense vegetation or heavy covers, a rod with extra-fast action may be preferable. However, in some situations, a moderate-fast action rod can also get the job done. Ultimately, finding a rod that balances weight, power, action, and length within your budget will ensure an enjoyable and successful frog fishing experience.
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The best hooks for plastic frogs
When it comes to choosing the best hooks for plastic frogs, there are a few recommended options. Firstly, it is important to distinguish between hollow and solid plastic frogs. Hollow-bodied frogs are typically used as topwater bait and often come pre-hooked, whereas solid plastic frogs are just another "soft plastic" and require separate hooks for effective fishing.
One recommended hook type for plastic frogs is the Wide Gap hook, specifically the 2/0 or 3/0 size. These hooks provide a sufficient gap to accommodate thick soft plastics and ensure a secure hold. Another option is to use EWG (Extra Wide Gap) hooks, which are suitable for both solid and hollow plastic frogs. EWG hooks are designed with a wider gap that works well with thick plastics and provides a strong hookset.
For hollow plastic frogs, the screw lock method is highly recommended. This method involves using a screw lock hook, such as the EWG hook with a screw lock, to securely attach the hook to the frog. The screw lock mechanism ensures that the hook remains firmly in place, even when fished as a "swimming underwater frog" lure. This method adds security when fishing in deeper waters or around structures where a solid connection is crucial.
Additionally, when using plastic frogs, consider the Texas-rig style of hook insertion. This method involves inserting the hook with or without a weight, and it is commonly used with EWG hooks. There are numerous resources available online that demonstrate the Texas rig setup process. It is important to note that regular worm hooks may not be suitable for plastic frogs due to their narrower gap, which can make it challenging to achieve good hooksets in thick soft plastics.
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How to set the hook
Setting the hook is the process of driving the hooks of a plastic frog bait into the mouth of a fish. There are two methods for setting the hook: the visual method and the feel method.
The visual method involves treating the frog like a bobber. When the frog disappears underwater, reel down and set the hook. Avoid setting the hook if the frog is still visible. Keep working the bait and wait for a better bite.
The feel method is used when fishing around cover makes maintaining a constant visual of the frog challenging. In this case, set the hook only when you feel the weight of the fish. Bass, in particular, tend to eat a frog and then pull back. This is a great way of knowing that they have the frog deep in their mouth.
In both instances, a hard, straight, upward rod sweep is optimal for driving the hooks into the roof of a bass's mouth.
When it comes to the hooks themselves, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, the hooks should be sharp. Secondly, the angle of the hook point compared to the back of the bait is important. If the hook point runs parallel to the back of the bait, consider swapping it out. An upward angle to the hook point makes a frog "stickier" in a fish's mouth. This can be achieved by bending the hook upwards slightly, although this can be tricky to get right. Too much of an angle and the hook will constantly snag cover; too little and the hook may bury itself in the plastic, making it harder to set. An alternative is to swap out the hook for a different model with an upward bend built into it.
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The sound of the bait
The Zoom Horny Toad, a popular buzz toad, is known for its crisp and consistent sound. Its thin, sharply cut feet allow it to be reeled in at a moderate to very fast pace, making it ideal for fishing during the warmer months. The Horny Toad can be rigged weedless with a technique-specific frog hook or a simple 4/0 Extra Wide Gap (EWG) hook.
The Sizmic Toad, on the other hand, blends the sounds of the Horny Toad and the Stanley Ribbit. It is a versatile bait that can be used as a trailer on swim jigs, vibrating jigs, and other baits. The EWG hook is commonly used with this toad, but the screw lock method is also recommended due to the thickness of the plastic.
The speed of retrieval also plays a crucial role in creating the desired sound. Thicker-footed baits, like the Rage Tail, require faster retrieval to generate the intended louder sound. In contrast, baits with thinner feet, like the Horny Toad, can be retrieved more slowly while still producing a subtle, desired sound.
When using a plastic frog as a topwater toad, the excitement lies in watching the little kicking-leg frog scurry along the surface, creating a distinct sound and disturbance. This technique often results in heart-stopping bites, as they can be fished at a fast pace. Additionally, the topwater toads' ability to be fished weedless makes them versatile, allowing them to be cast into thick cover or even over dry land.
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Frequently asked questions
EWG hooks are a good option, but the screw lock method is best due to the thickness of the plastic. You can also use a simple 4/0 Extra Wide Gap (EWG) hook.
The hook should be inserted Texas-rig style, with or without a weight.
You need a rod with a good tip action to load the lighter bait on the cast and be able to get it out there. A medium-heavy power, fast to mod-fast action rod is ideal.
The weight of the hook is usually enough to sink a toad slowly, so when you pause, it will go under the surface. Keep it moving to keep it gurgling on top.
The Zoom Horny Toad is the gold standard when it comes to buzz toads. It has a crisp action due to its two sharply cut, thin feet.
