The hollow body frog, a topwater meal for hungry bass and other aggressive predators, is a summertime staple for many anglers.
But what happens when the weather throws you a curveball? Don't shelve your frog just yet!
With a few tweaks to your approach, you can keep the strikes coming even as the skies shift.
Tip 1: Mind the Bass' Mood
A bass's metabolism slows down in calmer and cooler water, so they'll be less inclined to chase down a speedy frog. Adapt your retrieve to a slower, more deliberate pace with longer pauses. Let the frog sit enticingly on the surface, mimicking a vulnerable froggy snack. This gives the fish time to zero in and commit to eating the frog.
Tip 2: Match Color to Light Conditions
Ditch the bright colors of summer for more subdued tones in low-light conditions. Think black, brown, or olive green with subtle hints of chartreuse or white. These hues offer better visibility for fish in overcast or murky water.
Tip 3: Embrace the Edges
As water temperatures drop and light levels decline, fish tend to gravitate towards warmer shallows and structure. Focus your casts on areas like weed edges, fallen logs, and docks where bass might be basking or hiding in ambush. These sheltered spots offer both comfort and potential prey, making them prime targets for your froggy friend.
Take a little time and watch as bass guru Kevin VanDam describes how he approaches changing his frog and presentation according to current weather patterns...
Remember, the key to success with hollow body frogs in changing weather is adaptability. By adjusting your retrieve, color selection and target areas, you can keep those explosive frog bites coming all season long.
Bonus Tip: Don't be afraid to experiment! Different retrieves, like walking the frog or using a popping motion, can be effective depending on the conditions and the fish's mood. The more you practice, the better you'll understand how to make the frog dance to your way, no matter what the weather throws your way.
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