Topwater Popper Fishing on Susquehanna River
Susquehanna River · Pennsylvania · Northeast
The North and West branches of the Susquehanna are renowned for wild smallmouth bass that average 2–3 lbs with fish to 5+ lbs possible. Current breaks behind boulders and mid-stream islands concentrate fish. Wading and kayak fishing are ideal here.
A floating hard bait with a concave face that produces a spitting, popping action when twitched. Most effective in low-light conditions near cover — points, dock edges, weed lines, and grass pockets. The pause after the pop is where most strikes happen. Few experiences in fishing match watching a largemouth explode on a popper.
Topwater Popper Setup for Susquehanna River
| Rod | 6'10"–7'3" medium casting rod, moderate action |
| Reel | 6.4:1 baitcaster or spinning |
| Line | 14–17 lb fluorocarbon or 30 lb braid (braid gives better action and hooksets) |
| Weight | 1/4–1/2 oz (Rebel Pop-R, Megabass Pop-X, Strike King KVD Splash) |
Seasonal Tactics on Susquehanna River
Lake: Spawn in May–June on gravel flats at 3–6 ft. Finesse plastics and tube jigs.
Topwater Popper: First light on spawning flats — fish hold shallow and crush surface baits. Slow cadence with long pauses.
Lake: Prime season. Smallmouth stack in pools below rapids. Ned rigs, tubes, and topwater poppers at dusk.
Topwater Popper: 30-minute window at dawn and dusk. Fish dock shade and grass pockets. Noon topwater dies.
Lake: Excellent reaction bite. Inline spinners and small swimbaits in current.
Topwater Popper: Extended feeding window as water cools. Fish can be caught on top all day in fall.
Lake: Very slow. Most productive fish move very little.
Topwater Popper: Generally ineffective in water below 55°F — bass won't chase topwater in cold conditions.
Best Conditions
Dawn and dusk year-round, overcast days, calm to light-chop surface, spring through fall near cover and grass edges
Don't set the hook on the explosion — wait until you feel the fish pull the line. Half of all missed popper strikes are from anglers jerking too early.
More Techniques for Susquehanna River
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