As a seasoned angler and outdoor writer, I’ve spent countless hours chasing bass with topwater lures. And let me tell you, few things are as exhilarating as witnessing a monster explode on a walking bait. The Whopper Plopper, created by River2Sea, has revolutionized the topwater game, and now the Choppo buzzbait is giving it serious competition. This article will break down everything you need to know about the whopper plopper vs choppo, covering sizes, colors, rigging, and when to use each lure to maximize your success. We’ll also explore variations like the white whopper plopper, loon whopper plopper, and more, helping you choose the best whopper plopper for your local waters.
The River2Sea Whopper Plopper (River2Sea Whopper Plopper) gained massive popularity, partly thanks to its appearance in the iconic fishing scene from the movie “The Chosen.” But its success isn’t just about hype. The lure’s unique tail design creates a distinct, attention-grabbing “plopping” sound and surface disturbance that bass can’t resist. It’s a walking bait, meaning it moves side-to-side with a rhythmic action when retrieved. This action mimics an injured baitfish, triggering aggressive strikes.
River2Sea offers the Whopper Plopper in several sizes, each suited for different situations. Choosing the best size whopper plopper depends on the forage base and water clarity.
The best whopper plopper color is often debated, but here’s a breakdown of popular choices:
The Choppo buzzbait (LureLock Choppo Buzzbait) is a relatively newer lure that has quickly gained a following. Unlike the walking action of the Whopper Plopper, the Choppo creates a loud, buzzing commotion on the surface. This is particularly effective in areas with heavy cover or when bass are actively feeding. It’s a more aggressive presentation than the Whopper Plopper.
The Choppo features a unique blade design that maximizes its buzzing action. It’s available in various weights and colors, similar to the Whopper Plopper. The blade material and angle are key to its performance.
So, which lure is better? The answer, as with most fishing questions, is “it depends.” Here’s a detailed choppo vs whopper plopper comparison:
| Feature | Whopper Plopper | Choppo Buzzbait |
|---|---|---|
| Action | Walking, side-to-side | Buzzing, surface commotion |
| Sound | Plopping, subtle disturbance | Loud buzzing |
| Cover | Open water, light cover | Heavy cover, weeds, lily pads |
| Water Clarity | Clear to slightly stained | Murky to stained |
| Retrieval Speed | Moderate to slow | Moderate to fast |
Generally, I reach for the whopper plopper reviewed as a finesse topwater option when I want a more subtle presentation. The Choppo is my go-to when I need to call bass out of heavy cover or when they’re actively feeding on the surface. The river2sea whopper plopper reviews consistently praise its versatility.
Proper rigging and gear are crucial for maximizing your success with both lures. The best line for whopper plopper and Choppo is typically braided line due to its low stretch and high sensitivity. Here’s a breakdown:
The best rod for whopper plopper and Choppo is a medium-heavy to heavy power rod with a fast action. This provides the backbone needed to set the hook and control the fish. A rod length of 7’0” to 7’6” is generally recommended.
While primarily designed for freshwater bass, the whopper plopper saltwater application is gaining traction. The larger sizes (75 and 90) can be effective for species like redfish and snook. However, be sure to rinse the lure thoroughly with freshwater after each use to prevent corrosion.
As outdoor enthusiasts, it’s our responsibility to protect the environment. Always practice Leave No Trace principles (leavenotrace.org) when fishing. This includes packing out all trash, minimizing your impact on vegetation, and respecting wildlife. The USDA Forest Service (fs.usda.gov) and National Park Service (nps.gov) offer valuable resources on responsible outdoor recreation. REI Expert Advice (rei.com) also provides excellent information on fishing ethics and conservation.
Ultimately, the whopper plopper vs choppo debate isn’t about finding a “winner.” It’s about understanding the strengths of each lure and choosing the right tool for the job. Experiment with different sizes, colors, and retrieval techniques to find what works best in your local waters. And remember, the most important thing is to get out there and enjoy the thrill of topwater fishing!