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.
Understanding the Whopper Plopper Phenomenon
The River2Sea Whopper Plopper, as seen in the iconic fishing scene from “The Chosen”, isn’t just a lure; it’s a sensation. Its unique tail design creates a distinct plopping sound and a wake that bass can’t resist. The lure’s effectiveness stems from its ability to mimic a distressed or injured baitfish, triggering predatory instincts. The original whopper plopper started it all, but River2Sea has expanded the line to include various sizes and colors.
Whopper Plopper Sizes: Finding the Right Fit
Choosing the best size whopper plopper depends on several factors, including water clarity, forage size, and bass size. Here’s a breakdown:
- Whopper Plopper 60: Ideal for clear water and smaller forage. Great for pressured fish.
- Whopper Plopper 75: A versatile size, suitable for a wide range of conditions. Often considered the best whopper plopper size for bass in many scenarios.
- Whopper Plopper 90: Best for murky water or when targeting larger bass. The whopper plopper 90 weight is substantial, allowing for longer casts.
- Double Whopper Plopper: A larger, more aggressive option for big bass in heavily covered areas.
I often recommend starting with the 75 size as a general all-around option. If the fish are finicky, downsize to the 60. If you’re fishing in thick cover or targeting giants, the 90 is your best bet.
Whopper Plopper Colors: Matching the Hatch
The best whopper plopper color is often dictated by water clarity and the prevalent forage. Here’s a guide:
- Bone Whopper Plopper: Excellent in clear water, mimicking shad or other light-colored baitfish.
- Black Whopper Plopper: Effective in low-light conditions or murky water, creating a strong silhouette.
- Loon Whopper Plopper: A popular choice, offering a good balance of visibility and natural appearance.
- Clear Whopper Plopper: Best for extremely clear water where you want a subtle presentation.
- Perch Whopper Plopper: Ideal for waters with a strong perch population.
Don’t be afraid to experiment! I’ve had success with a variety of colors depending on the day and location.
The Choppo Buzzbait: A Rising Star
The Choppo buzzbait, while newer to the scene, has quickly gained a loyal following. Unlike the walking action of the whopper plopper, the Choppo creates a commotion with its rotating blade, attracting bass from a distance. It’s a fantastic option when you want a more aggressive presentation. The choppo vs whopper plopper debate often comes down to personal preference and fishing conditions.
Choppo Features and Benefits
- Aggressive Wake: The spinning blade creates a noticeable wake and sound.
- Versatility: Can be fished at various speeds.
- Durability: Well-constructed and built to withstand aggressive strikes.
Whopper Plopper vs Choppo: A Head-to-Head Comparison
Let’s break down the key differences between these two topwater powerhouses:
| Feature | Whopper Plopper | Choppo Buzzbait |
|---|---|---|
| Action | Walking-the-dog | Buzzing/Commotion |
| Sound | Plopping, subtle wake | Loud buzzing, aggressive wake |
| Water Clarity | Versatile, but excels in clear to slightly murky | Best in murky or stained water |
| Forage Imitation | Baitfish | Distressed baitfish/injured prey |
| Retrieval Speed | Moderate to slow | Variable, can be fished fast or slow |
Ultimately, the choppo vs whopper plopper choice depends on the situation. If you want a subtle presentation in clear water, the Whopper Plopper is a great choice. If you need to create a lot of commotion in murky water, the Choppo is the way to go.
Rigging and Gear Recommendations
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 what I recommend:
Line
- Braided Line: 30-50 lb test. I prefer a superline like PowerPro or Sufix 832.
- Leader (Optional): 12-20 lb test fluorocarbon leader.
Rod
The best rod for whopper plopper and Choppo is a medium-heavy to heavy power, fast-action rod. Look for a rod with a good backbone to handle aggressive strikes and a sensitive tip to detect subtle bites.
- Rod Length: 7’0” – 7’6”
- Power: Medium-Heavy to Heavy
- Action: Fast
Reel
- A baitcasting reel with a gear ratio of 6.3:1 or higher is ideal.
Can You Fish the Whopper Plopper in Saltwater?
Yes! The whopper plopper saltwater application is becoming increasingly popular. However, you’ll need to take a few precautions to prevent corrosion. Rinse the lure thoroughly with freshwater after each use and consider using stainless steel split rings and hooks. The larger sizes (75 and 90) are best suited for saltwater applications, targeting species like redfish, snook, and even small tarpon. River2Sea provides additional guidance on saltwater use.
River2Sea Whopper Plopper Review: My Overall Impression
After years of using the River2Sea whopper plopper review, I can confidently say it’s a game-changer. Its unique action and sound consistently produce strikes, even when other lures fail. The durability is excellent, and the wide range of sizes and colors allows you to adapt to any fishing situation. While the Choppo is a fantastic lure in its own right, the Whopper Plopper remains my go-to topwater bait for most scenarios. I highly recommend adding several whopper plopper colors to your tackle box.
Leave No Trace and Responsible Fishing
As outdoor enthusiasts, it’s our responsibility to protect the environment. Always practice Leave No Trace principles (leavenotrace.org) when fishing. Pack out all trash, avoid disturbing wildlife, and respect the natural resources. The USDA Forest Service (fs.usda.gov) and the National Park Service (nps.gov) offer valuable resources on responsible outdoor recreation. REI Expert Advice (rei.com) also provides excellent information on sustainable fishing practices.
Tight lines and happy fishing!