Frog fishing is often associated with late spring, summer, or fall. MLF’s Fred Roumbanis argues that early spring is an overlooked and excellent time to throw a frog. He shares several tips ranging from key water temperatures to observe, the ideal habitat, what to look for in a good frog, and the best rod setup for hollow body frog fishing.
TACKLE USED (retail links)
- FROG – Stanford Baits Boom Boom Frog Buy at Tackle Warehouse Wired2fish Review
- ROD – SixGill Anura Casting Rod 7’5″ Heavy: Buy at SixGill
- ROD#2 – SixGill Lykan Casting Rod 7’3″ Medium Heavy: Buy at SixGill
- REEL – SixGill Hamarr Casting Reel 7.1:1: Buy at SixGill
- LINE – Cortland Master Braid, 50-pound: Buy at Amazon
One of the most popular types of frogs for bass fishing is the hollow body collapsible frog, which floats on top of the water and requires the angler to control its movement. The Boom Boom Frog, designed by Fred, is a prime example. With unique features like fur on the back, which grips the fish’s teeth, the Boom Boom Frog offers a better hookup ratio than many other frogs on the market.
In early April, as the water temperature reaches 56 degrees, you might expect to be unsuccessful with frog fishing. However, by targeting shallow areas with wood debris, you can catch bass that have moved up due to warm days and are lingering in the shallows.
It’s essential to pay attention to the fish’s mood and adapt the lure’s movement accordingly. Walk the frog across open water or over cover – snapping the rod creates a walk-the-dog action and popping sound. This technique attract basss, especially in windy conditions.
While there are no best fishing rods and reels for all occasions, Roubanis offers up some excellent options. A fast 7:1 gear ratio reel and a heavy-action frog rod provides the power and control needed for frog fishing. When fishing in shallower areas, consider using an 8:1 reel to help cover more water and improve hookup ratios. Additionally, downsizing from a 65-pound to a 50-pound braided line supports longer casts and smoother bait movement.
As the water temperature rises in early spring, don’t hesitate to tie on a frog and explore the shallow areas for bass. With the right equipment and techniques, you might be surprised at the success you can achieve frog fishing in the early spring.
