Kylek, got this from a BPS magazine article about early spring on their website.
High on this list is a long, slender, floating minnow, such as the Normark Floating Rapala or Rebel Minnow. This is the traditional “first topwater” for many fishermen, and for good reason. When the water temperature hits 60 degrees, bass still aren’t far removed from the lethargy of winter. However, on a calm, warm day in early spring, these fish will attack a floating minnow which is bobbled within easy striking distance. This bait’s delicate presentation matches the fish’s reticent mood this time of year.
As water temperature climbs into the mid-60s, bass’ metabolism rises correspondingly. Now faster, louder baits come into play. Three standards choices are poppers, propeller baits and walking baits. Popular examples of poppers are the Rebel Pop-R, Storm Chug Bug, and the venerable Arbogast Hula Popper. In prop baits, the Smithwick Devil’s Horse and Heddon Tiny Torpedo are winners. And standby walking baits include the Heddon Zara Spook, Lucky Craft Sammy and Rapala Skitter Walk.
