How To Choose The Right Rod For Fishing Every Topwater!

Summer is here and that means topwater for a lot of guys. Today, we breakdown how we go about choosing a topwater rod and which ones are our favorites!
Products in this video:
Megabass Jerkbait Special:
thehookuptackl...
Megabass P5 Madbull:
thehookuptackl...
Daiwa Steez AGS 7'2 M:
thehookuptackl...
Ever Green Combat Stick Shower Blow Rod:
thehookuptackl...
Megabass Levante Flat Side Special:
thehookuptackl...
Megabass TS Destroyer Poker:
thehookuptackl...
Daiwa Steez AGS 7'4 XH:
thehookuptackl...
Megabass P5 Killer Code:
thehookuptackl...
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[@buzzjet1914]

AWESOME VIDEO. We definitively need a part II to adress: - wakebaits - finesse frogs - finesse walking baits - Prop baits Thank you

[@thehookuptackle_usa]

Thank you for watching!

[@dong8307]

Great breakdown. Not a fan of a high dollar rod for buzzbaits and prefer a rod of $250 or less. I use a 7’3” Dobyns MH and it works great. Cheers 🍻

[@nflisrigged1395]

I got the 7'3 "magheavy Dobbins extra fast action Definitely good rods.... Try a megabass levante if u like treble hook baits I got a flatside special 7'0 meduim , the build quality is AMAZING!!!!!

[@parkersutton6422]

A topwater rod video and Griff didn't mention the Lilypad Survivor? I'm shook! ;) Great video my dudes!

[@thehookuptackle_usa]

Maybe because he doesn't have one any more 🥲

[@parkersutton6422]

@@thehookuptackle_usa RIP 🥺

[@gstixfishing9746]

Hey hey…. Don’t bring back bad memories

[@christianhurtado6095]

Wo wo wo is Griff the real current CHAMP!!!! Ben too quickly changed subjects there my guy!

[@charlesthomas5926]

I'm with Ben 5000 rods just because 😂😂 great video guys 🍻 Griff your the man dude 👊🎣

[@thehookuptackle_usa]

The more the better right?! 😂🍻

[@johnjenkins52]

These are some of my favorite videos because I feel like there are a plethora of videos on each bait but there are hardly any on the gear to throw those baits 👍

[@thehookuptackle_usa]

Cool! Glad its useful!! Thank you for watching 🍻

[@xyzman001]

Im like Griff. I have really 1 topwater rod that I use everytime I fish. Previously I had the Megabass x4 F6-72x4 that did it all for topwater including 1/4oz poppers to King daddy frogs. It ended up breaking after years of use. Unfortunately it's not in production anymore but I picked up a Tequila Baccarac to replace it. Hopefully the TQ will be able to handle it all. If not the P5 Madbull is currently at the top of list for lighter topwater baits

[@thehookuptackle_usa]

TB is a super dope versatile rod!~

[@brianlee9074]

One top water setup for me too. Daiwa Aird-X 7MF BPS PQ2 reel. 10lb mono. Yeah. ✌🏻🎣

[@reelbassreviews3481]

I also love the universal light for poppers and smaller walking baits

[@GwenStefaniGuild]

Guys, Conquest 7’ Med/Med-Hvy MBR can cover all your top water, chatterbait and mid size spinner’s, lipless, and squarebill. My opinion, but walks a showerblows like no other

[@ivanlaz5113]

Steez 7’2 heavy is a really nice frog rod like really nice

[@thehookuptackle_usa]

👍🍻

[@philipfalco7304]

Great Video guys! I've been using a 7' 13 Fishing FATE black cranking rod for my lighter Topwater and the 6'10' Med. Expride A for the slightly heavier stuff. Working fine so far.

[@chickenfriedsteak3669]

Hell yeah........... Good show guys, Thanks ferrrr showin ana sharin' ! Ben for President :) #BenForPresident

[@thehookuptackle_usa]

Thank you for watching! 😂🍻

[@rodneysmith4153]

Am I crazy? I’ve been using a Poison Adrena 6’11 M+ as my my topwater rod. I use a 6’10 M for poppers. I am trying an NRX+ 843C for topwater walking baits. I know it’s overkill as a top water rod. I use braid, so I cut off the leader and use it for free rigs, Senkos, and lots of other stuff when the topwater bite isn’t on. Crazy?

[@illinibassin]

The Millerods Castfreak has been working really well for walking baits and buzzbaits with 30lb braid. I also have the Evergreen Showerblows rod that does wonders with the larger walkers.

[@thehookuptackle_usa]

Both excellent options!!

[@Dirty19Delta]

Great video as usual fellas. I’m in love with my 7’ M poison glorious for any non walking topwater I have. The bit of fiberglass in the tip really helps keep ‘em pinned. But like you say Ben, it’s too soft to walk bait’s correctly. For bigger walking baits its my poison Adriana Tour versital or my P5 110 stick for smaller ones and the popmax.

[@NFiltr8Red]

I have 8 combos 2 heavy 4 Mediums 2 light weight for Crappie/Blue hills I would say my Tatula Elite AGS 7MF is my work horse do it all rod. 3000 Ballistic- 20 lb Samurai braid. I take that thing everywhere cause if it breaks or gets stolen, not too heart broken. If my Exist or Stella gets stolen…….. I’m pissed!

[@spinningrodfisherman]

For spinning rods I use the orochii ronin for close quarters top water and its amazing. Almost dont loose any fish on it

[@kenbrown5449]

Welllll... you did say sometime last year you were gonna do a topwater rod breakdown... And I've been waiting a long time to hear what you have to say on the subject. So, on to the video. Thanks! ;)

[@shannoncrouch444]

I have been waiting g for a video like this thank you

[@thehookuptackle_usa]

Thank you for watching!

[@90cruiser91]

Would you ever consider the Madbull for a 1/2 oz Jackhammer with trailer. Love your guys videos. Keep ‘em coming.

[@thehookuptackle_usa]

A lot of people love the Madbull for jackhammers

[@90cruiser91]

Very much appreciated. I’m calling tomorrow. Seems very versatile for lots of techniques. Thanks again and keep up the great content.

[@90cruiser91]

Dang. You’re out of stock?!? I keep checking back. You deserve my business from your vids

[@marcusvidrine7688]

Its my Jackhammer rod. Hell Ive caught largemouth on the Madbull with a DEPS 145 lol

[@BrownBaitCo]

very great rod breakdown!

[@BrownBaitCo]

you guys need to do a fishing Trivia Night at the shop sometime!

[@thehookuptackle_usa]

This would be fun

[@kylemayer8486]

I use a 6'11 med+ poison adrena most of the time, but my fenwick(before pure fishing ruined it)aetos 7'2 moderate med is the greatest spook rod I've ever used.

[@JoseMartinez-dq4km]

Great video how about a 7foot frog rod I am a shorter man

[@godshippy]

Griff cleans up nice. Nohomo

[@Roboworm99]

Excellent 🤙🏼

[@fishon131313]

Y'all forgot the P5 cyclone for the popmax.

[@thehookuptackle_usa]

Didn't forget it - it's a dope one! Just didn't want to confuse everyone 😂👍🍻

[@andrewwolf4963]

I’ll be honest boys, topwater for me use to be specific to Heavy powered or Medium powered depending on what it is I’m throwing. But I tried out a MH jig rod with a frog and a whopper plopper in a pinch one day and my hook up ratio soared but I also use my Jerkbait rod for dog walking baits I like my 6’10 Poison Adrena for that or my 6’8 Expride

[@arnemueller2112]

Well done!

[@thehookuptackle_usa]

Thank you for watching!

[@brianlee9074]

So a Diablo Spec-R for buzz baits, and the Perfect Pitch for frogs? (Levante) Making an anniversary list for the wife to buy a few new toys.

[@nicholasgursoy1114]

1v1 baby!!

[@akersnl]

The Mad Bull has to be one of the best rods ever made. I wish I could have 10 of them.

[@thehookuptackle_usa]

Me too. I think I'm up top 8 now 😂

[@nflisrigged1395]

At 21:00 know why , extra fast action . Wanted to tell you my rods , I'm 5'10 ... One spinning, a Ike abu finesse series 7'4 medium light 💜 4lbs - 12lbs 3/32 to 1/2 drop shot rod , love it , rest are casting rods ..... 7'3 Dobbins Fury Magheavy extra fast action 💚 12-25 lbs 3/8 to 1 1/2 7'0 Megabass Levante flatside special medium 💙 8-20lbs 1/4 to 3/4 7'0 "All glass skeet reese rod s-glass crankbait rod medium fast action 💛 10-20lbs 1/4 to 3/4 And a 6'4 abu Ike delay series meduim moderate action short butt section , top water rod, and jerkbait , it's strong for 6'4 💜 6-14lbs 1/4 to 5/8

[@brianwilson4184]

Good video guys , I’m my like Griff when it comes to throwing a walking bait . Switch between 6 10” and 7” Med action with a fast tip. Works well for me and tossing my 40 year old Heddon Zara’s . Ben are you still thinking about that big fish you lost yesterday ? 😖😖🥺 Glad to see you in the video Griff. I’ll be passing thru Phoenix soon , I’ll stop by and check some tackle out.

[@thehookuptackle_usa]

We look forward to having you in! And yes, the big ones that get away never leave my head 🍻

[@josephjohnston2847]

When is the next podcast?

[@_bassadd1ct_]

I probably think more like Ben in terms of bait specific gear, but since my pockets are fairly empty I’ve gotta take more of a Griff approach 🤣🤣🤣

[@thehookuptackle_usa]

👍🍻

[@raymondjohnson6496]

Griff said he has seven rods are they all the same if they are different what’s the name of them please thanks 🙏

[@MattWood-kz7ek]

Did the popper 1v1 ever happen?

[@joshguthrie8142]

Best whopper 130 plopper rod?

[@thehookuptackle_usa]

Madbull.

[@ReactionGiants]

Could the killer code handle the kaera frog? Or is it more of a treble rod??

[@zaneburt9592]

🍿 let’s see the 1v1

[@thehookuptackle_usa]

👊🍻

[@dontdoxmebro1780]

Surprised the carbon head eliminator wasn’t mentioned. What other types of baits do you feel the killer code excels with?

[@craigbundy]

For Frogs, what are your thoughts on the Diablo Type L and the White Python?

[@rahimi420fr]

Any recommendation for topwater walking bait 2 oz up

[@reelbassreviews3481]

Y’all missed a legendary one. The blade is sick at walking a full sized vixen. It’s honestly the absolutely perfect rod for me for the application. It is the best feeling rod for the situation. Try it instead of the madbull. It’s worth it

[@thehookuptackle_usa]

I'll try it!

[@daichi6076]

This video is great and so timely for me! I’ve been considering purchase of Levante jerkbait rod for topwater and jerkbait. Does Griff use a mono line? I’m personally down for a braided line(30lb + 20lb mono leader), but am concerned about that the fast taper rod + braided line is so stiff that it may not absorb the strikes enough... FYI I majorly use 3/8 - 3/4 jerkbait and topwater.

[@jamesh7469]

I feel like people don’t realize that a buzz bait and a chatter bait basically function the same as far as the hookset is concerned. Both are open jig hooked moving baits where the hook is in line with your line. Just let it load up and lean into them

[@dontdoxmebro1780]

Not exactly the same because a buzzbait you are tied to the wire which has some give versus directly tied to the head of the bladed jig.

[@t.a.4702]

I have the madbull but the Steez being 7'2 to me is too long to walk with for a me since i am 5'10.

[@thehookuptackle_usa]

👍🍻

[@bruuuce78]

What lines do you guys prefer for poppers and walkers?

[@kolczatr337]

What rod you guys recommended for megadog?

[@thehookuptackle_usa]

The Blackjack or casino

[@jameschoi6412]

What kind of line does Griff have on his jerkbait special for his too water baits?

[@jasoncook5520]

I grabbed a lilypad survivor from you guys last year. What baits would you consider to throw with it?

[@hunterbull7804]

Hear me out. Power Pitch/Perfect Pitch for 1 oz plugs

[@gstixfishing9746]

Yeeeeeeeep

[@pewpewrn7565]

This translates to English… yes!

[@mikehauck5832]

I am putting my Orions 🍻 on ice. Let's get the show started 👀 1V1 😁

[@thehookuptackle_usa]

😂🍻

[@monstblitz]

Did I miss wakebaits somewhere in there? I've been half listening at work, and went back through but didn't see it. I've been using the Mat Bucker, that I originally bought for frogging but tied a wakebait on it one day and never took it off.

[@monstblitz]

Unless wakebaits don't technically count as topwater, which I'm realizing now they might not!

[@thehookuptackle_usa]

No, we figured it needed it's own episode. We'll do that shortly!

[@monstblitz]

@@thehookuptackle_usa can’t wait!

[@shadybanks8625]

Where would the old Otomat fit in?

[@thehookuptackle_usa]

That would be an alternative to the jerk bait special rod.

[@scott151]

PLOPPER ROD? I know it's technically a buzz, but it deserves it's own category. What happened?

[@thehookuptackle_usa]

Madbull

[@thehookuptackle_usa]

Or the 7'2" Medium Steez

[@ronswinford4952]

What Daiwa reel would you guys recommend for BFS?

[@thehookuptackle_usa]

Steez Air

[@pvwj]

MB F7 EMTF

[@thehookuptackle_usa]

Another great one!

[@jasscarborough]

Is it just me or does Griff look like he just baked out his car before the video

[@irod7]

I don't have to downsize 😭😭😂😂😂

[@VernonTwins]

Ok Ben. I’m a boozy MF too. You flew through this a little to fast. I’m old old school but I still out-fish most of my younger challengers. I bought both the left and right hand Arms 7208 rods. I have not made my mind up what Boozy reel I’m going to put on them. So what did you end up putting on your Arms 7208 ? I was thinkING about the Antares DC Monster Drive XG on the right handed one. Also top water prop baits was not mentioned. Smithwick Devils horse. Mike V

[@thehookuptackle_usa]

I put an SLP Zillion 9 on my 7208. If I had to choose a reel now to put on it it would be the JDM Zillion HD. Antares MD is pretty big.

[@deliciouspeanut6572]

Not to be a jerk but it’s “bougie/boujee” not boozy. Though with that Orion…..

[@ship4427]

Should have let jeff step in and tell us what he uses for rats.

[@figueroa2191]

She also says he has an extra 2” and it doesn’t matter but she’s lying 😂😂

[@thehookuptackle_usa]

👍🍻

[@nickcosta88]

🤙🏼🍻🤙🏼

[@thehookuptackle_usa]

Here’s my friend 🍻

[@TerpDerp]

I want to smoke up with Griff