So I noticed that whenever I use a topwater (Popper or frog), I start with a slow retrieve and end up speeding it up after a couple of pops. I think it's cause of my impatience so I've been trying to not do that. But what are your opinions? Is it something I should or shouldn't try to do? I should be consistent for that one, whole retrieve?

 

Basically, after casting, I'd wait [5 sec] pop [5 sec] pop [5 sec] pop [2 sec] pop [2 sec] etc.

Rarely use a steady cadence and always experimenting with changes of cadence to determine what triggers strikes. Everyday and often every hour cadence or pace changes.

Tom

 

I second what WRB said. Keep changing it up until you find what works.

 

A spook for instance, as a general rule if I'm on smallmouth water I use a steady walk unless it's not working. Largemouth I pause the bait more.

Switch the cadence up. The longer/shorter pauses or quicker pops could be the difference in getting a strike or not.