Frogs are probably my biggest fishing passion. I'm super obsessive about what I keep and when I throw what. That said, there are some basics that apply to all aspects of heavy cover hollow frog fishing.
3 main colors:
White or grey, black and a natural green/brown. People can throw anything I like and I do have a bunch of wild colored frogs that produce, but you don't *really* need much more than a couple options you're comfortable with.
Two main types: walking retrieve and chugging retrieve.
The main examples of this are the "normal" skirted leg frog which is the most popular and walks easily, and then there are the natural leg offerings such as the Lunker Frog or the Savage frog. These won't walk no matter what you do (so don't get mad they aren't walking) but they do offer a very realistic action and profile that does get hit. Both have their use so I suggest at least one of each.
Two main faces: Poppers and points
Most basically, poppers are for making a ton of noise while not really moving much and the pointed faces are for using the wiggle of the walk to attract and cover much more ground. I use the poppers when it's a little colder as they will be far more effective at working a small area and calling in aggressive, non-spooky fish. The pointers I sneak in all over and surprise attack more or less.
Two main imitations: Frogs and mice
I use both extensively. Skirted "frogs" generally have two skirt legs and "mice" usually have one central tail, and are usually longer and more slender. This may not seem like much but some days it makes all the difference in the world. I seriously suggest not overlooking the mouse/rat imitator. LiveTarget makes a good basic version.
I feel like I could write a book about all the observations I've made and tested, customizing I've done etc. but I am never done learning just as the industry is ever-innovating. I will save the dissertation for another day though, as those basic things above should help you discern some basic presentations and options you may want to have without being too confusing. I skipped right over equipment because that wasn't the question, but it's by far the most important factor in successful frog fishing- that's another story though this will be more than enough to get you started, and you'll find your own comfort zone by then anyways. Just do yourself a favor and get a bottle of Mend-It though. Every hollow frog fisherman NEEDS that.
