Whopper Plopper Question

[Preytorien]

Here's a question for you guys who have more experience with the R2S Whopper Plopper

 

I'm using the 90 series, tied onto 30lb braid.

 

It seems like more often than not I have problems with actually getting the prop to start up. I've tried varying retrieve speeds, but I usually have to give it a jerk to get the prop moving. By that time, I've burnt up about 3-4ft of good water that might have a bass under it. 

 

Is there some trick to the WP that I don't know? Any way to get the prop starting up easier?

[CTGalloway21]

Did you change hooks out?  Most should start immediately.  I figured if you switched to a heavier hook, it would weigh it down more.  

[Bluebasser86]

Start reeling as soon as it hits the water. If you let it settle then the tail (prop), will sink below the surface and take a minute to get going. It works with the bigger one.

[Preytorien]

Both good ideas, I'll have to try that. Sometimes I'll let it sit a second or two before reeling. 

[gulfcaptain]

I had to swap hooks, then figure out the size combo plus added a small quality swivel to keep it from rolling and twisting my braid up as well.  Being at work though, have to get back home first and I'll send you a PM about the configuration I used but finally got it to where it sits right and doesn't want to role on retrieve.  Oh and I either start my retrieve the minute it hits the water or let it sit.  Then give it a quick pull.  And if you use straight braid, put a little bit of fly dry floatant on the braid up about 12".  Helps pop it up quicker after it sits and also works great with hollow belly frogs too.

[Mike L]

As with all bladed top waters I high stick, start reeling then lower the rod.

It'll get it up quick and leave it there.

But be prepared because you won't be in a position to immediately tighten up.

Mike

[PAGreg]

Mike nailed it: point your rod tip to the sky to get it started and lower the tip as it gets closer to the boat.

[gardnerjigman]

Start reeling as soon as it hits the water. If you let it settle then the tail (prop), will sink below the surface and take a minute to get going. It works with the bigger one.

 

Yup, I start reeling right before it hits the water and it's churning water immediately. 

[gulfcaptain]

Had a picture of one of the fish I had on the 90 size, swapped hooks on both, put a #4 KVD 2X Short 1X Strong EWG on the front hook and a #6 on the back. Sits nicely in the water and more level as opposed to the back end sinking down.  Also helps keep the bait from rolling being balanced like that.  

[Starchalopakis]

I have been hearing a lot about this bait lately! All of the aqueduct fishermen around here have been doing real good on stripers with that bad boy!

[lo n slo]

the local tackle shops around here are selling out of them as soon as they come in

[RyneB]

I have caught my fair share of bass on it, but it is a pike MAGNET

[Bluebasser86]

My favorite part is how hard they hit these things!