Best Shad Topwater Lures of 2025

Luke Dobson Avatar
Luke Dobson
Last Updated: 6 Feb 2025

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For anglers looking to catch fish in open water, the Shad Topwater Lures are a must-have. These lures are designed to mimic the movement and appearance of real shad, a popular prey for many types of fish. With their realistic colour patterns and lifelike swimming action, these lures can attract a variety of fish species, including bass, pike, and musky. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced angler, the Shad Topwater Lures can help you improve your fishing game and increase your chances of catching more fish.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Rebel Lures Pop-R Topwater Fishing Lure, Foxy Shad Cover #TOP 1
Rebel Lures Pop-R Topwater Fishing Lure, Foxy Shad
ftb score rating icon 9.8
momolures Z-PATH Topwater Pencil Bait Lure Cover #TOP 2
momolures Z-PATH Topwater Pencil Bait Lure
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Heddon Super Spook Topwater Fishing Lure Cover #TOP 3
Heddon Super Spook Topwater Fishing Lure
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Shad Topwater Lures

Rebel Lures Pop-R Topwater Fishing Lure, Foxy Shad

Rebel
POPR
Foxy Shad
7.62 cm
Rebel Lures Pop-R Topwater Fishing Lure, Foxy Shad Cover
Rebel Lures Pop-R Topwater Popper Fishing Lure, Foxy Shad, Magnum Pop-R (1/2 oz), One Size, 3"

The Rebel Pop-R Lure is designed for all freshwater game fish, making it a versatile choice for anglers. Its topwater diving depth allows you to target fish at the surface, where they are most active. You can use a cast and retrieve technique with this lure, which mimics erratic bait movements that entice fish. For optimal performance, it is recommended to use an 8-10 lb test line with a double loop knot, ensuring a secure connection during your fishing adventures.

What We Like
Versatile for all freshwater fish
Effective topwater action
Easy to use technique
Secure connection recommended
#TOP 2

momolures Z-PATH Topwater Pencil Bait Lure

RB SHAD
momolures Z-PATH Topwater Pencil Bait Lure Cover
momolures - Z-PATH topwater pencil bait lure for Saltwater Bass fishing game (RB SHAD)

The momolures Z-PATH Lure is designed for effective saltwater bass fishing. Its 100mm size and 21g weight make it easy to handle, ensuring optimal casting and retrieval. You will appreciate the easy table turn zig-zag dog-walk action, which attracts fish with its realistic movement. The unique wide head shake enhances its appeal underwater, increasing your chances of a catch. Plus, it comes in a variety of vibrant colours, catering to all your fishing needs.

What We Like
Effective saltwater use
Realistic action
Wide colour variety
Easy to handle
#TOP 3

Heddon Super Spook Topwater Fishing Lure

Heddon
X923610
Flitter Shad
Heddon Super Spook Topwater Fishing Lure Cover
Heddon Super Spook Topwater Fishing Lure for Saltwater and Freshwater, Flitter Shad, (1/2 oz)

The Heddon Super Spook is an exceptional topwater fishing lure designed for both saltwater and freshwater fishing. It features two super-sharp hooks that ensure a solid catch, particularly for aggressive species like schooled striper. The lure's versatile hardware system is built to withstand the toughest conditions, giving you confidence on the water. Made from strong and durable materials, it not only looks good but also performs well. At a manageable size of 3 1/2 inches and 1/2 oz, it is perfect for topwater fishing.

What We Like
Super-sharp hooks for better catch
Durable construction for longevity
Versatile for various fishing conditions
Effective size for topwater action
#TOP 4

Strike King KVD Sexy Dawg Topwater Lure

HCKVDSD-514
5/8 oz
Strike King KVD Sexy Dawg Topwater Lure Cover
Strike King (HCKVDSD-514) KVD Sexy Dawg Fishing Lure, 514 - Chrome Sexy Shad, 5/8 oz, Premium Topwater Lure

The Strike King Sexy Dawg is a premium topwater lure designed to enhance your fishing experience. Weighing 5/8 oz and measuring 4.5 inches, it is ideal for attracting fish with its realistic movement. The lure features free floating rattles, which create enticing sounds in the water, making it easier for you to catch the attention of nearby fish. Its topwater design allows for exciting surface action, giving you a thrilling fishing experience. This lure is perfect for both novice and seasoned anglers looking to improve their catch rate.

What We Like
Realistic movement in water
Free floating rattles for attraction
Ideal weight for casting
Exciting surface action
Suitable for all anglers
#TOP 5

Heddon Zara Spook Topwater Fishing Lure

Heddon
X9225SS
Flitter Shad
7.62 cm
Heddon Zara Spook Topwater Fishing Lure Cover
Heddon Zara Spook Topwater Fishing Lure - Legendary Walk-The-Dog Lure, Flitter Shad, Zara Puppy (1/4 oz), 3-Inch

The Zara Spook Lure by Heddon is designed for the walk-the-dog fishing technique, making it perfect for attracting fish at the surface. Its unique action draws fish from a distance, increasing your chances of an explosive strike. This topwater bait is particularly effective whether fish are suspended or feeding at the surface. With a double hook design, it ensures a secure catch, allowing you to enjoy your fishing experience with confidence.

What We Like
Effective walk-the-dog technique
Attracts fish from long distances
Double hook for secure catches
Lightweight and easy to use
#TOP 6

Heddon Super Spook Topwater Fishing Lure

Heddon
X9236HLFS
Lake Fork Shad
Heddon Super Spook Topwater Fishing Lure Cover
Heddon Super Spook Topwater Fishing Lure for Saltwater and Freshwater, Lake Fork Shad, (1/2 oz)

The Heddon Super Spook is designed for both saltwater and freshwater fishing, making it a versatile choice for anglers. With its two super-sharp hooks, you can expect reliable strikes, especially from aggressive species like striper. The lure's sturdy hardware system ensures it can handle the toughest fish, providing you with confidence during your fishing trips. Its strong and durable material not only looks good but also promises explosive results on the water, enhancing your overall fishing experience.

What We Like
Super-sharp hooks for better strikes
Durable and strong construction
Versatile for different species
Effective topwater fishing size
Simulates wounded baitfish action
#TOP 7

Heddon Zara Spook Topwater Fishing Lure

Heddon
X9255SS
Flitter Shad
4 1/2 Inches
Heddon Zara Spook Topwater Fishing Lure Cover
Heddon Zara Spook Topwater Fishing Lure - Legendary Walk-The-Dog Lure, Flitter Shad, Zara Spook (3/4 oz)

The Zara Spook Lure is designed for the walk-the-dog fishing technique, which helps you attract fish on the water's surface. Its unique action can entice fish from a distance, prompting exciting strikes that enhance your fishing experience. This topwater bait is equipped with a double hook design, providing you with a more secure catch. With dimensions of 4 1/2 inches and a weight of 3/4 oz, the Zara Spook Lure is a robust choice for anglers looking to improve their chances on the water.

What We Like
Effective walk-the-dog action
Attracts fish from distance
Double hook for secure catches
Compact and lightweight design
#TOP 8

Strike King KVD Sexy Dawg Junior Fishing Lure

HCKVDSDJR-590
590 - Sexy Shad
Strike King KVD Sexy Dawg Junior Fishing Lure Cover
Strike King (HCKVDSDJR-590) KVD Sexy Dawg Junior Fishing Lure, 590 - Sexy Shad, 3/8 oz, Premium Topwater Lure

The Strike King Sexy Dawg Junior is a premium topwater lure designed to enhance your fishing experience. Featuring realistic 3D eyes, this lure mimics the appearance of live prey, making it more enticing for fish. Weighing in at 3/8oz, it is easy to cast, allowing you to reach your desired fishing spots effortlessly. This topwater lure is perfect for creating exciting surface action, giving you the thrill of catching fish that strike at the surface. Try this lure for an effective addition to your tackle box.

What We Like
Realistic 3D eyes
Easy to cast
Premium topwater design
Attractive surface action
#TOP 9

Berkley Cane Walker Topwater Fishing Lure

BERKLEY
BHBCW110-CJS
CJ Shad
110mm - 5/7 oz
Berkley Cane Walker Topwater Fishing Lure Cover
Berkley Cane Walker Topwater Fishing Lure, CJ Shad, 5/7 oz, 110mm Topwater, Heavy Tail Weight for Long-Distance Casting, Equipped with Fusion19 Hook

The Berkley Cane Walker is a topwater fishing lure that creates significant surface disturbance, making it an excellent choice for attracting fish. Its enticing side-to-side action requires minimal effort from you, while the aggressive sound and rattles enhance its appeal. The lightly cupped face ensures noisy water splashes to draw in bass, and the dressed rear treble adds both bulk and a captivating tail action. With its sharp Fusion19 hooks, you can expect easy penetration and strong holding ability during the toughest fights.

What We Like
Effective surface disturbance
Minimal effort for enticing action
Noisy splashes attract bass
Sharp hooks for better catches
#TOP 10

Strike King KVD Sexy Dawg Topwater Lure

HCKVDSD-699
699 - Natural Shad
5/8 oz
Strike King KVD Sexy Dawg Topwater Lure Cover
Strike King (HCKVDSD-699 KVD Sexy Dawg Fishing Lure, 699 - Natural Shad, 5/8 oz, Premium Topwater Lure

The Strike King Sexy Dawg is a premium topwater lure designed to enhance your fishing experience. Weighing 5/8 oz, it is easy to cast, allowing you to reach those hard-to-reach spots with precision. At 4.5 inches in length, it mimics the natural movement of fish, making it more appealing to your catch. Additionally, the free-floating rattles create enticing sounds in the water, drawing fish towards your line. With this lure, you can boost your chances of a successful fishing trip.

What We Like
Effective topwater fishing
Easy to cast
Realistic fish movement
Attractive sounds
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are shad lures good for?

The quivering, undulating tails give them an alluring motion and send out vibrations that add an auditory appeal to lure a fish to strike. Plus, they also work year-round, in both cold weather conditions and on brutally hot summer days. No wonder soft plastic shad lures are one of the most effective baits you can use.

2. What is the best color for a topwater lure?

Color matters, just not as much. Topwater lures are obviously fished on the surface so fish won't be able to see most of the lure, just the underside. And since most fish have white bellies, topwater lures with white bellies are typically the best choice.

3. What fish bite topwater lures?

Bass aren't the only fish that can be caught on a surface lure. Pike are notorious for vicious topwater strikes. Trout, walleyes and even catfish will hit a lure on the surface under the right conditions.

Editor's Notes

During our shad topwater lure research, we found 306 shad topwater lure products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 26,497 customer reviews through our big data system to write the shad topwater lures list. We found that most customers choose shad topwater lures with an average price of £14.63.

The shad topwater lures are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of shad topwater lures, including Rebel, momolures, Heddon, Strike King, BERKLEY.

Written by
Luke Dobson Avatar

Luke is a runner, a climber, hiker, hunter, and a lot more. Luke Dobson is Celtic-born and has lived most of his life in Scotland. However, his sporting endeavours have taken him to several countries around Europe. He serves as a tour guide for countless companies and owns a couple of gyms and recreational centres in Scotland. Luke Dobson is proficient in 7 different languages. He maintains many sport article columns where he shares his wealth of experience in the sport industry.