Top water rod

[Crankinstein]

My fishing buddy is a topwater guy and for ten years he would kick my butt when they were bitting on top. About five years ago I took every rod I had and spent a week trying them out, my concern was not could I work bait correctly but could I get the fish in. I found my set up. This may or may not work for you. I use a 7' mh rod that has a slow tip. It is a old loomis G2. I use 15lb big game or 17-20lb reg mono. I can cast a mile and seldom loose a fish. It bends so much that when a fish jumps it will always be loaded. It took a while to get use to because you dont feel you get a good hook set, but it has changed topwater fishing for me. I also use bow wax on the first 5' of my line to keep the line up out of the water. A loop knot will help with the walking action, but is not a requirement. Hope this helps and remember everybody is different. My buddy could use a broom stick and yarn and wack them but not me.

[stoner]

Popping and walking baits I like something with a little play in the tip and the old pistol grip makes it easy for working. Buzz baits and frogs I like a heavier longer rod with braid. I don't see any point in investing big $ in any top water rod though.
Jmo