Killer Bug 23 – The Top Water Secret for Trout Area

The Killer Bug 23 enjoys the reputation of being the "first lure" designed for trout area fishing, created by the japanese brand Evergreen. This crankbait is a small top water lure with a wide action, which varies from surface of water to immediately under the surface. Due to its special shape and lip, the lure generates small waves that attract a wide variety of trout. In addition, the reduced buoyancy contributes to a higher hook-up rate, even in the case of weaker attacks, such as light pecking at the lure.  

Trout fishing with top water lures is a unique experience, as the attacks can be both violent, full of adrenaline, and delicate when the lure is gently picked off the water surface. And the most interesting thing is that all this happens under the angler's eyes, which makes this technique extremely appreciated by enthusiasts. Until the warmer months come, when surface fishing becomes more effective, let's discuss a little about techniques and what makes the Killer Bug 23 so special. 

When the lure hits the water surface it produces a characteristic sound similar to that of a bug falling on the water surface. This sound/vibration attracts the attention of trout, especially if they are in the upper water area. The first technique requires a little patience: you have to wait 2-3 seconds after the lure hits the water, and in this short interval, there is a high chance that the trout will attack the lure. If nothing happens slowly retrieve and repeat the process. The key to success is finding a perfect balance between the lure's stationary time on the surface and the slowly retrieve. 

The second technique involves holding the rod in a vertical position and reeling the lure slowly. This movement creates fine waves on the water surface, and if you gently shake the rod tip, the lure will look like an insect struggling on the surface. These movements can be interrupted by small pauses of 1-2 seconds. The angler's creativity plays an important role when it comes to animating the lure on the surface. This technique is especially recommended when trout are active on the surface or when they are used to being fed with floating pellets. 

For both techniques it is essential to use a fast action rod, which gives you the necessary control over the lure and the jerky movements characteristic of surface fishing. The Artisan Competition AATS-62MH/R or AATS-60MLST/F rods are the ideal choice to fully exploit the potential of the Killer Bug 23. In the second part of the article I will discuss technical details such as the length, weight and specific characteristics of this lure.

The Killer Bug 23 has a length of 23mm and a weight of only 1.3g, making it one of the lightest lures for surface fishing. Near the center of the lure is a small weight, which gives it a deep draft and low buoyancy and this weight also helps to increase the casting distance.

The lure is equipped with an EG barbless hook size 6 and a split ring size 1. This combination contributes significantly to a higher hook-up rate, compared to other hook and split ring configurations. 

The color palette of the Killer Bug 23 is extremely varied offering no less than 10 different colors, each designed to respond to the various conditions we encounter on the water's edge.  

Until next time, Tight lines!