The Best Fishing Lure for Bass, Bream and Whiting | Fishing with the Jackson Pygmy Popper Lure

Unlock the Secrets of Bass, Bream and Whiting Fishing with the Jackson Pygmy Popper 

When it comes to topwater fishing for Australia’s estuary legends—Bass, Bream, and Whiting—the Jackson Pygmy Popper is an indispensable lure. This surface popper, crafted for precision and packed with lifelike action, is ideal for these light-tackle favourites. With its compact build and ability to mimic small baitfish and prawns, the Pygmy Popper is the perfect match for our target species. Here’s a comprehensive, in-depth guide on using this lure to land Bass, Bream, and Whiting, including expert techniques and prime locations.

The Jackson Pygmy Popper: Perfect for Bass, Bream and Whiting 

The Jackson Pygmy Popper excels in calm, shallow waters, where it stirs up just enough surface commotion to attract fish without spooking them. Its unique popping action, combined with subtle splashes, simulates a struggling baitfish or insect. This topwater lure is crafted to trigger natural predatory instincts, drawing explosive strikes from Bass, Bream, and Whiting in estuaries, tidal flats, and freshwater creeks across Australia. 

Key Features of the Jackson Pygmy Popper: 

1. Controlled Surface Action: Designed to create an ideal popping sound, this lure’s action mimics distressed prey, ideal for drawing in ambush predators. Sitting at a 45-degree angle, its surface disturbance when pulled is calibrated to attract fish in both clear and murky conditions.  
2. Compact and Lightweight Design: With a size that doesn’t overpower light tackle, this popper is ideal for targeting shallow water dwellers without the risk of spooking them. 
3. Natural Colour Range: The Pygmy Popper’s realistic design and subtle colour options mimic common baitfish in Australian estuaries, improving your odds of landing a strike. 

"The Jackson Pygmy Popper in ‘clear’ or ‘natural olive’ is my ultimate go-to lure when I’m out on the water chasing some fun and action. Its versatility is unmatched, making it perfect for targeting ambush predators like flathead. Just don’t forget to upgrade your leader for the best results!" 
– Graham Herbert, Tackle World Moruya 

Tactics for Each Target Species 

1. Bass: The Estuary Powerhouse 

Australian Bass are known for their aggressive strikes and love of structure, making them an exciting challenge. These fish are often found in areas with submerged timber, rock formations, and undercut banks, particularly in the upper reaches of freshwater rivers and estuaries. 

• Best Time to Fish: Australian Bass are most active in the warmer months, especially during dawn and dusk. Early mornings and late afternoons provide the low-light conditions they prefer. 

• Ideal Retrieval Techniques: Start with a slow, steady retrieve, adding short pauses to let the Pygmy Popper settle on the surface. This mimics an injured baitfish, tempting Bass into striking. Alternatively, try a “walk-the-dog” technique for an erratic side-to-side action, imitating a fleeing prey. 

• Best Locations: Near submerged structure and overhanging trees. Around rocky banks and fallen trees. Deep pools. 

• Recommended Setup: For Bass, use a medium spinning rod paired with an 8-12lb braid and a 12-20lb fluorocarbon leader. This setup offers the strength to handle their explosive strikes, and the control needed to pull them away from snags. 
• Pro Tip: Cast close to cover, such as overhanging branches and sunken logs. Australian Bass are ambush predators and strike hard when an opportunity arises. 

2. Bream: The Cautious but Curious Feeder 

Bream are notorious for being picky and cautious, making a light, finesse approach essential. These fish prefer tidal estuaries, river mouths, and structures such as oyster beds, jetties, and mangroves. With a slower approach, the Jackson Pygmy Popper can be irresistible to a wary Bream. 

• Best Time to Fish: Bream are more active during low-light conditions in the early morning or late afternoon, but they also feed actively on overcast days. 

• Ideal Retrieval Techniques: A subtle, slow retrieve with pauses is the key to catching Bream. Let the popper sit after each pop to create ripples, simulating an easy meal. This technique entices the cautious Bream to move in for a closer look. 

• Best Locations: Near jetties and bridges, particularly at dawn. Around mangrove edges and submerged structure. Tidal flats and oyster racks that attract large schools. 

• Recommended Setup: Opt for ultra-light tackle with a 4-6lb line and a lighter fluorocarbon leader (6-8lb). This setup minimizes resistance, keeping the presentation subtle and natural, crucial for enticing Bream. 

3. Whiting: The Topwater Chaser 

Whiting are among the most exciting fish to catch on the surface. Found in sandy flats, shallow estuaries, and tidal pools, these fish are keen on topwater lures like the Pygmy Popper. They’re particularly attracted to the quick, fleeing action of this lure. 

• Best Time to Fish: The best time to target Whiting is on a rising tide, particularly in summer when they are more likely to move into the shallow flats to feed. 

• Ideal Retrieval Techniques: Whiting prefers a quick, consistent retrieve. Keep the Pygmy Popper moving across the surface to create a subtle “V” wake that mimics a fleeing shrimp or prawn. The lure’s action often entices Whiting to follow and strike. 

• Best Locations: Near tidal flats and sandbanks. Topwater during high tide. Vast sand flats especially in summer. 

• Recommended Setup: Use light tackle with a 6lb braid and a 6-8lb fluorocarbon leader. This setup provides excellent control for casting across shallow flats where Whiting are likely to be feeding. 
• Pro Tip: Focus on shallow sand flats with sparse seagrass beds. Whiting move into these areas to feed as the tide rises, making them prime targets. 

Advanced Techniques with the Jackson Pygmy Popper 

The Pygmy Popper’s performance hinges on retrieval style and environmental adaptation. Here’s how to fine-tune your approach based on water clarity and fish behaviour: 

• Walk-the-Dog for Bass: This technique creates a zigzagging movement across the surface, ideal for provoking territorial strikes from Bass, especially in clear water where they can see the full action of the lure. 

• Pause-and-Pop for Bream: Use a light pop followed by a longer pause. This subtle approach mimics an injured baitfish and is especially effective in clear waters where Bream might be cautious. 

• Constant Retrieve for Whiting: Whiting are drawn to a continuous movement across the surface, particularly in sandy, clear flats. A quick, steady retrieve creates a tantalizing “V” wake that mimics a skittering shrimp or prawn. 

Tackle Tips for Surface Success 

• Fluorocarbon Leaders: Low-visibility fluorocarbon leaders are essential in Australia’s clear estuary waters, especially for Bream and Whiting, which can spook easily. Adjust leader thickness according to the target species and water clarity. 

• Light Rods for Precision: For the best results, use a fast-action, light rod. This provides the precision needed to control the Pygmy Popper’s subtle movements and place it accurately around structure. 

• Colour Selection: Choose colours based on water conditions. Brighter colours perform well in murky water, while natural colours work best in clear water. Natural colours often attract cautious fish like Bream in pristine conditions. 

Conservation Note: Catch, Release, and Sustain 

Australian estuaries are unique and delicate ecosystems, and practicing sustainable fishing is essential for preserving fish populations. Handle fish gently, keep them in the water as much as possible, and release promptly if you’re not keeping your catch. Always check local regulations for size and bag limits, particularly for Bass, Bream, and Whiting, as these can vary by region. 

Final Thoughts: Embrace the Thrill of Topwater Fishing with the Jackson Pygmy Popper 

The Jackson Pygmy Popper is your go-to lure for light-tackle adventures in Australian estuaries. Its lifelike action, precision control, and versatile design make it a top choice for anglers seeking Bass, Bream, and Whiting. With the right retrieval techniques, gear, and location insights, you’re primed for unforgettable fishing moments. So, grab a Pygmy Popper at your local Tackle World, head to your favourite estuary or river, and prepare to experience the excitement of fish strikes like never before!