First Impressions of Strike King KVD Pipsqueak Popping Perch
Topwater fishing, especially for bass lurking in heavy cover, demands a specialized set of tools and techniques. The Strike King KVD Pipsqueak Popping Perch aims to be one of those tools, offering a unique profile and action designed to entice even the most finicky fish. Its perch-like profile and ability to both pop and walk make it interesting.
I was looking for a weedless topwater lure that could effectively mimic a perch, a common forage fish in my local waters, and trigger aggressive strikes from bass hiding in thick vegetation. I was also hoping to find something that offered a different presentation than the standard frogs and buzzbaits I typically use.
Upon unboxing the Strike King KVD Pipsqueak Popping Perch, I immediately noticed the realistic perch shape and the quality of the paint job. The lure felt solid, and the double hook seemed robust enough to handle hard-fighting bass.
Compared to other hollow body frogs and swimbaits I own, the Strike King KVD Pipsqueak Popping Perch stood out due to its unique perch profile. Other lures I considered were the Spro Bronzeye Frog and the Zoom Horny Toad. I chose the Strike King KVD Pipsqueak Popping Perch because I thought the perch imitation would give me an edge in my local pressured waters.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The lure looked great, but I was eager to see how it would perform on the water and whether the collapsible body would truly translate to better hookups.
Real-World Testing: Putting Strike King KVD Pipsqueak Popping Perch to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Strike King KVD Pipsqueak Popping Perch on a local lake known for its heavy weed growth and healthy bass population. The lake also has a large population of perch. I primarily fished it around lily pads, submerged timber, and along weed lines.
The lure performed well in calm conditions, producing a nice popping sound and walking action. However, in slightly choppy water, the 5″ length made it a bit harder to control and maintain a consistent retrieve. It moved through the weeds without any issue. I didn’t get any bites on the first outing, but the action was promising.
The Strike King KVD Pipsqueak Popping Perch proved to be relatively easy to use, although it took a few casts to get the hang of the popping and walking retrieve. I had no major issues during my first time using it, but I did notice that the lure seemed to collect a lot of algae and debris, requiring frequent cleaning.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Strike King KVD Pipsqueak Popping Perch, I can confidently say it’s a durable and reliable lure. The big strong double hook has held up well to numerous fish and snags.
I have noticed some minor wear and tear on the paint job, particularly around the hook slots and belly, but nothing that significantly impacts its performance. Cleaning is relatively easy; I simply rinse it with water after each use and occasionally use a soft brush to remove stubborn debris. I’ve been fishing it for two months now.
Compared to my experiences with other hollow body lures, the Strike King KVD Pipsqueak Popping Perch holds its own in terms of durability and action. While it may not be quite as weedless as some dedicated frog lures, its unique profile and popping action make it a valuable addition to my tackle box. The ability to fish it anywhere is certainly true.
Breaking Down the Features of Strike King KVD Pipsqueak Popping Perch
Specifications
The Strike King KVD Pipsqueak Popping Perch is a hollow body topwater lure designed to mimic a perch. It is made by Strike King.
It weighs approximately 1/3 oz and is 5 inches in length, making it a good size for attracting larger bass. The lure comes in a quantity of one.
The 5-inch length provides a substantial profile in the water, attracting attention. The 1/3oz weight allows for easy casting with most standard baitcasting setups.
Performance & Functionality
The Strike King KVD Pipsqueak Popping Perch excels at attracting bass in heavy cover and open water. Its ability to pop, walk, and skip across the surface makes it a versatile lure for various fishing situations.
One of the lure’s strengths is its realistic perch profile, which can be particularly effective in waters where perch are a primary forage fish. However, its relatively light weight can make it challenging to cast accurately in windy conditions. It certainly meets my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Strike King KVD Pipsqueak Popping Perch features a weedless design that allows it to be fished effectively in and around vegetation. The collapsible body is designed to improve hookup ratios, while the big strong double hook ensures solid hooksets.
The build quality is good, with durable materials and a realistic paint job. The lure feels comfortable to use, and the weedless design minimizes snags and hang-ups. There is minimal learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Strike King KVD Pipsqueak Popping Perch should last for several seasons of fishing. The durable materials and solid construction help it withstand the rigors of fishing in heavy cover.
Maintenance is simple: rinse with water after each use and occasionally check the hook for sharpness. This keeps it going for longer. Replace the hook if it becomes damaged or dull.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Strike King KVD Pipsqueak Popping Perch does not come with any specific accessories. However, anglers can customize it by adding rattles inside the body or trimming the skirt to alter its action.
While it’s primarily designed to be used as is, its standard size and hook configuration mean it’s compatible with various aftermarket hooks and weights. This allows anglers to fine-tune the lure to their specific preferences. The hook is sharp so I haven’t felt the need to replace it.
Pros and Cons of Strike King KVD Pipsqueak Popping Perch
Pros
- Realistic perch profile attracts bass in waters where perch are a common forage fish.
- Versatile action allows for popping, walking, and skipping retrieves.
- Weedless design allows for fishing in heavy cover without snagging.
- Durable construction ensures the lure can withstand the rigors of fishing.
- Collapsible body improves hookup ratios.
Cons
- Relatively light weight can make it challenging to cast in windy conditions.
- Paint job can be susceptible to wear and tear over time.
Who Should Buy Strike King KVD Pipsqueak Popping Perch?
The Strike King KVD Pipsqueak Popping Perch is perfect for anglers targeting bass in waters with heavy vegetation and a healthy perch population. It’s a great choice for both experienced and beginner anglers looking for a versatile and effective topwater lure.
Anglers who primarily fish in open water or prefer lures with a more aggressive action may want to skip this product. If the predominant forage in your area is not perch, then it might be less effective.
Must-have accessories would include a quality baitcasting rod and reel spooled with braided line for optimal casting and hooksets. A pair of fishing pliers for removing hooks and treble hook covers for safe storage are also recommended.
Conclusion on Strike King KVD Pipsqueak Popping Perch
The Strike King KVD Pipsqueak Popping Perch is a well-designed and effective topwater lure that offers a unique profile and action. It can trigger strikes from bass in a variety of fishing situations.
At a price of $13.99, the Strike King KVD Pipsqueak Popping Perch offers good value for its performance and durability. The price is justified.
I would personally recommend the Strike King KVD Pipsqueak Popping Perch to any angler looking for a versatile and effective topwater lure, particularly those fishing waters with a strong perch population. Give it a try, and you might just land your next trophy bass!