First Impressions of Googan Squad Expload Toad Soft Bait
The Googan Squad Expload Toad Soft Bait is Googan Squad’s entry into the buzzing soft plastic toad market. It promises explosive topwater action with a slow, enticing retrieve. I was intrigued by the patented flange design, boasting superior water displacement, and eager to see if it lived up to the hype.
My fishing style leans heavily on targeting bass in heavy cover. I’m always searching for lures that can trigger reaction strikes. I hoped the Expload Toad would be just that: a weedless wonder that could draw bass out of the thickest vegetation.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the supple plastic. The texture felt right, suggesting good hook penetration, and the flange design looked aggressive, promising a lot of surface disturbance. Each Expload Toad measured right at 4 inches, as advertised, and the colors were vibrant.
Compared to other buzz toads I’ve used, like the Zoom Horny Toad and the Strike King Rage Tail Toad, the Googan Squad version seemed to prioritize a slower retrieve speed. This could be a game-changer in pressured waters. I was excited to tie one on and see if the Expload Toad delivered on its promise of explosive action. I was hoping for a toad that performs, and looks, the part.
Real-World Testing: Putting Googan Squad Expload Toad Soft Bait to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Googan Squad Expload Toad Soft Bait was at a local lake known for its heavy vegetation and shallow, weedy flats. I rigged it weedless on a 4/0 EWG hook with a pegged bullet weight. The weight helped me cast it further and keep it down in the thick stuff.
The Expload Toad performed admirably in the spotty grass I was targeting. It created a significant buzzing sound and visible surface disturbance, even at a relatively slow retrieve. I landed two decent bass within the first hour, both ambushing the toad from underneath submerged vegetation.
Initially, I had some trouble getting the hook set consistently. I quickly adjusted my technique to allow the fish to take the bait a little longer before setting the hook. This proved effective, and my hook-up ratio improved drastically.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Googan Squad Expload Toad Soft Bait has held up surprisingly well. The plastic is durable, and I haven’t experienced any tearing or ripping, even after catching multiple fish on the same bait. I’ve fished them in various water conditions, from clear to muddy, and the color holds up great.
The only wear and tear I’ve noticed is some slight fading of the colors on the top. The Expload Toad remains effective even with the cosmetic wear. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a quick rinse with water after each use.
In comparison to my previous go-to toads, the Expload Toad offers a unique combination of slow retrieve speed and aggressive buzzing action. It has definitely earned a permanent spot in my tackle box. It is a serious contender in my arsenal now.
Breaking Down the Features of Googan Squad Expload Toad Soft Bait
Specifications
The Googan Squad Expload Toad Soft Bait comes with the following specifications:
- Manufacturer: Googan Squad
- Lure Type: Soft Bait
- Quantity: 8 per pack
- Length: 4 inches
- Hook Type: Weedless
These specs translate to a versatile bait suitable for various fishing conditions. The 4-inch length is ideal for attracting both smaller and larger bass. The weedless design allows anglers to fish in heavy cover without constantly getting snagged.
Performance & Functionality
The Expload Toad excels at its primary function: creating topwater commotion. Its patented flange design causes significant water displacement, attracting bass from a distance. The slow retrieve speed allows anglers to keep the bait in the strike zone longer.
The bait’s strength lies in its ability to trigger reaction strikes from bass hiding in heavy cover. However, some anglers may find the hook-up ratio challenging initially. A slight adjustment in technique, such as allowing the fish to take the bait longer, resolves this issue. This may take time to get used to.
The Expload Toad meets expectations as a high-quality, topwater buzz frog. It provides a unique action that differentiates it from other baits on the market. It does take time to learn the best technique to optimize its effectiveness.
Design & Ergonomics
The Expload Toad is constructed from a soft, yet durable, plastic material. This provides a realistic feel for the fish and ensures good hook penetration. The bait is lightweight and easy to cast, even on lighter tackle.
The Expload Toad is designed for easy rigging. Its weedless design makes it simple to fish in heavy cover without getting snagged. No special tools or techniques are required.
Durability & Maintenance
The Googan Squad Expload Toad Soft Bait is surprisingly durable for a soft plastic bait. It can withstand multiple fish catches without tearing or ripping. Proper storage will prolong its lifespan.
Cleaning is simple, requiring only a quick rinse with water after each use. There are no specific maintenance requirements.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Googan Squad Expload Toad Soft Bait doesn’t come with any specific accessories. However, it can be customized with various hooks and weights. Anglers can experiment with different sizes and styles of EWG hooks to find the perfect match for their fishing conditions.
The Expload Toad is compatible with various brands of hooks and weights. This provides anglers with a wide range of customization options.
Pros and Cons of Googan Squad Expload Toad Soft Bait
Pros
- Unique Flange Design: Creates significant surface disturbance, attracting bass from a distance.
- Slow Retrieve Speed: Allows anglers to keep the bait in the strike zone longer, ideal for pressured waters.
- Durable Plastic: Withstands multiple fish catches without tearing or ripping, extending the bait’s lifespan.
- Weedless Design: Enables fishing in heavy cover without getting snagged, increasing versatility.
- Vibrant Colors: Visually appealing to both anglers and fish, enhancing its effectiveness.
Cons
- Hook-Up Ratio: May require some adjustment in technique to improve hook-up rates.
- Color Fading: Colors may fade slightly after extended use, although performance isn’t affected.
Who Should Buy Googan Squad Expload Toad Soft Bait?
The Googan Squad Expload Toad Soft Bait is perfect for anglers who enjoy topwater fishing, particularly in heavy cover. It is a great choice for those targeting bass in weed-choked lakes and ponds. It can be extremely effective in clear or murky water.
Anglers who prefer a faster retrieve might find this bait less appealing. It is designed for a slower presentation. If you like speed, you may be better suited using other toads.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality EWG hook in sizes 3/0 to 5/0. Anglers may also want to experiment with different bullet weights to fine-tune the bait’s action and casting distance.
Conclusion on Googan Squad Expload Toad Soft Bait
The Googan Squad Expload Toad Soft Bait is a well-designed and effective topwater lure. It offers a unique combination of slow retrieve speed and aggressive buzzing action. It definitely stands out in a crowded market.
At $5.99 for a pack of 8, the price is justified by its performance and durability. The Expload Toad offers excellent value for money. It will also last longer than cheaper options due to the durability of the plastic.
I would personally recommend the Googan Squad Expload Toad Soft Bait to any angler looking for a versatile and effective topwater lure. If you want to trigger explosive strikes from bass hiding in heavy cover, give it a try! Grab a pack and get ready for some serious topwater action.